Capturing Total System of Systems Costs Using SEER-H with Total System Vision (TSV) and SEER-SEM

Capturing Total System of Systems Costs Using SEER-H with Total System Vision (TSV) and SEER-SEM:
An Example Application
Robert (Bob) Hunt
Galorath Incorporated
100 North Sepulveda Boulevard, Suite 1801
El Segundo, California 90245
703-201-0651(phone)

Abstract

This paper[1] discusses how a parametric life cycle cost model (LCC) , SEER-H with Total System Vision (TSV) and SEER-SEM software estimation model, are used to facilitate the cost impact assessment of Systems Engineering labor and materials for a Major System of Systems project containing both hardware and software components. The main purpose is to introduce the underlying methodology and demonstrate the flexibility of the cost model for developing System Level Costs at the System of Systems Level. Readers are introduced to the model, its premise, and how engineers use it to obtain system level engineering labor and material estimates on a Constellation of 18 earth orbiting Optical Satellites. The system includes the launch vehicles and services, mission control and a world wide tracking antenna sites as well as operational and support costs.

IntroductionPurpose

This paper discusses how an integrated parametric Life Cycle Cost (LCC) model (SEER-H with Total System Vision (TSV) and SEER-SEM software estimation model) is used to facilitate the cost impact assessment of systems engineering labor and materials for a large-scale System of Systems (SOS) project containing both hardware and software components. The main purpose is to introduce the underlying methodology and demonstrate the flexibility of this integrated cost model for developing System Level Costs (SLCs) at the SOS level.

Scope

This paper describes an integrated cost model, its basis, and how engineers use it to obtain total cost of ownership (development, operations, and support) of engineering labor and materials for a constellation of 18 earth-orbiting optical satellites. This example large-scale SOS estimate includes, in addition to the satellites themselves, the launch vehicles and services, mission control, world wide tracking antenna sites, and ground-based simulation and support. The model described in this paper and its associated processes can be applied to any large-scale SOS program.

Background

Capturing and developing systems engineering efforts for a large-scale SOS is no trivial task. Some approaches taken have included applying analogy methods of estimating meaning comparing the proposed project to previously completed similar projects where project development information is known using actual data from the completed projects. Some organizations employ expert judgment which involves consulting with human experts to use their experience and understanding of a proposed project to provide an estimate for the cost of the system level cost for a project. Still others have used parametric or algorithmic methods which involve the use of equations to perform estimates. The equations are based on research and historical data. The SEER-H with TSV model employs analogy, parametric and algorithmic methods used in conjunction with a top-down wrap rate method of estimation which is based on overall characteristics of the project. The project is partitioned into lower-level systems and components with life cycle phases beginning at the highest level. This project definition is used to compose the system level cost for the modeled system of systems project being contemplated. Many people and organizations have grappled with this problem statement and the first task is to understand what systems engineering is and is not.