Model-based systems engineering (MBSE) is a systems engineering methodology that focuses on creating and exploiting domain models as the primary means of information exchange between engineers, rather than on document-based information exchange.
More recently, the focus has also started to cover aspects related to the model execution in computer simulation experiment, to further overcome the gap between the system model specification and the respective simulation software. As a consequence, the term Modeling and Simulation-based Systems Engineering (M&SBSE) has also been used along with MBSE.
The MBSE approach was popularized by INCOSE when it kicked off its MBSE Initiative in January 2007. Goals included increased productivity, by minimizing unnecessary manual transcription of concepts when coordinating the work of large teams. The MBSE approach is outlined in INCOSE's "MBSE 2020 Vision", with a methodology focusing on distributed but integrated model management.