Liang Zhang, Assistant Teaching Professor
In today's fast-paced business world, leaders are constantly seeking ways
to gain a competitive edge. One critical area that has emerged as a
game-changer is the intersection of systems engineering and artificial
intelligence (AI). Teams with systems engineering expertise and a deep
understanding of AI can power organizations with the ability to tackle
complex challenges, drive innovation, and achieve sustainable growth.
Systems engineering is a cross-disciplinary approach that focuses on
designing, managing, and optimizing complex systems over their life cycles.
However, the advent of AI enables engineers to leverage machine learning
and data analytics to gain insights, make informed decisions, and predict
system behavior. This interplay allows for the design and management of
increasingly complex systems, optimizing performance and identifying
opportunities for improvement.
For businesses, integrating AI into systems engineering offers numerous
benefits. AI can significantly enhance systems engineering by automating
routine tasks, providing advanced analytics, and enabling predictive
modeling. For instance, a company might use systems engineering to optimize
their supply chain, considering factors like logistics, inventory
management, and supplier relationships; while AI algorithms can predict
demand, optimize inventory levels, and automate ordering processes,
reducing waste and ensuring timely delivery of products.
As smart cities become the example, planning and integrating various urban
systems such as transportation, utilities, and communication networks,
requiring systems engineering, can incorporate AI to automatically manage
traffic flow, monitor and reduce energy consumption, and improve public
safety through advanced surveillance and predictive analytics.
The adoption of a systems mindset, leveraging AI-driven decision-making,
and staying ahead of the curve in this rapidly evolving landscape will help
your team tackle oncoming complex challenges, fuel progress, and achieve
sustainable success. Systems engineering powered with AI expertise is not
just a smart move – it's a necessity for any business looking to thrive in
the age of AI.
Drexel Engineering trains systems engineers with the skills they need to
succeed and become industry leaders. Learn more about our master’s
program in systems engineering.