Automated, Intelligent Life-Cycle Cost Modeling

DoD is continually focusing on improving weapon system affordability through the use of automated, integrated computer systems dedicated to advanced logistics and support concepts, yet current cost models for acquisition, development and operations/support are typically performed independently and often do not account for newer technologies, such as condition-based maintenance (CBM+) that will help reduce future Operating and Support (O&S) costs. Impact and Boeing Phantom Works have teamed together to develop an integrated cost simulation capability to be used during program acquisition to accurately predict weapon system life-cycle costs. This will include updated cost models at the core of the architecture with surrounding databases that will be used to automatically populate required inputs. The application will be constructed with open systems architecture to facilitate data retrieval from disparate DoD databases, and will link component cost estimates with process related effects such as differing maintenance scenario. Parametric cost estimation will be employed at early phases of development when little data is available for the new system. Additionally, Impact will leverage previously developed/validated DoD engineering based O&S cost models when simulation, test and operational data become available. The combination of parametric and engineering cost modeling will enhance cost estimation as system development progresses.