Can Acquiring Structured Data Improve a Learning Content Development

Environment?Mr. Wayne Gafford

Advanced Distributed Learning (ADL)Mr. Schawn E. Thropp

Concurrent Technologies Corporation (CTC)

Focus and Takeaways

Problem StatementStructured Data and its BenefitsNPS Survey SummaryStructured Data Acquisition Policy OverviewCost Benefit Analysis

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Problem Statement

Technical learning content not aligned with authoritative source informationMinimal governance or standardization for enterprise data acquisition through lifecycle maintenance

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A Quantitative Fact Supporting the Need for Integrated Distributed Learning Content Development and Management

“Of the 408 projects submitted for Computer-Based Training and PC-Simulation Maintenance, two-thirds reported the primary reason for the maintenance request was due to equipment or publication changes. Better integration of technical information with training would alleviate some of this rework.”

Computer-Based Training & Personal Computer-Simulation Prioritization and Cost Estimation Assessment for NETC COO Supporting FY10/11 Spend Plan and POM12 Submittal (NETC 2009)

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Structured Markup & Acquisition

Structured technical content based on technical data specifications is one cornerstone to enabling best practices in learning content management and development environments.Benefits:

Ensure logistical support analysis is linked to product support.Trace spiral development datadevelopment.Align tech data products tofielded and configured systems.

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Structured Data and its Benefits

Formal representation of data (separated from context) HTML, S1000D, DITA, etc

Feature BenefitStandardized Management Standard approaches to managing content development and lifecycle

processes through a formal content structure, specific syntax/semantics of elements and common storage mechanisms

Defined Patterns/Structures Consistent, institutionalized use and meaning of content structures (e.g., naming conventions, unique identification, meta data)

Flexibility in Authoring Content is not trapped by a single proprietary format. Content can be created/edited in a variety of authoring tools

Write Once Publish Many Formats

Context-free and can be added at publish time (device rendering, style rendering, multi-lingual)

Lifecycle Management Structured data stored in a common repository can improve learning content development by assisting in the identification (i.e., through XML linking structures) of content effected by changes.

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NPS Survey Summary

Title: Should S1000D be required by DoD?Sponsor: OSD P&RConducted by: Naval Postgraduate School (Oct 2009 – May 2010)Focus: Use of an XML based data markup specification S1000D

Should S1000D be required by DoD?Survey shows programs and industry support DoD policy requiring structured data Foster cooperation and integration between tech data and

learning data Link to NPS Survey on Use of S1000D

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Structured Markup in Acquisition Policies

DoD Instruction 5000.2 – Operation of the Defense Acquisition SystemThe Defense Acquisition GuidebookDoD Directive 8320.02 – Data Sharing in Net-Centric DoD

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DoD Instruction 5000.2

Flexible management framework for translating capability needs and technology opportunities into stable, affordable and well-managed acquisition programsData management intersections Milestones A C references “data management strategy” Lifecycle sustainment considerations Data management and technical data rights

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Defense Acquisition Guidebook (DAG)

Designed to compliment DoDI 5000.2 by providing tailorable best practices for acquisition workforceCentral Theme: Fostering Integrated Data Environments

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Key Touch PointsData Management Strategy Reflect the assessment and integration of data

requirements across all the functional disciplines

Integrated Data Environments Establish a data management system

Key Program Documents Product support package development

Initial Lifecycle Sustainment Plan Supportability analysis processes

Maintenance & Sustainment Strategy Supply chain features for analysis and rapid response

Data Acquisition All activities that create, obtain or access data

DoD Directive 8320.02

Data Sharing in a Net-Centric DoD Direct the use of resources to implement data sharing within the

GIGDAG suggests compliance with 8320.02 is essential prerequisiteCreation and association of metadataPromote semantic and structural agreements for data sharingStructured data is a key ingredient Unifies common content – cost effectively

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Cost Benefit Analysis – The Process

Use of S1000D for integrating technical learning content and technical data in a common source databaseGoal: Reduction in the number of hours required to develop and manage technical informationFounded on 4 principles

Tech information structured in S1000DTech information stored in common source databaseConnect learning content development tools to source dataIdentify information that needs changed efficiently

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Cost Benefits Analysis - Results

Reduction of Life Cycle Support Hours Technical Manual 490 hrs (6%) One hour of courseware 66 hrs (16%)

Estimated 10-Year Savings Range from $32M to $165.5M Integrating HM&E tech manuals and CBT courses

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In conclusion…

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