Verification, Validation, and Accreditation of a Soldier-System Modeling Tool

Abstract

Increasingly, system developers are relying on modeling and simulation to support early design decisions. In turn, to support effective, timely use of models and simulations, verification, validation, and, in some cases, accreditation (VV&A) are required. The soldier-system analysis tools collectively known as Hardware vs. Manpower (HARDMAN) III underwent a formal VV&A process, the first of its type in the Army. The first phase comprised the core task network modeling capability and the effects implemented as additions to or modifications of the task data–mental workload estimation and environmental degradation, personnel characteristics, and training. A review board of representative users, policy-makers, technical experts, and soldier proponents evaluated the findings against eight criteria–configuration management, software verification, documentation, data input requirements, model granularity, validity of modeling techniques and embedded algorithms, output, and analysis timelines. All criteria were satisfied and formal accreditation was granted with only limited caveats.