What do prescriptive models primarily specify about a system?

Prescriptive models primarily specify the necessary capabilities of a system. These models offer a clear and structured framework that outlines what a system must be able to accomplish to fulfill its intended purpose. They set the requirements and specify the expected functions and behaviors of the system to ensure it meets stakeholder needs.

Focusing on necessary capabilities allows systems engineers to define specific objectives and design criteria that guide the development process. This clarity is essential for effectively managing requirements and ensuring that all necessary functions are appropriately integrated within the system.

While stakeholder engagement is crucial in systems engineering to ensure that the designed system meets users' needs, it is not the primary focus of prescriptive models. Similarly, relevant technologies and emergent characteristics are important considerations in system design and analysis but are not the central aspect of what prescriptive models articulate. Prescriptive models are fundamentally about defining the "what" rather than delving into the broader context of how stakeholders interact with the system or the specific technologies that might be employed.