Chapter 4 - Establishing the Test Team

Test and evaluation (T&E) is performed to provide information to reduce acquisition risk, provide early and continuing estimates of a system's operational effectiveness and suitability, verify technical performance and objectives, and support programmatic decision making. Test activities must be fully integrated early into the overall development process to ensure a cohesive and seamless acquisition program. The test authority must therefore be alert to the evolution of new programs so that they can assign a dedicated test team to each new program at the earliest practicable stage with consideration as to the availability of funding and other resources. Involvement of the team from the earliest stages will enhance their understanding of the aircraft/system's mission and design features, and thus enhance their ability to contribute to the project's success. However, while T&E will be required throughout the project's life (commonly called "cradle-tograve" support), the aspects of interest will change and appropriate changes to the size and composition of the test team will also be needed. The procedures and practices contained herein are typical of those found at a large military test center; however, they contain all the elements that must be considered in the selection of flight test team members. The process may vary considerably depending on the organization, the resources available, and whether it is a military or civilian program.