4.3.14. Integration Process
4.3.14. Integration Process
The program uses the Integration process to systematically assemble lower-level system elements into successively higher-level system elements, iterative with verification until the system itself emerges. Integration is essential to increasing system maturity, reducing risk, and preparing the system for transition to the warfighter.
The Interface Management process is critical to the success of the Integration process. Interface control specifications should be confirmed early on and placed under strict configuration control. All of the program’s external interfaces and dependencies should be documented in the program’s Systems Engineering Plan (SEP). The SEP Outline requires that all programs with external dependencies and/or interfaces establish Memoranda of Agreement (MOA) in order to formally establish commitments and management procedures. A current table showing the status of all MOAs is a mandated as part of the program SEP, which is updated in each phase.
The Program Manager and Systems Engineer are responsible for planning, managing, and executing the Integration process. Experience has shown that programs that develop an integration plan are more successful. This plan defines the stages of integration during which system elements are successively integrated to form higher level elements and eventually the finished product. Alternative integration paths should be considered. The integration plan should include a description of the required Systems Integration Laboratories or other facilities, personnel, test stands, harnesses, testing software, and integration schedule.
Integration activities support the Interface Management process by verifying that accurate and effective interface specifications are documented. In parallel, the verification methods for each integration level are developed and included in the allocated baseline. The successive integration phases follow the sequence defined in the program’s integration plan and lead to the final product ready for verification and validation.
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