Unlocking the Future of Systems Engineering

In this special episode for Molomo African Tech Stories podcast, we sat down with Dr. Michael Jastram, a systems engineering expert, entrepreneur, and founder of Formal Mind. We explored his personal journey, the role of openness in engineering, and how Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) is changing the way we build complex products.

From Naval Architect to Systems Engineering Advocate

Michael’s journey into the world of systems engineering started in a rather unexpected place: the naval architecture world. As a trained ocean engineer, he learned how to build ships—a type of product that inherently combines multiple engineering domains such as hydraulics, electronics, and mechanical systems. This holistic view laid a solid foundation for his eventual deep dive into systems engineering, which focuses on coordinating complex projects involving multiple, interconnected parts.

He transitioned into software engineering during the early boom of the tech industry and later completed a PhD in requirements modeling, which involves formally defining what a system must do before it's built. This research ultimately led to the launch of his company, Formal Mind.

Why Sharing Knowledge Matters

Michael highlights the influence of the software development culture on his open approach to systems engineering. In software, once code is written, it can be shared freely with almost no cost. This idea of open platforms—like GitHub—has accelerated innovation by allowing collaboration and transparency.

He believes the systems engineering world could learn a lot from this openness, especially as products become more complex. The good news? Some tools in the traditionally hardware-heavy world are now starting to embrace openness. For instance, Onshape, a parametric computer-aided design (CAD) tool, offers a free version for users who keep their designs public, echoing GitHub’s early model.

“Openness doesn’t mean free,” Michael notes. “But by sharing, you create opportunities for collaboration, learning, and ultimately stronger solutions.”

What Is MBSE (Model-Based Systems Engineering)?

One of the most illuminating parts of the conversation was Michael’s explanation of MBSE—a transformative methodology that’s growing in importance across industries.

MBSE stands for Model-Based Systems Engineering. Let’s break that down:

• Systems Engineering: A discipline focused on managing complex engineering projects by coordinating requirements, design, implementation, and verification activities. It became formalized during the 1960s space race to manage rocket development.

• V-Model: A common framework in systems engineering that visually represents how different development phases align with corresponding testing phases. It creates traceability between requirements, design, implementation, and verification.

• Model-Based: Refers to the use of formal models (instead of documents) to represent system requirements, design, and behavior. These models allow for automation, simulation, and early validation—greatly increasing development speed and reducing error.

MBSE replaces traditional document-based methods with structured digital models, making it possible to manage complexity and scale across teams and disciplines.

Formal Mind: Why Formally Modeling Systems Matters

Michael's company, Formal Mind, is based on the belief that formal modeling is essential for mastering complexity in today’s products—like autonomous drones, self-driving cars, and networked industrial systems.

He explains the difference between complicated and complex systems:

• Complicated systems are deterministic—predictable and structured.

• Complex systems are dynamic, often non-deterministic, with many loosely interacting parts.

In such complex environments, informal documentation fails. You need precise, formal structures to ensure consistency, safety, and traceability.

Tooling vs. Mindset: What Really Drives Change

When asked about how tools can support startups and established companies, Michael emphasized that while tools are helpful, mindset is the real challenge.

Many organizations resist change due to internal silos or fear of exposing intellectual property (IP). Yet, he believes progress comes when leaders understand the value of cross-functional collaboration and the long-term benefits of openness.

“Tools are a puzzle piece—but the bigger issue is people and culture.”

He also advocates for the rise of startups as drivers of change. Unlike legacy companies, startups can question the status quo and experiment with new approaches, including MBSE.

The Role of AI in Systems Engineering

Looking ahead, Michael shares a balanced view on Artificial Intelligence (AI) in engineering. He cautions against placing AI at the center of the development process.

Instead, he proposes that teams ask: “Where are the bottlenecks in product development, and how can AI help?”

For example, AI can serve as a modeling assistant—helping engineers generate diagrams, validate requirements, or perform simulations more efficiently. It can also make MBSE more accessible, especially for beginners intimidated by its complexity.

But AI should augment human decision-making—not replace it.

Key Takeaways for Innovators and Startups

• Start with the problem, not the technology: Use MBSE and AI to solve specific challenges in your product development workflow.

• Don’t fear openness: Sharing non-sensitive knowledge can accelerate innovation and collaboration.

• Invest in formal modeling: As complexity grows, informal documentation becomes a liability.

• Change requires mindset, not just tools: Culture and leadership are key to adopting systems thinking.

• Startups have a unique role: They are more agile and better positioned to question outdated engineering practices.

Final Thoughts

Dr. Michael Jastram's insights remind us that engineering is as much about people, culture, and philosophy as it is about technology. As Africa and the rest of the world navigate the challenges of building intelligent, connected systems, the principles of systems thinking, openness, and model-based engineering offer powerful tools for the journey ahead.

Want to learn more about MBSE, systems thinking, and how startups can lead in this space?

Stay tuned for more episodes of MoloMolo African Tech Stories.