TRAPS
(Integrated Test)

1. Test and Evaluation Master Plan (TEMP) is prepared using DoD Directive 5000.3 guidelines.
   
   Alarms: Contractor and subcontractor tests are not identified.
   
   Escapes: Contractor prepare an Integrated Test Plan (ITP) addressing all contractors and subcontractor tests.
   
   Benefits: ITP will identify duplicate or missing test activities and ensure proper test sequencing.
   
   
2. Developmental testing is independently performed by contractor.
   
   Alarms: No provisions are made for government personnel to participate in contractor weapon systems testing.
   
   Escapes: Provide contractual arrangements for at least some government participation in contractor weapon systems testing.
   
   Benefits: Coordinated test program between contractor and government will provide early identification of deficiencies.
   
   
3. Test program is planned to support major milestone reviews.
   
   Alarms: Time is insufficient for redesign or retest of identified problems. Milestone reviews are supported by unrealistic projections of limited test data.
   
   Escapes: Base test schedules on engineering considerations with sufficient time provided for redesign/retest. Identify additional test resources for critical tests.
   
   Benefits: Sufficient time will be available to obtain technical data to satisfy project requirements.
   
   
4. Individual test plans are submitted for government approval.
   
   Alarms: Integrated test plan is not required. Overall test program is not reviewed for duplicate or missing test activities.
   
   Escapes: Ensure that test program objectives are satisfied by planning for required integration of individual tests.
   
   Benefits: Test facilities and resources will be used efficiently.
   

"Integrated Test Best Practices: How to Avoid Surprises in the World's Most Complicated Technical Process. Department of the Navy; Reliability, Maintainability, and Quality Assurance Directorate (NAVSO P-6071), March 1986,pp. 5-1 to 5-6.