In 1999, NASA lost the Mars Climate Orbiter, a 338 kg robotic space probe (with a cost of $327.6 million dollars) due to a failed translation of British units into metric units in the mission software. This mistake triggered an unintentional de-orbit of the probe and its subsequent disintegration in Mars' upper atmosphere.

The response that details the issues of the case, particularly as they relate to quality, and addresses the following questions:

 

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• Which quality approaches, methods and tools would you propose to mitigate each of the 8 contributing factors identified in the release?
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• Which considerations would you take in order to implement your proposals within the organization?

Read NASA's release"Mars Climate Orbiter Failure Board Releases Report, numerous NASA actions underway in response"(http://mars.jpl.nasa.gov/msp98/news/mco991110.html)

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Answer rating: 100% (QA)

Quality Approaches Methods and Tools to Mitigate Contributing Factors 1 Communication Failure Approach Implement a robust communication protocol emphasizing clarity and accuracy Method Use standardized terminology and reporting formats Tool Establish a centralized communication platform for all project stakeholders 2 Cultural Issue Approach Foster a culture of transparency and accountability within the organization Method Conduct regular training sessions on cultural awareness and sensitivity Tool Encourage open dialogue and feedback mechanisms among team members 3 Documentation Deficiency Approach Enhance documentation practices to ensure completeness and accuracy Method Implement version control and document review processes Tool Utilize document management systems for centralized storage and access 4 Lack of Test Procedures Approach Develop comprehensive test procedures covering all missioncritical components Method Conduct thorough testing at each stage of the project lifecycle Tool Use simulation and modeling tools to simulate mission scenarios and validate software functionality 5 Failure to Use Metric Units Approach Standardize ... View the full answer