Boosting COSYSMO to derive a comprehensive Acquisition benchmarking tool

Abstract

The combination of the Constructive Systems Engineering Cost Model (COSYSMO) version 2.0 with the Capability Maturity Model Integration (CMMI) creates a groundbreaking approach to optimizing public sector acquisition. This methodology enhances cost estimation accuracy, supplier evaluation, and risk management by also incorporating the comprehensive SE frameworks from ANSI/EIA 632, Total Cost of Ownership (TCO), and Technology Readiness Levels (TRL). The proposed model addresses the complexities inherent in public acquisition by aligning technical and organizational assessments with evidence-based metrics.

To adapt COSYSMO 2.0 for public sector use, the model uses metrics derived from INCOSE's Guide to Writing Requirements (GtWR), enabling the segmentation of requirements into ‘easy,’ ‘nominal,’ and ‘hard’ categories. The classification, based on an analysis of bidder submitted Request for Information (RFI) and Request for Quote (RFQ) documentation, creates a comparable and baselined Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) cost estimations. The inclusion of requirement quality analysis using the correctness, completeness, and consistency metrics per INCOSE's standards supports a robust quality assessment of requirements early in the process, helping the contracting agencies to make a robust and fair decision answering:

Who is the best supplier from a technical, economical and project perspective and what risks are associated with the different potential contractors?