ABSTRACT
This chapter aims to develop a top-level framework in which each of the identified activities can be arranged. The system engineering process must be defined with respect to two scales of time — the macro-scale and the micro-scale. The macro-scale, or Time Domain, considers the System Development activity as viewed across the entire life cycle of the program. One of the key elements of the System Development Framework (SDF) is the clear delineation of the data flow-down and feedback paths that connect same-tier and adjacent-tier activities. The SDF is modular and therefore tailorable. Tailoring is accomplished by partitioning the program hierarchy appropriately, adding tiers as necessary, and by adding same-tier elements as needed. The SDF provides a structure for program requirements databases. Cost-plus contracts generally assure the contractor that all costs incurred during the performance of the contract will be reimbursed by the customer.
