Decision Analysis and Trade Studies Flashcards
6 cards from real ASEP practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 Decision Analysis and Trade Studies flashcards as text
What is the primary purpose of a trade study in systems engineering?
Answer: To evaluate and compare alternative solutions against defined criteria
A trade study evaluates and compares alternatives against defined criteria to support informed decision-making.
Which method is commonly used in ASEP trade studies to rank alternatives by assigning weighted scores?
Answer: Weighted scoring matrix (Pugh matrix)
A weighted scoring matrix, such as a Pugh matrix, assigns weights to criteria and scores each alternative to produce a ranked comparison.
In a Figures of Merit (FOM) analysis, what does each FOM represent?
Answer: A key performance parameter used to measure system effectiveness
Figures of Merit are measurable parameters used to assess and compare how well each alternative meets system effectiveness goals.
What is the role of sensitivity analysis in a trade study?
Answer: To determine how changes in criteria weights affect the outcome
Sensitivity analysis reveals how robust a decision is by showing how the preferred alternative changes when criteria weights are varied.
During decision analysis, which of the following is the FIRST step a systems engineer should perform?
Answer: Define the decision criteria
Defining decision criteria before generating or scoring alternatives ensures the evaluation remains objective and aligned with system requirements.
A 'must-have' criterion in a trade study is best described as:
Answer: A threshold criterion that an alternative must satisfy to remain viable
A must-have (threshold) criterion is a non-negotiable requirement; alternatives that fail it are eliminated from further consideration.