Criteria-based comparison of Systems Engineering and Agile Methods A fundamental comparison of two development methods

This paper compares two popular design methods used in product development, namely Systems Engineering (SE) and agile methods. The comparison is based on various criteria, such as ease of implementation, object of innovation, software-dependency, customer relations, human centricity, organizational structure, values, and innovative capability, which were developed in a previous paper. The content of the comparison is supported by a literature review and a workshop with industry professionals. The findings show that both SE and agile methods have similarities and differences based on the criteria examined, and the choice of methodology depends on the project's specific context and objectives. While this paper provides only a general overview of each criterion and their compatibility, the results can assist product development teams in selecting the most appropriate approach for their needs. However, more research is necessary to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of both approaches. This paper is a useful resource for practitioners and researchers interested in understanding the similarities and differences between SE and Agile and making informed decisions regarding their use.