Professional systems engineering - the foundation of TPWS implementation success

This presentation describes the processes which laid the foundation for the success of the national TPWS implementation project. This project, which was the overall winner of the railway innovation award 2004, demonstrated that the industry can work together to implement a network wide system solution in challenging timescales. The essential elements responsible for the success are highlighted and benefits which the appropriate contracting strategy can bring are demonstrated. The early stages of the project show how the practical realisation of a system concept can be achieved in a timely fashion. The roles of the various entities involved in the project illustrate how the right players with appropriate risk apportionment and correctly aligned responsibilities tend to deliver success. The lessons learnt are discussed and recommendations given which can be applied to future projects.