Infusion Complexity: Understanding the Need to Measure Infusion Success of Advanced Technologies into Complex Systems

Abstract

When a technology is deemed ready to be infused into a legacy or parent system, the infusion process becomes complicated and it is difficult to measure the success of that infusion. This paper concentrates on that infusion and introduces the concept of “infusion complexity.” The complexity at the interface of a new technology’s infusion into a legacy system can contribute to the success and smooth the transition of it into an integrated system. In contrast, it can create unforeseen emergent behavior and challenges in the infusion problem. Therefore, it is critical to gain deep knowledge and assess the complexity of the two complex systems’ infusion to help reveal their success or lack thereof. Because minimal written research exists involving technology infusion into complex systems, a more thorough study is needed. A literature survey was performed and sets the landscape for what has currently been accomplished. The topics researched include technology readiness and assessment, integration and system readiness, technology infusion in complex systems, engineering change, and associated research. Overall, this paper communicates the need to understand and measure the success of infusing a new or advanced technology into a complex system. This research could help project managers and system mangers integrate new technologies more effectively and efficiently.