System architecture evaluation by single metric

Abstract

System architecture is driven by numerous upstream influences. Regulations, market forces, cultural biases, and a variety of other influences can significantly affect whether architecture is successful or not. To be successful the architect must include upstream influences in the design. Few if any architectural methods are available to systematically account for upstream influences. A new method, Evaluation by a Single Metric (ESM), is presented. It is based on fundamental design principles. It enhances the system architectural process by organizing upstream influences that drive architecture. The ESM method is concept independent and used before concept focused system architectural methods. Specifically, system boundaries, salient upstream elements. and functional connections thereof are systematically determined. The ESM process provides a concept neutral framework used to evaluate candidate architectural concepts. The ESM method is very general. It can be used for the design of nearly any kind of system or process. The thesis makes extensive use of a diverse set of examples which highlight ESM advantages and flexibility.