Methodology for Rapid Development of C2 Planning Systems

This paper proposes a methodology for rapid development of computer systems that offers benefits for the rapid and accurate elicitation and definition of user and system requirements. It also aids user acceptance and can reduce procurement time scales. The development of a successful planning system depends on a user-developer link where final user requirements can be developed through an adaptive process of learning and evolution. The methodology QinetiQ have developed is based on iterative and interactive 2 way links between User and System, User and Designer and between System and Designer. This middle-out approach relies on the quick delivery of an initial system to which users can respond and thus clarify what they really need. This is known as rapid prototyping or Rapid Application Development RAD. The refined method called Parallel Rapid Application Development has been developed in response to Urgent Operational Requirements UOR. This involves designing and building an initial system using the methods detailed above but in a very short and concentrated time scale. This system is then fielded and further requirements are developed in response to information from the field. The system is updated and a new version sent to fielded system via secure email.