An integrated cost and performance model to inform capability selection during early-phase systems engineering: Case analysis and multi-objective optimization

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.