Mapping the Application Usability Level Framework to the Technology Readiness Levels and Other Readiness Levels

Abstract:

Tracking a project or team's productivity, progress, and usability can help with the management and development and planning of institutions and programs. Having metrics that are easy to use and interpret can help determine the success of a program, identify where roadblocks exist, and help plan for future directions and resources which may be needed. Using a single framework at an institution can ensure clear communication when reporting progress across programs and project types. When comparing two or more projects for a specific use (i.e. the same application and requirements), using a single framework ensures consistency of understanding for each project's current progress. It also has the added benefit of not having to learn new frameworks when moving to a new project.

The AUL framework was developed to be general enough that all types of projects can comfortably use the framework while calling out the important milestones to be met for advancement. This was achieved by taking the lessons learned and best practices identified from other tracking frameworks while working with and keeping in mind the range of potential users. Within this paper, we will take a retrospective look to show how the TRLs and the RLs can be directly mapped to the AULs while allowing more project and program flexibility.