Navigating the Intersection of Operational and Data Management in Consideration of R2O

The definition of operational is mission-focused, meaning the determination hinges on whether the technology meets the end user's mission needs. As such, the same technologies can be operational for one purpose, but non-operational for another based on the different mission objectives. A NOAA team was tasked with defining what operational means as it applies to uncrewed systems technologies and developed the following definition:

“Meets end-user-defined mission needs and is in use as needed at the intended scale of operation. Project outcome has been quality tested and has met end user transition criteria. The necessary funding, personnel, and infrastructure to routinely operate and maintain the project outcome are available. Researchers and developers have provided end users with all required tools, techniques, information, and documentation for operation, which may include training materials, knowledge and understanding of operational procedures, data management plans, and required maintenance information.”

NOAA uses Readiness Levels as a metric to determine the progression of a technology through research and development to its intended use. When a system meets its end-user-defined requirements for their mission needs, it can be deemed operationally ready. The definition of operational incorporates this readiness level concept with other factors such as funding and the personnel and infrastructure needed to routinely operate the system. Effective system development leads to operational success and data management is an integral component. Data management covers the activities involved with acquiring, maintaining, and ensuring access to technical data. Effective data management supports the entire system lifecycle from research and development to operations. When viewed as intersecting or intertwined activities, technical readiness guides the technology integration, and data management activities work to efficiently ensure that mission-critical information is available to decision-makers on time and as needed. Successful integration of readiness and data management lead to improved system performance and focused operational outcomes.