Decision Support Technologies for Weapon System Logistics Investment Decisions

The defense procurement budget has fallen significantly from its peak, and DoD and the military services are demanding more performance for less cost. Credible engineering and logistics analysis tools and methods are needed to assess realistic benefits of proposed investments. The Logistics Composite Model (LCOM) provides an important assessment capability to ensure operations and support data from all sources can be integrated and used to understand the system performance and affordability of various logistics support options. LCOM is a very large and detailed simulation model. The complexity associated with numerous data conversion programs, input files, preprocessor programs, simulation program, temporary or intermediate files, post-processor programs, and output files leads to lost productivity and potential mistakes due to poor data management and inaccurate or incomplete configuration control. This multi-phase research will develop a PC-based capability to provide a seamless operation, configuration control, and training for LCOM analysts. The capability would increase the productivity of analysts and their assessments that are essential to logistics activities focused on improving war-readiness of operational systems. This capability will improve planning for support of new systems and help to ensure systems remain affordable throughout their lifecycle.