A Model Based System Architecture Methodology Leveraging the ARCADIA Method

System Architecture, its derived requirements and decision analysis performed, are often attributed to defining 70% of the cost and capabilities of a system. However, after nearly two decades of Model Based Systems Engineering (MBSE), there is a lack of architecture focused methodologies and tools to aid programs in creating a robust, transdisciplinary system architecture. One notable exception is the Thales developed Architecture Analysis and Design Integrated Approach (ARCADIA) method. The ARCADIA Architecture Development Method (ADM) provides instance-based methodologies for each ADM step with rich viewpoints and views to ensure a robust architecture is obtained. As the goal of the proposed methodology is to rapidly create a robust, transdisciplinary system architecture, ARCADIA was selected for its native alignment with this goal. However, the ARCADIA method is like a framework and requires a defined methodology to be applied to it to determine what views, and in what order, constitutes the desired architectural model. The proposed methodology defined these elements based on alignment with the IEEE 15288:2015 architecture standard, and to further the goals of ease of learning, rapid modeling, and reduced modeler workload/errors. In addition, the proposed methodology adds multiple supplemental views into the system model to add context and ensure a transdisciplinary architecture is realized. The proposed methodology also stresses the integration of decision analysis and requirements derivation into all ADM steps to ensure a complete architecture is realized prior to the development phase. Some basic qualitative findings from a partial test of the proposed methodology are described herein. A larger quantitative comparison between the proposed methodology and other MBSE standards is planned for Fall 2023.