UROP Project
Survey of MBSE Tool Usability Across Skill Levels
MBSE, SysML, Usability, Human Factors
Research Mentor: Mr Naqash Ali,
Department, College, Affiliation: Center for Advanced Power Systems, N/A
Contact Email: na22j@fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor): Mr. Matthew Bosworth
Research Assistant Supervisor Email: matt@caps.fsu.edu
Faculty Collaborators:
Faculty Collaborators Email:
Department, College, Affiliation: Center for Advanced Power Systems, N/A
Contact Email: na22j@fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor): Mr. Matthew Bosworth
Research Assistant Supervisor Email: matt@caps.fsu.edu
Faculty Collaborators:
Faculty Collaborators Email:
Looking for Research Assistants: Yes
Number of Research Assistants: 1
Relevant Majors: open to all majors
Project Location: On FSU Main Campus
Research Assistant Transportation Required: Remote or In-person: Partially Remote
Approximate Weekly Hours: 5-10, Flexible schedule (Combination of business and outside of business. TBD between student and research mentor.)
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link:
Not participating in the roundtable
Number of Research Assistants: 1
Relevant Majors: open to all majors
Project Location: On FSU Main Campus
Research Assistant Transportation Required: Remote or In-person: Partially Remote
Approximate Weekly Hours: 5-10, Flexible schedule (Combination of business and outside of business. TBD between student and research mentor.)
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link:
Not participating in the roundtable
Project Description
This project investigates the usability of MBSE tools (e.g., Cameo Enterprise Architect, SysML v2 Workbench) for novice versus expert users. By designing and distributing a structured survey, the student will collect usability feedback across different experience levels. The objectives are to (1) develop a survey instrument targeting key usability metrics, (2) analyze responses to identify strengths and weaknesses of tools, and (3) provide recommendations for tool improvement and training strategies.Research Tasks: Learn the basics of MBSE, SysML, and the tools being evaluated.
Review common methods for measuring software usability, such as the System Usability Scale.
Help write clear survey questions about ease of use, workload, learning time, and user experience.
Test the survey with a small group and use their feedback to improve it.
Set up the approved survey in Qualtrics or a similar platform.
Help recruit participants with different levels of MBSE experience.
Organize and anonymize survey responses.
Compare responses from new users and experienced users.
Use basic statistics to identify common patterns and differences.
Create charts and tables summarizing the survey results.
Help develop recommendations for improving MBSE tools and user training.
Contribute to the final report and presentation.
Skills that research assistant(s) may need: Required
Interest in software usability, engineering tools, or human factors.
Good organization and attention to detail.
Basic experience with Word, Excel, or Google Workspace.
Ability to communicate clearly and write understandable questions.
Ability to handle survey information carefully and follow research procedures.
Willingness to learn basic data analysis and survey methods.
Willingness to complete human-subjects research training if required.
Ability to work reliably with the research team.
Recommended, but not required
Coursework or interest in engineering, computer science, psychology, human factors, or data science.
Familiarity with surveys, Qualtrics, Google Forms, or similar platforms.
Experience with basic statistics, charts, or data visualization.
Familiarity with SysML, Cameo, or other engineering software.
No previous experience with MBSE tools or usability research is required; training and guidance will be provided.
Mentoring Philosophy
As a mentor, my goal is to create an environment where undergraduate researchers can confidently explore new ideas, develop technical skills, and contribute meaningfully to active research. I view mentorship as a collaborative process — students bring curiosity, fresh perspectives, and energy, while I provide guidance, resources, and structure to help them grow.I believe in balancing independence with support. Students will receive the background, tools, and initial training needed to get started, but will also be encouraged to take ownership of their work, make decisions, and learn through problem-solving. I emphasize clear communication, regular check-ins, and constructive feedback to ensure progress while maintaining flexibility for different learning styles.
My projects often combine technical research with creative problem-solving, so I encourage students to ask questions, challenge assumptions, and connect their work to real-world applications. Above all, I want students to leave the experience with not only new skills but also greater confidence in their ability to learn, adapt, and contribute in any professional or academic setting.