Content area
Abstract
The goal of this thesis is to expand the research on human decision-making in engineering systems by exploring qualitative data collection methods utilized in systems engineering. Analyses are performed to identify differences in qualitative data collection method use across the life cycle and throughout technical processes. 495 sources were evaluated for qualitative data collection method use identified from systems engineering literature and analyzed using statistical analyses. Of these, 93 sources utilized data collection methods of documentary analysis, narratives, focus groups, observations, and interviews which traced across every life cycle phase and most technical processes. The findings show there are significant relationships between qualitative data collection method and both life cycle phase and technical process. By exploring the contemporary use of qualitative research methods in systems engineering contexts, researchers and practitioners gain a better understanding for expanding that use to enable a more human-centered design approach to complex systems.
