Interoperability-how do we know when we have achieved it? [Military systems]

Whenever disparate systems are required to exchange information there will be a need for a test programme to evaluate the extent of interoperability that can be achieved. The increasing complexity of C3MIS, the variety of different systems that are required to exchange information, and the incompatibilities that can occur due to differences in implementation and timescales, create significant problems for the coordinating agencies involved. The article describes various issues concerned with the analysis, expression and measurement of interoperability and puts forward a metric based upon achievement of interoperability requirements. It uses as its basis the concept of a generalised defence system comprising a number of separate platforms. The principles, however, are applicable to any complex C3MIS. The use of a matrix of function, platform and communications media combinations to determine the overall scope of interoperability is innovative. Formal methods are outlined for specifying and measuring interoperability