Software Technology Readiness Assessments - Managing Technology Risks in Space System Acquisitions

摘要

Technology Readiness Assessment (TRA) is an important factor in the milestone decisions of the defense acquisition system. The Department of Defense (DOD) offers substantial direction on assessing hardware technologies in its TRA Deskbook. However, with respect to software, particularly software used in space systems, the guidance has proven to be weak and ambiguous. The objective of this report is to offer tangible guidance on establishing Technology Readiness Levels (TRLs) for space software and provide further insights into all dimensions of technology risk mitigation. To illustrate key points, a comparison of technology risk management within conunercial, market- driven companies versus currently codified risk management methods of the defense acquisition community is provided.