What is the optimum level of Systems Engineering (SE) on a program?

The optimum level of Systems Engineering (SE) applied to a program is commonly recognized to be around 14%. This percentage reflects a balanced approach to integrating SE practices throughout the lifecycle of a system, ensuring that the complexities and interdependencies inherent to systems are adequately managed.

Investing in SE at this level helps to ensure that the systems are designed with a thorough understanding of user requirements while being mindful of constraints such as time, cost, and resources. This level of investment tends to support effective risk management, improved communication among stakeholders, and a higher likelihood of meeting project objectives and mission success.

The number indicates a lean yet effective integration of SE processes, which aligns with best practices and standards in the field. Overly low levels may lead to insufficient oversight and misalignment with stakeholder needs, while excessively high levels could introduce unnecessary bureaucracy and inflate costs. Thus, 14% serves as a practical benchmark that has been derived from industry experience and empirical data, aiming to strike a balance between efficiency and effectiveness in SE practices.