The systems engineering and CoPS theory as management tools for information technology complex projects

Abstract

The present work deals with a case study, in order to validate the application of two theories - Complex Products and Systems (CoPS) and Systems Engineering- as modern tools for complex projects management in the Information Technology (IT) field. In particular, it is intended to show the use of those tools for the parameters definition of a big Communications Network, in the project phase. The project of the Brazilian Army Corporate Communications Network (EBNet) has been chosen as the object for the mentioned case study; one of the biggest networks of this nature in the country, an admittedly complex project. The project of the EBNet has been analyzed by the view point of Complex Systems - CoPS - and Systems Engineering theories, and we conclude by analyzing the validity of these theories as modern tools for the manager of complex projects in the IT field.