TABLE OF CONTENTS Every acquisition begins with identification of clear and understandable requirements for the system. This identification includes the intended use of the system, the environment where the system will be used, the rate of usage, concerns pertaining to support of the system, and potential costs of ownership. The importance of this identification cannot be overemphasized. Failure to perform this identification properly almost always will result in an inappropriate system solution. Therefore, due diligence must be applied to this initial process. It is the first step toward success of any acquisition program.
The first step in identification of system requirements is to define the need for the system. Not what is the system, but what does it have to do ? Figure 3-1 illustrates the questions that must be answered as the initial step in defining need. The answers to these questions form the basis for applying sup-portability engineering analyses and techniques to the acquisition and management of the system throughout its life. This list of questions represents the minimum input information necessary to establish the basis parameters that delineate the ultimate criteria for system success. Throughout this text, this list will be referenced continually because the answers to these questions represent the final acceptability of the system to meet the user's need.
How will the users actually use the system?
Is there a measurable output to be produced from system use?
What are the minimum performance requirements?
Where will the system be used?
How frequently will...
