Evaluating options for enhancing technology development and controlling cost growth

Given the history of delays for NASA science instruments, a study was conducted to assess the viability of a new development paradigm called Instrument First, Spacecraft Second (IFSS) to reduce cost and schedule growth in future missions. The new paradigm was shown to provide many tangible benefits, including decreased portfolio costs and less portfolio volatility, but there were still questions as to whether it would work within current NASA policy and what options were available for implementing this new development approach. This paper provides a discussion of how the approach fits within NASA, guidance for setting the project schedule and various management options.