2-11.8 Operations (Use) and Support Phase

The Operations (Use) and Support Phase consists of the collection of data on the asset’s performance; improvements are suggested, made, and managed; and new operational data are collected. This phase continues until a decision is made to redeploy or dispose of the product. If the product is modified or overhauled, life cycle support planning reenters the planning cycle in the Concept and Development phase, and the plan is updated to include overhaul or modification schedules. If there are plans to retire or relocate the asset, the asset’s life cycle enters the Relocation and Disposal Planning phase.

Information gained during the deployment of an asset or from a modification is analyzed, and required changes are made to the existing plan, specifically information relating to maintenance, reliability, parts provisioning, and training. Actual performance data are used to assist in the process and planning of future purchases. These data are compiled and included to modify the appropriate sections of the life cycle plan.