Optimising Complex Networked Systems Availability

Abstract

With the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) building up network-centric warfare capabilities, the reliance on the multiplier effects from inter-connectivity and collaborative operations among forces becomes increasingly critical. Availability has been applied typically at the system level, as a means to analyse the readiness and logistics effectiveness of the fighting force. Such a standalone system level Measure of Effectiveness (MOE) is no longer adequate to capture complex interdependency and ensure the readiness of networked systems in a holistic manner.

Today, the Optimised Decisions in Networks (ODIN) tool equips DSTA and the SAF with the ability to quantify networked system architecture and provide the means to identify critical links/bottle-necks that enhance design decision of the architecture. It provides us the means to examine network robustness and survivability under complex threat environment. ODIN seeks to perform resource (spares, manpower, equipment) optimisation at the network or System-of-Systems (SoS) level to ensure they are considered holistically to meet stringent demands. This paper aims to describe the methodologies and capabilities of ODIN. Such Systems Engineering approach could be similarly applied to the design of our smart cities to provide resiliency in design and best allocation of resource to meet the inter-dependencies and high degree of connectivity needed for utilities, transport and communications of today cities.