Human Total Ownership Cost in Complex Systems: Estimating Human Performance Cost in Environments with Multiple Layers of Technology

Abstract

In current practice, the Human Total Ownership Cost (HTOC) is often viewed as an acquisition cost—that is, the cost of systems that does not consider human costs other than those related to the immediate staffing, training needs and requirements. The cost of human performance, in terms of both human capabilities and limitations, is directly related to the total ownership cost (TOC) of the technology. This paper summarizes ongoing efforts for modeling complex human performance cost drivers, for identification of critical elements that define the long term impact of human performance on system design, development, production, fielding, sustainment, and improvement, throughout the system life cycle. The overall aim is to develop a methodology to better assess and predict the total cost of human and human performance as relevant to acquisition of new technologies and systems. Future challenges that decision makers are likely to face in this domain are also discussed.