Abstract:
The aim of this paper is to develop conceptually from literature an improved design
influencing concept in a constrained project management environment. The project management and
systems engineering interface pertaining to project cost and schedule has been researched. Design as
part of Systems Engineering (SE) and Project Management (PM) is an important process for product
development. The interaction between SE and PM can influence the success of a product
development project. A model has been developed to better understand why design iterations are
fundamental to the design process. This model has been expanded into a constrained design
influencing model that provides a better understanding of the influence of project management in the
design process. This model shows that the project manager, particularly if he is under unrealistic
constraints, can force a premature design release for integration to the next system level. This model
helps to provide a fundamental understanding of the design process.
