ABSTRACT
This chapter presents an overview of pre-proposal activities. During conceptual design and proposal phases, the analyst works closely with engineers and should be a key participant in technical trades, design-to-cost optimization (optimizing technical performance within a known cost constraint), and strategic risk reduction activities. Cost credibility is paramount in any proposal evaluation process—data-driven parametric modeling techniques that are transparent, repeatable, and defensible are critical. Without such, proposed costs are likely to be evaluated as conducive to high-cost risk, a show-stopper with any budget-constrained and risk-averse customer. The parametric modeling approach, therefore, serves both sides of the process: during the proposal process, the parametric analyst works with the technical team to ensure the mission concept is feasible within a given cost constraint. The majority of industry standard modeling tools focus on flight system hardware. Hardware drives required technology development cost (and cost risk), design and schedule uncertainty, testing requirements, mass, and power.
