Army S&T Investment in Interoperability
Abstract
Requirements that Army systems be interoperable add cost to a program from its inception to manufacture and fielding. Program funding estimates from the beginning must highlight the added costs associated with meeting interoperability requirements. Most costs associated with adding interoperability can be identified through program analysis resource management methods already in use by Army PA&E. The S&T specific costs thus isolated form the basis of an evaluation of return on developmental cost invested in interoperability features. The primary quantitative metric for assessing interoperability value-added are the number of interoperable systems produced as a percent of overall Army systems interoperability requirements. This metric can be further defined in terms of interoperable capabilities for joint, multinational and interagency interoperability. A key question is, How much interoperability is enough? This is especially relevant in the multinational arena. How often and how many Army elements require interoperability with infrequent allies? In some cases the more practical solution will be to temporarily rely on tried and proven liaison teams for connectivity. The S&T decision maker must consider the concept of decreasing marginal returns when reflecting on the potential numbers of systems required and the investment in networking all echelons beyond their immediate local area needs. The cost of maintaining interoperable potential is especially salient for software systems. These systems often require regular patches and upgrades to perform as intended. When multiplied across many interface protocols, the maintenance cost can be substantial. This paper discusses the elements of assessing 'bang for bucks' with regard to S&T investment in interoperability. It intends to point to where interoperability investment offers the greatest return and to open our thinking to the possibility that universal interoperability is not a desirable or attainable goal.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 2009
- Accession Number
- ADA494634
Entities
People
- Charles L. Barry
Organizations
- National Defense University