Measurement of Cost Effectiveness as a Result of the Use of Training Devices/Simulators

Many methods & procedures have been used to predict the value or worth of training systems. However, there is currently no method available relating the effectiveness of the simulator/device to any cost savings to the government. Current models require an exhaustive task analysis and are not able to assess cost-effectiveness at concept formulation, due to the lack of detailed system information. This project describes the development of a methodology to assess the cost effectiveness of device/simulators as surrogates for the actual weapon system at concept formulation. The objective of the phase I effort is to develop a methodology and model framework that will allow simulator costs and training effectiveness to be estimated at concept formulation. In addition, this framework will allow estimation of the effectiveness and cost of training on actual equipment ( an area that has largely been ignored in the past); A number of cost and effectiveness models will be developed. These models will be useful to other research outside the scope of this effort.