Contact Us

Concept Development

Guiding ANSPs through ATM system replacement, helping ensure a safe, effective, and well-managed implementation.

Overview

Concept Development is the process by which a solution is defined to resolve an operational problem. The process begins at the initial identification of the problem, moving on to identification of the potential solution(s), then through the R & D process where the concept is refined, to the concept being implemented in the operational environment. Whether you are implementing an off-the-shelf product or need to consider developing something more bespoke to fit into your operational environment, at Think we have experience in working at all stages of the concept development lifecycle.

Contact Us

The concept development lifecycle

Problem definition

An ANSP or airport may need to change or improve its operation to increase safety, reduce workload, grow capacity, improve environmental performance, or cut costs. The main options are to modify the current operation, buy a new system or technology, or build one.

At this stage, the priority is to define the real problem and the outcome the organisation wants to achieve. This means reviewing the full operation through activities such as stakeholder workshops, user engagement, and community consultation, while also considering future goals and demands.

Throughout the concept lifecycle, it is important to involve the right stakeholders at the right time. Their feedback helps build support and provides valuable insight into how the concept will affect different users.

Solution Identification

An ANSP or airport may need to improve its operation to enhance safety, reduce workload, increase capacity, improve environmental performance, or lower costs. The main options are to adapt the current operation, buy a new system, or build one. At this stage, the focus is on clearly defining the problem, understanding the desired outcome, and engaging the right stakeholders to gather insight, build support, and shape a concept that meets both current and future needs.

 
 
Feasibility and Options

At this stage of the concept development lifecycle, whichever options/solutions have been identified for further consideration are explored more deeply.  During this phase, various activities are conducted to enable the right solution to be picked e.g. cost benefit analysis, human performance assessment, performance assessments, and appropriate validation and simulation activities according to the maturity of the concept.  The various options are narrowed down, and any deemed to not be suitable can be eliminated.

Concept Definition Stage

At this stage of the concept development lifecycle the solution is tested and refined further in an operationally representative environment, initially with a small core group of users. The pros and cons of the concept can be realised, and any potential showstoppers identified. Further testing, verification and validation activities will be conducted with a wider group of users. It is at this stage that software requirements are able to be defined. 

Deployment

During the deployment phase the concept system will be built, installed, integrated and validated within the operational environment. In this stage the operational staff will also be trained up on the new systems and new procedures.

How We Can Help

Think has extensive experience supporting future ATM concepts across Enroute, Approach, and Tower environments. We have worked on concept development projects from initial ideation through to implementation, including new controller support tools and changes to airspace, practices, and procedures.

From workshops and user groups to prototyping, CONOPS development, and fast and real time simulations, we can support your concept at every stage.

Our roots are in European research programmes, with deep involvement in SESAR since 2004, from the Definition phase through Development and SESAR 2020. This gives us a strong understanding of ATM R&D, emerging technologies, and what it takes to move a concept successfully towards implementation.

 
 

Get in Touch

Let’s discuss your next ATM or airport project and how we can support it.