Multi-mission technical subsystem management measures taken and lessons learned

Abstract

The primary focus of the Instrument Operations Subsystem (IOS) within NASA's Advanced Multi-Mission Operations System (AMMOS) is to provide adaptable multi-mission operations core capabilities (ground data systems tools and services) supporting mission instrument operations planning, decision-making, and performance assessment for a wide variety of instrument types (cameras, spectrometers, robotic components, etc.) for deep space planetary exploration (orbiter, in-situ, fly-by) and observatory missions. This paper addresses, from the technical program leadership perspective, the measures taken and lessons learned relative to managing the system engineering, development, and cost of IOS tools and services which provide payload instrument data processing, management, and distribution (primarily in the form of science imagery and higher order data products) in support of mission operations. Items to be covered include measures taken to: a) draft IOS functional processes/procedures within the boundaries of institutional and managing/oversight organizations, b) create a software and infrastructure management plan for the IOS team with roles and responsibilities, c) develop a strategic plan and roadmap for expanded and/or new tool capabilities which build upon an existing tool-base to support upcoming missions (such as Mars2016) and additional/new instrument types, d) define subsystem level functional work-breakdown-structure and related requirements, e) formulate an adjustable/verifiable cost model for developing/adapting functional components, f) achieve Capability Maturity Model Integration (CMMI) level 3, and g) lessons learned along with suggestions for improvement when accommodating competing agendas from a multitude of stakeholders and contributors.