92: Unpacking Digital Twin Series: MBSE

In this foundational episode, we kick off a two-part conversation with renowned MBSE thought leader David Long, former president of INCOSE and long-time advocate for model-based systems engineering. Hosts Juliann Grant and Jonathan Scott explore the role MBSE plays in enabling Digital Twins, especially in early lifecycle phases, and clarify how MBSE supports—not replaces—high-fidelity simulation and engineering tools.We cover:What MBSE is and isn’t (hint: it’s not its own silo)Where MBSE fits into the Digital Twin journeyHow MBSE supports architecture across the product, factory, and enterpriseThe importance of first-order (0D/1D) models in early systems thinkingMBSE’s relationship to simulation, sustainability, and organizational designWhy the middle management layer is the key to successful adoptionDavid also introduces the idea of MBSE acting as the “connective tissue” that unifies disciplines—not a high-fidelity replacement tool, but a crucial framework for clarity, collaboration, and continuous evolution.🧰 Resources & Links Mentioned:📘 MBSE & Digital Twin Concepts:MBSE Primer (co-authored by David Long)INCOSE – International Council on Systems EngineeringDigital Twin Types: Surrogate, Shadow, and Full TwinConway’s Law – How Organizational Structure Impacts System Design🧠 Simulation, Modeling & Architecture:Functional Mock-up Interface (FMI)Virtual Twin vs. Digital Twin (Dassault Systèmes)📩 Contact & Subscribe:🎧 Subscribe to Stay Sharp in Digital Engineering on your favorite podcast platform ▶️ Watch full episodes on Razorleaf’s YouTube Channel 📬 Got questions for David Long? Send us an email at [email protected] is considered “royalty-free” and discovered on Story Blocks.Technical Podcast Support by Jon Keur at Wayfare Recording Co.© 2026 Razorleaf Corp. All Rights Reserved.