Innovative Approach to the Definition of Flight Test Requirements through the Application of Integrated Test Evaluation and Acceptance (ITEA) Planning

M I Sneddon, QinetiQ Capability Support Division United Kingdom Ministry of Defence Air Test and Evaluation Centre Boscombe Down, Salisbury, UK

Abstract

The UK MOD Acquisition Management System advocates the use of Integrated Test Evaluation and Acceptance (ITEA) planning to assure 'capability' and optimise any flight test programme.

ITEA is an approach rather than a methodology, which involves unprecedented end user involvement in both development and acceptance testing.

The challenge lies in facilitating end user involvement throughout the project lifecycle in such a way that the following positive aspects are achieved:

• Optimised HMI achieved within the given hardware/software constraints
• Designers fully understand end user needs and use context
• End-user expectations are managed
• Validation and verification activity overlap as far as practicable, reducing programme length
• All evidence requirements are identified at the outset or as early as practicable to avoid unwanted 'surprises'
• DT&E informs OT&E
• Programme timescales and costs are condensed by minimising duplication of effort, engaging in parallel activity, testing once and using evidence many times.

While at the same time avoiding as far as possible the negative outcomes:

• Contractual wrangles - subjectivity in defining what is 'acceptable'
• Liability issues - who [in the joint team] said it was OK?
• Requirements creep