Cost Modeling Interoperability and Integration

Since 2000, PRICE Systems has invested over $7.9 million of our own money in the research and development of a new cost modeling framework. This framework is an open architecture which allows easier integration of cost models to other modeling environments. The intent is to develop one framework where a system can be modeled throughout its entire lifecycle. We call this methodology Affordability Simulation. The vision is to have one user interface where the system can be modeled. Through that interface, software, hardware, support, obsolescence, and any other aspect of the program can be modeled. Users would include the early designers, the program office, the implementers and logistic support teams. This requires not only a technical change, but a cultural change as well. Proven capability will help change the culture. With the funding from this OSD/DLA SBIR, PRICE Systems will expand our initial framework to include the ability to propagate the cost models through the life cycle of a program.