ABSTRACT
Managing the development of spacecraft subsystems is an important aspect of aerospace project management. Various subsystems are integrated together, mechanically and electrically, to form a platform capable of hosting the payload to achieve specific mission objectives. The platform and flight vehicle terminology differs based on the mission objective and destination. Subsystem managers are called either control account managers (CAMs) or product development managers (PDMs) to emphasize the significant role they have in managing cost, schedule, and resources to deliver a complete subsystem ready to be integrated with the rest of the spacecraft. The functional line managers are responsible for supporting the CAMs and for assisting in their progress. Subsystems often include multiple assemblies or elements and each has a designated cognizant or lead engineer responsible for the development and test of a subset of the subsystem. A key element of a successful subsystem development process is a thorough and rigorous review process.
