Software Technology Readiness Assessments - Managing Technology Risks in Space System Acquisitions

Abstract

Technology Readiness Assessment (TRA) is an important factor in the milestone decisions of the defense acquisition system. The Department of Defense (DOD) offers substantial direction on assessing hardware technologies in its TRA Deskbook. However, with respect to software, particularly software used in space systems, the guidance has proven to be weak and ambiguous. The objective of this report is to offer tangible guidance on establishing Technology Readiness Levels (TRLs) for space software and provide further insights into all dimensions of technology risk mitigation. To illustrate key points, a comparison of technology risk management within conunercial, market-driven companies versus currently codified risk management methods of the defense acquisition community is provided.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Jun 16, 2008
Accession Number
ADA484614

Entities

People

  • Peter Hantos

Organizations

  • The Aerospace Corporation

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Cyber
  • Space

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Acquisition
  • Algorithms
  • Application Software
  • Commerce
  • Computer Programming
  • Computers
  • Engineering
  • Failure Mode And Effect Analysis
  • Graphical User Interface
  • Manufacturing
  • Military Acquisition
  • National Security
  • Product Development
  • Risk Management
  • Software Development
  • Space Systems
  • Test And Evaluation

Readers

  • Defense Acquisition Program Management
  • Military Science and Technology Research and Modernization.
  • Software Engineering.

Technology Areas

  • Space