The thesis of this book is that there exists a fundamentally better approach to
dealing with complex, multi-technology, and information-intensive systems. The
approach is based on the concept of using system architecture as a rigorous,
objective, quantitative, and measurable discipline for defining, analyzing, and
building systems that employ advanced technologies. The current state-of-the-practice
in SE is a strategy called Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) that is
predicated on this principle.
In this book we describe a methodology called the Model-Based System
Architecture Process (MBSAP), which is a specific implementation of the principles
of MBSE. Our emphasis is on the practical aspects of translating user needs into
operationally effective, affordable, and supportable systems, rather than on formal
architecture theory, which is well covered in a number of existing texts, referenced
in the Bibliography. With this in mind, throughout the book we illustrate the
principles and products of MBSAP with detailed system architecture examples. For
one of these, we provide an extensive appendix showing a more complete architecture
description than is possible in the main body of the text, intending this as a template
for new architecture developments.