Cost analysis for aircraft system test and evaluation: empirical survey data structuring and parameteric modeling

Abstract

There is an increasing requirement from high levels within the Government that the Navy's aircraft cost estimators and analysts provide explicit estimates for the sub-elements of Aircraft System Test and Evaluation (AST&E) efforts. The data required to produce more accurate and detailed estimates represent lower levels in the Aircraft Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) than previously available. This is a two volume thesis. Volume I examines the WBS and Contractor Cost Data Reporting (CCDR) system with a description of current reporting practices and implementation shortcomings. Recommended courses of action to improve reporting requirements and thereby improve data quality and cost estimates are proposed. Major cost drivers for AST&E, from both the perspective of Defense Contractors and Military Flight Test Centers, are discussed. Beginning in Volume II, a relational data base system is introduced to more easily evaluate AST&E cost elements and physical/performance characteristics. A Contractor Flight Test cost estimating relationship (CER) is developed through step-wise multiple regression analysis of data gathered from Defense Contractors and Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR).