System of systems readiness assessment

Lack of adequate, accurate and timely readiness assessment can be the Achilles heel of a system of systems. Recent technology advancements enable a new capability to confidently assess a system of systems for both intrinsic faults and extrinsic incompatibilities in a matter of minutes, regardless of scale or spatial distribution. Current policies, standards, and handbooks are generally mute regarding a readiness assessment requirement. This paper describes the technologies and assessment capability implications and recommends a ‘get well’ initiative.