DoD Handbook- Definitions of Human Factors Terms

Phase I - Program definition and Risk Reduction:

During this phase, the program should become defined as one or more concepts, design approaches, and/or parallel technologies are pursued as warranted. Assessments of the advantages and disadvantages of alternative concepts should be refined Prototyping, demonstrations, and early operational assessments should be considered and included as necessary to reduce risk so that technology, manufacturing and support risks are will in hand before the next decision point. Cost drivers, life cycle cost estimates, cost performance trades, interoperability and acquisition strategy alternatives should be considered to include evolutionary and incremental software development.