In the context of Systems Engineering, "top-down" refers to a process that begins with the entire system concept. This approach emphasizes understanding the overall system architecture and requirements before delving into the specifics of individual components. By starting from a high-level perspective, engineers can define the system's main objectives, functions, and relationships between subsystems, which guide the detailed design and development process.
This methodology helps ensure that the system's design aligns with its intended purpose and user needs, establishing a coherent framework for decomposition into lower-level components and systems. As a result, the top-down approach facilitates a structured analysis, making it easier to identify potential issues early in the design phase and ensuring all parts contribute effectively to the holistic system.