R&M in the integrated product development process [military systems]

Integrated product development process is the US Air Force Systems Command (AFSC) implementation of concurrent engineering, which simultaneously considers product design, manufacturing processes, and support processes. In consonance with US Department of Defense guidance, AFSC has embarked on a broad program to transition its engineering processes to reflect concurrent engineering. The AFSC approach uses critical process analysis, tailoring to accommodate product differences, pilot programs, and transition to a way of doing business. Major facets of the program include: near-term education and training; major weapon system development programs; long-range policy, guidance, education, and training; and research and development. It requires significant changes to the way the R&M disciplines are implemented and how R&M specialists interact with the system changes