QUANTIFYING THE COSTS OF SHIPBUILDING DELAYS

This proposal presents a system dynamics model of the shipbuilding process that can be used to quantily the cost of shipyard construction delays. The system dynamics methodology models the myriad cause-and-effect relationships that define the shipbuilding process. The model, presented in clear diagramatic form, includes the complex web of feedback linkages responsible for the dynamic behavior of the ship construction process. This dynamic behavior includes the ability to replicate the "wave of disruption" that, once triggered by a delay, often seems to propagate itself far beyond its starting time (and place). Analysis of the causes for delays and their impact on system behavior will lead to discovery of effective policies and actions to limit their detrimental effect on USN ship construction costs and schedules. The simulation model will build upon the USN shipbuilding model development already accomplished under SBIR N91-147.