COTS-Based Systems for Program Managers
This one-day course addresses the major challenges and opportunities associated with the use of commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) products in software-intensive systems from the perspective of the program manager.
The instructor describes practices based on real-world case studies for establishing a COTS business case, vendor and supplier relationships, architecture, license negotiation, requirements, evaluation, risk management, and more.
The instructor delivers a presentation and invites questions and discussion as time permits.
Who should attend?
- program managers and their direct reports
- source selection teams
Topics
- fundamental definitions associated with COTS-based systems
- an overview of areas affected by COTS-based systems
- affects on engineering
- affects on business
- affects on acquisition
- contractual activities
- recommendations
Objectives
After attending, program managers will be better equipped to- devise an action plan to deal with the range of activities affected by COTS
- anticipate and plan for problems and risks that might otherwise catch managers unaware
- include COTS-based systems when formulating acquisition strategies
Prerequisites
Participants should be familiar with acquisition and program management. Industry attendees should be comfortable with DoD terminology.
Materials
Materials that accompany the course help participants to apply the concepts in their programs, by giving reference materials and guides for actions managers can take.
- slides with extensive notes
- annotated bibliography on COTS-based systems
- quick-reference card with the keys to success with COTS-based systems
- "COTS-Based Systems: Keys for Success and CBS Activity Sets"
- "COTS-Based Systems: What Executives Should Look For in Their Programs"
- "The Commandments of COTS: Still in Search of the Promised Land"
- "The Opportunities and Complexities of Applying Commercial Off-the-Shelf Components"
- Quotations from Chairman David: A Little Red Book of Truths to Enlighten and Guide on the Long March Toward the COTS Revolution
Schedule
This one-day course meets from 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
