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Abstract
A step change is required in the approach for managing obsolescence to meet the growing obsolescence
challenge to the sustainability of complex systems. The rate of obsolescence is accelerating with increasing
complexity and the abundant use of off-the-shelf digital technology. These factors increase system availability
risks, and design changes often become the most practical solution.
This paper defines obsolescence, the challenges now and in the future, and the need for a strategic approach. A
description of the strategic approach is provided, which manages the most significant obsolescence risks. The
paper includes a case study “Portfolio of Complex Warships”, that demonstrates this approach for large scale
systems across a portfolio to generate design change resolutions managed from a high level in the system
architecture. The cost and schedule for each design change is estimated, accounting for when obsolescence will
impact, and assesses technical and financial maturity for resolutions. To reduce overall costs, resolutions are
aligned with planned capability upgrades in a technology refresh plan.
The paper brings obsolescence management formally into the engineering community to benefit the resilience
and sustainability of future systems and improve asset related decision making.
Obsolescence can lead to a significant amount of waste, which could significantly increase with the accelerating
rate of obsolescence; therefore, this paper also discusses the need to ensure obsolescence management is
environmentally sustainable, introducing Circular Economy principles to reduce, reuse and recycle more
resources.