ABSTRACT
Complex projects like the development of commercial aircraĞ require the management of an enormous amount of data and information. Experience over many decades has proven that the use of structured architectures, that is, systems of interlinked modules, provides significant support to the management of a project. This is because architectures allow for an organised collection and sharing of business and technical information related to a project and product.1 As E. Rechtin expresses it: ‘The essence of systems is relationships, interfaces, form, fit and function. The essence of architecting is structuring, simplification, compromise and balance.’2 Architectures also allow for a graphical representation of project aspects, thus capturing the imagination of the people’s mind and easing communication.
