Key Features:
--Includes a wide range of topics covering the fundamentals and practice applications of probability and statistics (including advanced topics on statistical analysis, testing and interpretation of engineering data), microeconomics, engineering economics, hard systems (such as linear programming, decision analysis, CPM, LOB and PERT), soft systems analysis (such as Checkland's method), and sustainable development and sustainability applications in engineering planning
--Avoids the abstract mathematical approach usually found in textbooks on this subject, in favor of one that is geared to practical engineering applications Integrates the power of quantitative analysis, in a very concrete way, with the conceptual richness of economics and systems thinking to deal with engineering problems
--Examples and end-of-chapter exercises drives home the fact that answers to problems need not be merely “optimal” solutions, but must include value tradeoffs and lend themselves to an enriched decision-making process, most suitable for applications in an uncertain world.
--Numerous open-ended, real-world problems are included. Includes a unique chapter on "systems thinking"—a first of its kind in a textbook on systems engineering. It covers the most recent soft systems structuring methods available in dealing with complexity, uncertainty, and conflict. A new case-studies chapter applying soft systems methods is also included.
--Contains two new chapters—one on sustainable development, sustainability, engineering and planning; and the other on case studies dealing with engineering and planning for sustainability.
--WAV material includes a solutions manual for those exercise problems that require numerical solutions — available from the Web Added Value™ Download Resource Center at www.jrosspub.com