The Human Element in Unmaintainable Systems Lynda A. Bottos 2018 SAE Aerospace Summit October 2, 2018

The Human Element in Unmaintainable Systems Human Impact Before System Operation Introducing human error into the supply chain, which leads to latent failures (unintentional). Creating unconventional* designs, software, methods, processes, or other requirements (intentional). * Unconventional is not the same as innovative. The Human Element in Unmaintainable Systems

The Human Element in Unmaintainable Systems Example - Hubble Space Telescope Spherical aberration of the mirror (wrong shape) Original launch date in 1986. Challenger mishap grounded orbiter fleet; had down-time to concentrate on configuration management. Instead, worked on system upgrades. Launched April 24, 1990 (STS-31); sent back blurry images. Repaired during the first planned servicing mission in December 1993 (STS- 61); employed a “workaround” using corrective mirrors to focus the image. The Human Element in Unmaintainable Systems

The Human Element in Unmaintainable Systems Ideas for Preventing Latent Failures Identify the potential hazards associated with latent failures Conduct a comprehensive failure mode analysis that includes human error Accept that errors will occur. No amount of training will prevent errors. Conduct quality assurance and quality control of the “System,” not “system” Ensure that processes are accurate and understandable Reflect the production or maintenance required Are written in “plain language” Ensure that software exhibits standardized, conventional coding that any skilled successor can understand, maintain, and upgrade. Verify vehicle or product through testing when possible. The Human Element in Unmaintainable Systems

The Human Element in Unmaintainable Systems Example - Future Imagery Architecture (FIA) Satellite Program Too many unconventional approaches Lack of seasoned technical staff oversight on the project Unrealistically low budget for new technology contract (no budget for research/testing) Budget was $5 billion; Final project cost nearly $18 billion, and was never delivered Unrealistic optical design, of could not be built Use of known non-aerospace rated material by parts suppliers to keep costs down (tin) The Human Element in Unmaintainable Systems

The Human Element in Unmaintainable Systems Managing the Unconventional Approach Ensure correct skill mix Train staff to avoid “creative” designs or coding because they don’t know better Maintain staff currency for latest techniques, designs, codes, etc. Eliminate staff single-point failures Assign back-ups; they should be as skilled as the primaries COR *- Contracts need technical oversight, not just administrative oversight *Government Federal Acquisition Regulations (FARs) eliminated the Technical Operations Representative (TOR). Most Contracting Representatives (CORs) do not have the expertise to both manage the day-to- day contract activities and technically evaluate deliverables. Ensure contracts have a dedicated technical SME who can help accept the deliverables. The Human Element in Unmaintainable Systems

The Human Element in Unmaintainable Systems Main Take-Aways Humans will make errors. Tolerating is better than mitigating. Use properly skilled staff to develop products, write processes, and conduct maintenance. Focus on quality and configuration management throughout the System, not just the system. Learn from the past, don’t repeat it. Time is money. The Human Element in Unmaintainable Systems

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