Date of Award

3-14-2014

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science

Department

Department of Systems Engineering and Management

First Advisor

John M. Colombi, PhD.

Abstract

This research develops a deterministic interface evaluation framework (IEF) in support of the principles identified in the Modular Open Systems Approach (MOSA). Interface evaluation in weapon system development requires a Decision Analysis (DA) method capable of handling a continuously growing alternative set and functioning with limited availability of senior decision makers. Value Focused Thinking (VFT) is selected as the best method for addressing the parameters of the framework. Inputs from the Medium Altitude Unmanned Aircraft System program office are used. An initial value threshold is established to guide open interface decisions, based on assessments of 15 historical decision scenarios. Open interface recommendations for the 15 scenarios are compared to previous program decisions, where the model supports past decisions for 5 of 15 scenarios. A sensitivity analysis is then conducted to examine the robustness of the framework to changing weights for cost, schedule, and performance, and the threshold for an open implementation decision. This evaluation framework provides a repeatable method for key interface evaluation that reflects the values of DoD acquisition leadership and the Open System Joint Task Force (OSJTF).

AFIT Designator

AFIT-ENV-14-M-14

DTIC Accession Number

ADA602584

Download

Share

COinS