Analysis of JPL Mission Cost Estimate Drivers

Abstract

An analysis of JPL cost estimate drivers. To give a better idea of true costs, all values were converted to fiscal year 2005 ; the NASA New Start Inflation Index (2005) was used. The context was generated primarily from interview notes. Project-specific drivers were identified through documents and interviews. Statistically significant common drivers occurred in late 1999-early 2000. A better understanding of cost estimate drivers could result in higher fidelity cost estimates.