During several zooms in the past year, I've asked the question: which fictional character would make the best systems engineer? I think most have interpreted this as, "Who is the smartest fictional character you have seen?" or, "If you were a superhero, which would you be?" The most popular responses - coming independently from multiple sessions - were Iron Man and Sherlock Holmes.

These characters are smart, just like us! More significantly, they look at more than just one subsystem or perspective. Whether they are building hardware or breaking apart a web of deceit, they are considering more than just the question at hand. 

What other fictional characters exhibit the characteristics of good systems engineers? Consider using this as part of introductions at your next INCOSE gathering. Or, stay tuned for our next icebreaker question.