A two-level process model for integrated system development

The concepts presented in this paper propose a pre-planned and integrated development process for large, complex, and possibly distributed systems-so-called “mega-systems”. A mega-system is partitioned into systems which are developed very independently but interoperate in an integrated manner to provide comprehensive functionality within an application domain, e.g. in the form of a so-called “system of systems”. To support this concept, we specify a generic systems integration framework (GenSIF) that provides an additional level of control and coordination for the otherwise independent projects. Based on this idea of a distributed but well-guided systems development effort, a process model that enacts the suggested framework and its system development philosophy is discussed. This process model is a natural extension of already-existing, more traditional development models, and allows the engineer to preserve existing know-how in this area. To support flexibility and easy adaptation, domain modeling and domain architecture design are incorporated into the proposed framework