New Army method in stating and assessing RAM requirements

The new US Army method for stating and assess-g RAM requirements is described, with attention given to the definition of RAM attributes, the specification of reliability, the tracking of reliability, the provision of incentives, and the tracking of growth. It is pointed out that the recently introduced Army methodology of specifying reliability both to assess its performance during a given mission and to determine the quality of the product with more all-inclusive logistics overtones covers all the aspects of reliability concerns. Additionally, the dictated approach to specify reliability in terms of reliability growth and bands minimizes the danger of eliminating a system without appropriate evaluation or a chance to establish its worthiness. The associated improvements in the techniques to assess reliability and to identify candidates for minimizing logistics burden and for approving cost-effectiveness will also enhance the quality of the product. The thrust of this effort is to provide the most reliable equipment without making mistakes during the process due to poor reliability specifications or assessment techniques