An integrated cost and performance model to inform capability
selection during early-phase systems engineering: Case analysis and
multi-objective optimization
Affiliations: Primary Correspondent, 25 Innsbrook Ct, Stafford, VA, USA | Department of Engineering Management and Systems
Engineering, School of Engineering and Applied Science, The George Washington
University, Washington, DC, USA
Note: [] Corresponding author: Edward M. DeVilliers, Primary
Correspondent, 25 Innsbrook Ct, Stafford, VA 22556, USA. Tel.: +1 540 207 4439;
Fax: +1 877 230 7198; E-mail: [email protected]
Abstract: Functionality and performance have been key elements of requirements
generation for major systems, especially within the Department of Defense
(DoD). However, rising cost growth rates and decreasing funding have led to
legislation requiring DoD to factor cost into requirements selection and to
keep within cost estimates much earlier in a system's life cycle. This paper
presents a framework that supports a combined cost and performance estimation
model. It provides a greater emphasis on cost to assess the impact of specific
requirements selection for major hardware/software systems. This model is used
within a synthesized process derived from new cases within DoD. It also uses
Multi-Objective Optimization (MOO), specifically physical programming, as a
means to better define and assess the optimal selection of capabilities in the
requirements generation phase rather than the design phase. The result is a
repeatable, analytical process and model that can be used throughout a system's
life cycle.
Keywords: Development planning, cost estimation, cost growth causes, framework, multi-objective optimization, physical programming, linear physical programming, case studies, defense acquisition, system dynamics
