TenP — Ten Principles for Successful Space Programs

Instar Engineering Short Course

Course Overview

This course for leaders, managers, supervisors, systems engineers, and consultants addresses the most challenging problem in the space industry: How do we reduce cost and schedule time while also trying to ensure a successful mission? After examining the driving issues in space-system development, the instructors introduce ten principles for successful space programs. The course then explores key aspects of leadership, management, and engineering within the framework of those principles. The instructors share many examples, case histories, and personal experiences to drive home the key points. The objectives are to provide a fresh focus on quality and mission success, build understanding, spur thought, and help your program improve efficiency of its organization and processes - from the top level of management on down to how every engineer or technician approaches his or her job.

  1. Invest in knowledge and understanding
  2. Adopt the right attitude: Put consistent priority on quality and mission success
  3. Instill ownership and responsibility
  4. Constantly strive to improve teamwork and communication
  5. Follow a sound engineering approach
  6. Reduce total cost through good engineering and good management, not by compromising quality
  7. Keep everything as simple as possible
  8. Establish an effective quality system that involves everyone
  9. Be willing to accept risk, but only those you and other stake holders truly understand
  10. Make sure you - and everyone else - have enough time, resources, and freedom to follow the above principles

Target Audience

All leaders, managers, supervisors, systems engineers, and consultants, involved in procuring, specifying, designing, producing, or testing spacecraft, launch vehicles, or vehicle components

Course Developers and Instructors

Tom Sarafin and Poti Doukas

Course Length

Two full days, three 5-hour days, or four 4-hour days. Three-day version also available with the added topic of requirements writing and additional material on verification planning.