Capabilities in Context: Evaluating the Net-Centric Enterprise

Abstract : Traditional interoperability testing focuses on the operational effectiveness of preplanned information exchanges to and from the capability being tested as well as functionality of the capability to perform its mission objectives. As the Department of Defense continues to migrate to a net-centric architecture, standalone systems will be replaced with service-based capabilities deployed in various enterprises. In this context, a capability inherits both the risks and requirements associated with that enterprise. The relationship between a capability and the enterprise on which it is deployed is symbiotic and, as such, requires an evaluation of capability functionality as well as the ability of the enterprise to support the capability's mission-driven business processes.