The line separating general systems for communication and operational management from defence systems is becoming increasingly blurred. At the same time, the need for specific and advanced systems for certain types of usage is growing.
Coordinating different types of requirements and functional needs demands knowledge of the finest details along with an understanding of the bigger picture. Many systems require further development in order to manage new tasks and to operate under conditions which differ radically from those at home.
Technical procurement support includes:
- Needs analysis
- Evaluation and analysis of technology and system solutions
- Evaluation of suppliers' tenders
- System impact analyses
- Participation in verification and validation
- Specific technology studies
In procurement work, it is important to take into account the system/product's lifecycle. Operation and maintenance costs, for example, should be considered at an early stage. Within the framework of the relevant decisions and agreements in place, ÅF works to draw up a basis for decision-making in the form of specifications of requirements, functional specifications and technical specifications. These documents may also contain descriptions of which systems will have to work together and how that will happen.
Being independent of any suppliers, ÅF is able to help compile documents on which decisions can be made, assess the extent to which tenders meet the specified requirements, draw up specifications and provide support in contact with suppliers.