Vision Paper

Vision Paper: Integrating VV&A methods and cost-effectiveness analysis in the acquisition process for training simulation solutions

Huiskamp, W.
Voogd, J.
Korteling, J.E.

Wang, Z. (editor)

2013

Simulation is an important technology that enables NATO and its member nations to train their soldiers. The benefits of simulation-based training include saving of time, money, and even lives, when training for unsafe scenarios. Simulation also facilitates joint and combined training. Moreover, simulation-based training is capable of expanding the limits of live training, thus facilitating larger exercises. The acquisition of valid and cost-effective training simulation solutions is crucial to the mission-readiness of our armed forces, in particular when available funding and resources are limited. This paper presents our vision of the defence acquisition processes for simulation systems by integration with verification, validation and accreditation (VV&A) methods and cost-effectiveness analysis (CEA), in order to assure that a valid and cost-effective training simulation solution is acquired. We envision supporting the whole acquisition process (e.g., stating the need, training needs analysis, requirements analysis, evaluation and selection, and acceptance of assets), taking all other cost aspects of the training simulation solution lifecycle into account (e.g., deployment, maintenance, re-use, retirement). All three of the processes mentioned above include multiple activities and tasks, and they require large amounts of information. We propose to combine activities where possible and to ensure that inputs and outputs match. For example, a good set of requirements based on the user needs is input for the acquisition process, but also important as one of the starting points of VV&A, as well as for CEA. The authors hope to further develop the ideas presented in this vision paper. This future work should be performed in close cooperation with ministry of defence (MoD) procurement organizations and should also engage with the wider NATO research community, in particular the SAS panel and the NMSG. The presentation of the initial concept to the SAS-095 task-group on Cost-benefit Analysis of Military Training is seen as a first step in that direction.

Defence
Defence Research
Defence, Safety and Security Defence, Safety and Security
Organisation Human
MSG - Modelling Simulation & Gaming TPI - Training & Performance Innovations
BSS - Behavioural and Societal Sciences

http://resolver.tudelft.nl/uuid:079afbdb-ff51-43b9-b8b8-40e26d9fb659

472236

RTO-SAS-095

North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), Neuilly-sur-Seine

RTO-MP-SAS-095 Cost-Benefit Analysis of Military Training, 14.1–14.16

Paper presented at the SAS Workshop held in Amsterdam, the Netherlands, June 5-6, 2012

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