Exploiting Web-Based Technology to Foster IPDT Productivity

Abstract. Very few organizations are able to show a “bottom line ” impact directly attributable to investments in information technology. While many reasons are postulated for this failure to produce measurable improvements, a large part of the solution appears to be getting the user involved in defining requirements, identifying cost benefits, and implementing reengineered product development processes. This approach was tried and validated for the Integrated Product Development Team (IPDT) on which it was applied. The product was a ground based weapon system. Results of the experiment exceeded expectations. Utilization of the system engineering process was an essential element in making this a successful endeavor. Described herein is the process by which IPDT perspectives were changed, the role of cost benefit analysis, results obtained, and what was learned about transforming a well-established culture