Running behind schedule is not uncommon in satellite projects and it usually leaves the last phases, integration and verification, pressed for time. An analysis of the problems encountered during the command and data handling subsystem (CDHS) integration and verification of Delfi-C~3 shows that time pressure and the resulting lagging documentation had a substantial impact on the phase progress. To minimize time pressure it is best to minimize the number of problems. However, time pressure in the integration and verification can also be traced to decisions in earlier phases. The choice for a prototype flight design and limited and non-representative breadboarding were the biggest mistakes. It becomes also clear that quite a number of the discussed problems are related to the fact that Delfi-C~3 is a student project. Workforce discontinuity and a lack of hierarchy make it difficult to apply systems engineering and project management effectively.
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