Assignment #3 – Concept Selection (Pugh Matrix)

A Pugh matrix is mean to help structure and represent an evaluation procedure to help in decision making and weighing possible alternatives. While it is not meant to be a an Automatic decision making process, it can be extremely beneficial in helping to choose possible alternatives that should be considered. What will we do?

Your small business (or your household) needs a new Wireless internet system (e.g. Modem, Wireless Router, etc.). Select at least two Modems & at least three Routers to create at least 6 combinations. Select a set of features that are important for YOU. Create a Pugh Matrix to help you decide which combination your small business – or household – should choose based on your needs. Why are we doing this?

Pugh matrices, invented by Stuart Pugh, are qualitative technique used to rank the multi-dimensional options of an option set. It is frequently used in engineering for making design decisions. The advantage of the decision-making matrix is that it encourages self-reflection amongst the members of a design team to analyze each candidate with a minimized bias (for team members can be biased towards certain designs, such as their own).

Learning Objectives

This assignment makes use of multiple course objectives

  • Describe Systems Engineering Standards and Best Practices
  • Structure key steps in the SE processes from stakeholder analysis to transition of systems to operations