Automated, Intelligent Life-Cycle Cost Modeling

As the longevity of weapon systems continue to increase, operations and support (O&S) costs account for a larger percentage of the total system life-cycle cost. Yet O&S costs are often under estimated, especially early in the development cycle when 80% or more of the total ownership cost is "locked-in" by design decisions. Developers and planners require an approach to estimate the O&S cost impact of design changes quickly and with credibility. This includes identification of key O&S cost drivers, uncertainty, sensitivities and risk. Linking product and process models with built-in intelligence to sources of cost information will facilitate design trade-offs and help maintain a "living" cost estimate throughout the system's life cycle. This will ensure new military systems are both effective and affordable. This SBIR will enhance an existing O&S cost methodology and computer toolset that currently estimates system life-cycle costs. The existing toolset is the basis for affordability tools within several Air Force acquisition and research organizations. The Phase I program will demonstrate the feasibility of the enhanced capabilities to include seamless operation across the enterprise function and life cycle phases. The Phase II program will fully develop a prototype tool, validate its functionality, and deliver it.