Risk Identification Biases and Their Impact to Space System Development Project Performance

Abstract

:Risk identification during the design and development phases of complex systems is commonly implemented, but often fails to result in the identification of events and circumstances that truly challenge project performance. Inefficiencies in cost and schedule estimation are usually held accountable for cost and schedule overruns, but the true root cause is often the realization of programmatic and technical risks. This research explores risk identification trends and biases pervasive during space system development that limit the awareness of such risks. The findings and results provide insight into how future engineering and risk managers can potentially avoid these shortfalls.