This paper expands system of systems (S2) engineering through the addition of rapid, top‐level engineering, in a computer‐aided environment known as Rapid Computer‐Aided System of Systems Engineering (RCASSE). This process is carried out over a nominal six month period and involves ten steps: Mission Engineering Baseline Architecting Performance Assessment Specialty Engineering Interfaces/Compatibility Evaluation Software Issues/Sizing Risk Definition/Mitigation Scheduling Pre‐Planned Product Improvement Life Cycle Cost Issue Assessment Each of these steps is defined and discussed, together with supporting computer tools. Other guiding RCASSE principles and a summary are also provided.

No abstract

This paper describes a configurational and mathematical tool that may be used in the planning and scheduling of a research program. The configuration, termed a decision box (db) network, is a generalization of the PERT network and allows alternative procedures for accomplishing research tasks to be considered. The probability of following each alternative is estimated, leading to a ranking, in terms of probability of occurrence, of the possible outcomes of the research program. The entropy of the process is calculated using classical information theory concepts Standard PERT techniques for time estimating and scheduling, superimposed upon the db network structure, complete the description of this research management tool.

No abstract

No abstract