Product Assurance Readiness Decision Aide

As weapon system development dollars become scarce, it is imperative that decision makers understand the traditional cost vs performance trades as well as concept maturity and production risks. The objective of this program is to demonstrate the feasibility of a product assurance decision aide that supports the collection of manufacturing lessons learned and synthesizes product assurance data into a “readiness level.” The decision aide also provides insight into “best-value” trade-offs, enabling program mangers to confirm resources are being channeled into the most beneficial projects. This innovative approach will combine new data collection methodologies with existing software technology, to build an effective decision support application. This system supports Six Sigma transformation within the Army—driving acquisition teams towards higher performance via continuous process improvement. Advanced technology and innovative processes that link new approaches with existing systems will be used to create a comprehensive, Product Assurance Decision Aide—capturing experiences and ensuring lessons learned are tagged and factored into product assurance levels. The Phase I program will solidify the Phase II requirements by having selected Army analysts interact with the product assurance decision aide. The Phase II program will fully develop a prototype tool and validate its operation and use concept.