How to Define Design in Industrial Control and Automation Software

TL;DR

This paper reviews and challenges existing definitions of design in industrial control and automation software, aiming to establish a scientific foundation for better decision-making and innovation.

Contribution

It critically examines current design definitions, integrates design theory, and discusses systematic versus ad-hoc approaches in iCAS development.

Findings

Identifies gaps in the scientific understanding of design in iCAS

Proposes a framework for systematic design approaches

Highlights the importance of balancing operational and evolutionary concerns

Abstract

Design is a fundamental aspect of engineering, enabling the creation of products, systems, and organizations to meet societal and/or business needs. However, the absence of a scientific foundation in design often results in subjective decision-making, reducing both efficiency and innovation. This challenge is particularly evident in the software industry and, by extension, in the domain of industrial control and automation systems (iCAS). In this study, first we review the existing design definitions within the software industry, challenge prevailing misconceptions about design, review design definition in the field of design theory and address key questions such as: When does design begin? How can design be defined scientifically? What constitutes good design? and the difference between design and design language by relying on advancements in the field of design theory. We also evaluate the distinction between ad-hoc and systematic design approaches, and present arguments on how to balance complementary operational concerns while resolving conflicting evolutionary concerns.