A CoDR is conducted at the end of the concept phase. The aim of the CoDR is to confirm that the ‘problem’ has been thoroughly explored and is well understood. Candidate technologies, technology trends, technology options, the status of work already done and still planned by precursors, design studies and other pathfinder arrays is reviewed at this point.
At SKA CoDRs the concepts presented may include a range of options. The CoDR review will focus on whether first order solutions have been identified and are appropriate. Work in advancing fundamental technologies known to be critical to the element may also be reported if this is supportive of the concept and its feasibility. Concept Design Reviews are therefore the culmination of the Concept phase of development where the demonstration of feasibility is the objective. In subsequent phases of the project technology options will be investigated and selections will be made.
The Review Panel is requested to consider the following questions:
1. Are the requirements complete, and sufficiently defined for this stage of the project?
2. At the concept level, is the element/subsystem presented capable of meeting the requirements?
3. Have interfaces to other aspects of the system been adequately identified and defined at this stage of the program?
4. Are the options proposed to be carried forward credible and are the presented data and information in support of each option credible?
5. Have all the necessary aspects of the specific element/subsystem been considered and addressed during the review or are there gaps and/or shortcomings?
6. Does the risk profile appear reasonably detailed and correctly assessed for this stage of the program?
7. Do the stated risk controls and proposed mitigations appear reasonable and executable?
8. Is the overall plan (including the identification of the tasks, effort, resources, costs, schedule and risk mitigation needed) to complete the subsequent project phases credible?