Planning for Change With A Holistic View of the System

Abstract

The example of obsolescence which perhaps comes most readily to mind is that of electronic components that are no longer available. However, this is just a special case of the more general form of obsolescence that arises when a system no longer provides an adequate solution to a user's problem. This may arise because the problem has changed or because the solution (the system) has, in some way. In practice, both the problem and solution are changing continuously and asynchronously. The approach to obsolescence management proposed here depends on recognizing and planning for this change. In essence, it involves looking forward to how the demands on the system and the technology that provides its capability may both change. Simulation is a crucial tool in doing this. In the light of the understanding of expected changes, the design of the current system is arranged to facilitate transition to the modified system and a change plan is produced. This paper also looks briefly at the impact of the proposed approach on the broader system engineering activities and the commitment it requires from the system's customer.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Oct 01, 2000
Accession Number
ADP010977

Entities

People

  • Ted Dowling

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Air Platforms
  • Human Systems

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Artifacts
  • Business Administration
  • Commerce
  • Configuration Management
  • Defense Systems
  • Electronic Components
  • Engineering
  • Environment
  • Fixed Price Contracts
  • National Security
  • Obsolescence
  • Procurement
  • Resource Management
  • Risk Management
  • Simulations
  • Standards
  • Systems Engineering

Readers

  • Systems Analysis and Design

Technology Areas

  • Microelectronics