What is the primary goal of the integration process in systems engineering?

The primary goal of the integration process in systems engineering is to combine system elements into a realized system. This involves taking various components, subsystems, or modules and ensuring they work together as a cohesive unit. Integration encompasses aligning and coordinating the different elements to achieve the desired functionality and performance of the overall system. This process is critical because it verifies that all parts interact correctly and meet the specified requirements.

Successful integration allows for the identification of potential issues related to interoperability and compatibility among system components early in the development process. By focusing on combining the elements effectively, systems engineering helps ensure that the final product operates as intended and fulfills the stakeholders' needs. Ultimately, this is about creating a synergistic effect where the whole system performs better than the sum of its parts.