9.7.1 Model Based Tool for Planning Optimal Integration Processes Under Severe Uncertainty

The preparing of an integration plan is usually done intuitively by experienced engineers based on their previous experience and the project constraints. Since the plan is intuitive, it may be not optimal. The integration process involves severe uncertainties, such as units not being available on time, integration increment duration, and testing costs. Many times such uncertainties cause changes in the project plan. The integration team may find that they are not prepared for these changes –again, because the integration plan is not optimal. This work offers a model‐based software tool for finding an optimal path for system integration. The tool finds the optimum path assuming deterministic integration parameters or parameters with inherent uncertainties. The tool is designed for project managers, integration teams and academic integration research. It has a built‐in flexibility in order to serve a variety of organizations and different users.