Management of component obsolescence in the military electronic support environment

This dissertation provides an overview on the problem of electronic component obsolescence from a military product support perspective. By assessing applicable literature as well as feedback and lessons learned from relevant support projects, a strategy for the management of component obsolescence is proposed. The aim of the research is to provide a definition of component obsolescence drivers and to formulate a strategy for the management of component obsolescence within a military electronic support environment. The strategy will give guidelines on how management activities can be optimised to reduce applicable obsolescence risks and thereby reducing related life cycle costs. In order to implement a successful obsolescence management process (OMP), the following approach is proposed: Ø Ensure that the drivers of component obsolescence and the possible impact there of will be made visible to applicable levels of management. Ø Promote an environment where obsolescence management is an integral part of the system engineering process so as to optimise the rapid electronic development process whilst also keeping support expenditure within acceptable limits. Ø Encourage projects to support a process that is directed at addressing obsolescence risks applicable to that project. Introduce OMP as an important part of the Through Life Support (TLS) planning of projects. Ø Materials management should be encouraged to implement a process where interfacing with suppliers will address obsolescence risks. This typically includes a feedback loop regarding component usage patterns, component end of production notifications, component substitutions and other related component supplier information. Ø Adequate funding must be allocated to ensure that obsolescence risks and activities can be addressed cost effectively over the complete life cycle of the product or system from initial design to end of support.