Life Cycle Model
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Life Cycle Model
The Life cycle model is one of two methodical concepts that build the basis for system engineering. Next to the Problem-Solving concept, which deals with the challenge of developing solutions for project management challenges, the Life Cycle Model aims to structure the life of an engineering system. The model divides the life cycle in four phases, which include development, realisation, utilisation and disposal. Each phase is structured by a distinct a set of criteria, purpose and expected results. This allows for evaluation of the technical systems according to their current life cycle phase.
Historic Background
The Life Cycle Model can not be clearly attributed to a single author (ref Bonnal). A range of similar models have been presented by A Guide to the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK® Guide) (PMI Standards Committee 1996) and the Project Management Handbook (Cleland & King, 1988). This articel is based on the work of Rainer Züst and Peter Troxler (ref), who propose the use of the Life Cycle Model in a Systems Engineering Context.
The Life Cycle Phases
Development Phase
Realisation Phase
Utilisation Phase
Disposal Phase
LCM example
maybe integrated in phases
Alternate Use of Life Cycle Models
Life Cycle Models are usually featuring similar phases as described above, but their use-context differs and serve different perspectives. Following examples make use of the Life Cycle Model but are not directly connected to Systems Engineering.
- Life Cycle Model in a sustainability context. It creates the basis for Life Cycle Sustainability Assessments and Life Cycle Management. Does include the stage of material extraction and is focussed on environment, business and social impacts of a product system (ref 3).
- Product Life Cycle. The life cycle from a business point of view. May include issues such as innovation diffusion, maturity of product/market (ref 2)
References:
how do I make those work?
1. Züst, Rainer, and Peter Troxler. “No More Muddling Through: Mastering Complex Projects In Engineering and Management”. No More Muddling Through: Mastering Complex Projects in Engineering and Management (2006): 1-185. Web. 2. Klepper, S. (1996). Entry, exit, growth, and innovation over the product life cycle. AMERICAN ECONOMIC REVIEW, 86(3), 562-583. 3. UNEP-SETAC. Towards Life Cycle Sustainability Assessment. 2011 4. Bonnal, Pierre, Didier Gourc, and Germain Lacoste. “The Life Cycle of Technical Projects.”. Project Management Journal 33.1 (2002): 12. Print.
