Decision Analysis and Trade Studies Flashcards

Which of the following best describes a 'decision gate' in the system life cycle?

Answer: A formal review point where stakeholders authorize progression to the next phase

A decision gate is a formal milestone review at which stakeholders evaluate readiness and authorize advancement to the next life cycle phase.

In ASEP decision analysis, what distinguishes an objective from a constraint?

Answer: Objectives are goals to maximize or minimize; constraints are fixed boundaries that must be respected

Objectives represent goals to be optimized (e.g., minimize weight), while constraints are hard boundaries that solutions must not violate.

What is the purpose of a decision matrix 'normalization' step?

Answer: To convert all scores to a common scale so they can be fairly compared

Normalization converts raw scores to a common scale (e.g., 0–10) so alternatives measured in different units can be fairly compared.

Which of the following is the BEST description of a 'cost-effectiveness analysis'?

Answer: A comparison of the cost of each alternative relative to the effectiveness it provides

Cost-effectiveness analysis compares alternatives by relating their cost to the level of effectiveness they deliver, enabling value-for-money decisions.

In a trade study, the term 'alternative' refers to:

Answer: A distinct candidate design or approach that could satisfy the system need

In a trade study, an alternative is a distinct design or approach being evaluated to determine which best satisfies system requirements.

Which INCOSE principle states that trade-off decisions should be documented and traceable?

Answer: The principle of decision transparency and auditability

INCOSE emphasizes that trade-off decisions must be documented and traceable so that rationale can be reviewed, audited, and revisited as conditions change.