Strategic Planning Tools Based on Object-Oriented Technology. Phase I

摘要

The purpose of this project was to define requirements for, design, and prototypea computer-based support system for RD program managers (PMs). We call this support system the Program Manager's Associate (PMA). We specify the initial PMA for ARPA with the longer range aim of commercializing PMA for PMs in various government, business, and academic settings. This project builds upon our work on computer-based associates, particularly in the design domain, resulting in commercial software for strategic planning and technological design. This base is enriched by Georgia Tech's technology opportunities analysis software that draws upon electronic information searching to profile and forecast RD activities and trends. The current project explored the nature of the ARPA PM's job to specify system functionality. This led to the identification of five main functions for the ARPA PMA: We then developed a prototype PMA using PowerBuilder. The prototype is a Windows application that interacts with conventional office applications, and demonstrates how the PM's five functions would be supported. The PMA would also facilitate cross-program coordination by providing access to ARPA program information in structured, consistent ways. In addition, it provides a vehicle to help prepare new PMs to work in the ARPA environment.