Case Study: NASA successfully estimates new space technology with PRICE Systems

NASA Successfully Estimates New Space Technology

NASA faced the challenge of creating a reliable cost and schedule estimate for the groundbreaking Space Interferometry Mission (SIM), which used entirely new technology with no existing cost or technical analogies at the subsystem level. To tackle this, NASA's IPAO at Langley Research Center utilized the PRICE Hardware and PRICE Software Estimating Models from vendor PRICE Systems to develop an independent estimate.

The solution involved using the flexibility of the PRICE models to break down complex subsystems into approximately 300 lower-level components, which could then be practically estimated. Through open communication with the engineering teams and consultation with a PRICE Executive Consultant, NASA successfully created a validated estimate and schedule. PRICE Systems provided the tools that enabled the verification of the program’s management schedule, ensuring a credible and practical plan for the new technology.

NASA