Developing a model that supports the evolution of legacy systems into an enterprise

This article details the first step in the system dynamics analysis of the systems engineering process for the evolution of legacy systems into an enterprise. This step develops a model that depicts the interaction of the various components associated with the system of interest. This model is a collection of causal loop diagrams that will foster the development of a novel framework known as the enterprise lifecycle model, which will support system dynamics analysis through three stages: planning, development, and execution. Peer‐reviewed academic and industry sources will be utilized to understand how accepted literature defines this analysis. Specifically, this model will be based on the Vee lifecycle model as well as the Agile and Iron Triangle frameworks. Supplemental elements will be added to these diagrams to incorporate the environment within which the system of interest is planned, developed, and executed. Additional factors, such as quality management, will be added to complete the super system and system of interest views of the enterprise lifecycle model—with the goal of creating a model depicting a reductive and holistic view that aids in the reduction of complexity surrounding the systems engineering process used to prepare legacy systems for evolution into an enterprise and support the definition of the desired target system.