An architecture-based approach to identifying system-of-systems alternatives

One challenge in the design and acquisition of system-of-systems (SoS) is identifying the subset of feasible alternatives in the large and diverse set of alternatives that often exists for SoS. Existing approaches to alternative identification are system-focused, thus missing operational alternatives. Many approaches are ad hoc, thereby missing large portions of the alternative space. This paper proposes an approach to identifying both system and operational alternatives and then down-selecting a subset of alternatives to be considered in early-phase design and acquisition using the Department of Defense Architecture Framework. Using this approach, alternatives can be quickly and systematically generated and alternatives that are technically infeasible can be avoided or quickly eliminated such that they are not carried forward for analysis. This process can be used to save time and support decision making in the early phases of acquisition.