Problems are commonly experienced at interfaces, especially internal, thus to carry out this role the computer systems engineers need to closely scrutinize subsystem-to-subsystem interfaces. While these engineers are trying so hard to design subsystems that will work they also have to keep an eye on each subsystem so that it does not interfere with the others. In order to avoid such problems, computer systems engineers need to posses a wide experience, have relevant and useful knowledge of the domain, and have the interest of learning continuously (Sheared 1996). Due to the broad viewpoint possessed by computer systems engineers there are is a tendency of companies asking them to coordinate groups and help in the resolution of systems issues with the aim of achieving consensus or making recommendations among divided participants. However, this role is not usually permanent it may be transitory, solution of a specific problem, or coordination of a team or discipline (Sheared 1996). This role requires that in addition to the professional capability, a computer systems engineer should be able to facilitate groups and help them develop their own leadership skills and working norms which makes this role a bit different from the rest.

Ethical issues

The entire profession of engineering does not adhere to a single standard of ethical conduct; this varies relative to the discipline and jurisdiction (Harris 2009). Computer systems engineers who work in the manufacturing industry adhere to various laws such as product liability laws and whistleblowing laws which are less of engineering ethics and more of business ethics. Such laws monitor the conduct of engineers with regard to the community, colleagues, and clients and employers. According to the Code of Ethics observed by the institution of engineers in Australia, engineers have to practice their profession with the interest of the community...

Thus, engineers should apply their sound engineering judgment considering their prior experiences and relevant analysis to come up with generally accepted practices (Code of ethics 2000). When computer system engineers do not adhere to this simple principle then they may interfere with the health and safety, and welfare of the community and the environment at large.
Computer systems engineers may be employed or be hired to perform their roles in the manufacturing industry, in either case they are required to serve their clients or employers with utmost loyalty and embrace fairness and good faith in applying their knowledge and skills. This includes offering any relevant advice and accord confidentiality wherever and whenever necessary as dictated by their clients or employers. However, an exception in the loyalty may arise when the actions in question threatened the well-being of the community (Code of ethics, 2000). It is also common to find engineers sharing knowledge and skills thus it is important that they treat each other with respect and fairness. Whenever an engineer acts in a manner that favors his position at the expense of a colleague or unfairly criticizes his colleague then problems are bound to arise within the industry as this is against common ethics.

Reference list

Alford, R.S. 1988. Computer systems engineering management, Marcel Dekker Inc., New York.

Harris, E.C. 2009. Engineering ethics: Concepts and cases (4th ed.), Cengage Learning, Canada.

Kossiakoff, A. & Sweet, W.N. 2003. Systems engineering principles and practice, John Wiley & Sons, Hoboken, New Jersey.

Sheared, S.A. 1996. Twelve systems engineering roles, accessed 18 July 2010

Tatum, M. 2003. What is a computer systems engineer? accessed on 18 July 2010

The Institution of Engineers, Australia, 2000. Code of ethics 2000.