Procedure and Tool to Achieve DoD ATS Objectives in Current and Future ATS

Abstract

The automatic test system (ATS) executive directorate (ED) has developed objectives for the Department of Defense (DoD) ATS modernization. The DoD ATS framework working group (FWG) was established to create a Framework that addresses these objectives. The DoD's intention is for all future ATS to comply with the Framework. However, due to program constraints, it might be impractical to fully incorporate the Framework in a particular ATS. Therefore, a method was created to guide ATS acquisition experts and development organizations in determining how an ATS can best achieve the DoD ED objectives. The ATS Framework consists of approximately twenty key elements, all of which must be incorporated into an ATS in order for it to fully comply with the framework. A matrix has been created as a guide in developing new ATS or evaluating existing ATS. The matrix could be used in multiple ways; to compare the Framework compliance of one ATS versus another, to compare the Framework compliance of a portion of an ATS, to determine which elements should be incorporated into a new ATS, or to determine how well an ATS meets particular ATS ED objectives. This paper will describe the acquisition environment that led to the creation of the matrix. The matrix will then be presented, including its purpose and composition. This will be followed by an overview describing, in detail, how the matrix could be used. Finally, the paper will show how the DoD ATS FWG will use the matrix to prioritize its tasks in defining the framework.