LOCKHEED MARTIN FRAMEWORK
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Feb 20, 2024
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Waterfall Framework for Lockheed Martin
Framework Effectiveness
The efficacy of the Waterfall framework in the context of Lockheed Martin has been
remarkable, aligning seamlessly with the intricate aerospace and defense projects undertaken by
the company. The well-structured and sequential nature of Waterfall perfectly suits Lockheed
Martin's requirements for precision and dependability in their projects. Lockheed Martin
frequently engages in projects involving complex systems and rigorous demands, making a
linear approach like Waterfall immensely valuable for meticulous planning and execution
(Cotton & Liechty, 2015). Furthermore, the phased approach of the Waterfall model grants
Lockheed Martin the opportunity to conduct comprehensive design and testing at each stage,
ensuring a methodical and controlled development process. This is particularly vital in an
industry where errors can lead to severe consequences. By embracing Waterfall, Lockheed
Martin strategically responds to the challenges posed by their projects, emphasizing a systematic
progression through project phases.
Benefits Realized from Waterfall Implementation at Lockheed Martin
Implementing the Waterfall framework has yielded several noteworthy benefits for
Lockheed Martin. One significant advantage lies in enhanced quality control. The sequential
structure of Waterfall ensures that each phase undergoes thorough validation before transitioning
to the next, minimizing the risk of defects. Such commitment to quality aligns harmoniously with
Lockheed Martin's steadfast dedication to delivering reliable aerospace and defense systems
(Bieler, 2018).
Moreover, the Waterfall model effectively supports Lockheed Martin's need for extensive
documentation. In compliance with regulatory standards prevalent in the Aerospace and Defense
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industry, detailed documentation is imperative. By adhering rigorously to the Waterfall
framework, Lockheed Martin ensures meticulous documentation at every stage, promoting
transparency and traceability throughout the project life cycle.
Additionally, Lockheed Martin reaps benefits from the emphasis on risk management
within the Waterfall model. By proactively identifying and addressing risks early on in a project,
they can effectively mitigate potential challenges, ensuring projects remain on schedule and
within budget (Bacon, 2018). This commitment aligns seamlessly with Lockheed Martin's
determination to successfully deliver projects within an industry known for its propensity
towards unforeseen challenges.
Opportunities and Areas for Improvement
Accelerating Time-to-Market for Innovation
While successfully leveraging the Waterfall framework for managing complex and
regulated projects, Lockheed Martin recognizes the opportunity to explore avenues for
accelerating time-to-market for innovative solutions (Software Factory, n.d.). Given the nature of
the aerospace and defense industry, continuous innovation is paramount to stay ahead of
evolving threats and technological advancements. Lockheed Martin could potentially incorporate
agile practices within the Waterfall framework specifically for innovation-focused projects. By adopting a more iterative approach during the initial stages, the company can facilitate
rapid prototyping and experimentation, allowing for swift adaptation to emerging technologies.
For instance, in the development of advanced avionics systems, Lockheed Martin could consider
integrating agile methodologies during the preliminary design phase. This could involve cross-
functional teams collaborating closely to swiftly prototype and validate new features.
Competitors such as Boeing have successfully incorporated agile practices for innovation in
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select projects, demonstrating the potential benefits of a hybrid approach. Actively engaging end-
users and military personnel in the early stages of defense system development can provide
invaluable insights and ensure that the final product effectively meets their specific needs.
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References
Bacon, D. L. (2018).
An Agile Framework to Develop Safety Critical Software for Aircraft
(Doctoral dissertation, State University of New York at Binghamton).
Bieler, E. A. (2018).
Analyzing the United States Air Force agile transformation using a systems thinking approach
(Doctoral dissertation, Massachusetts Institute of Technology).
Cotton, W., & Liechty, J. (2015, October). Integrated Test Approach. In
Lockheed Martin Engineering Symposium
(No. JSC-CN-33811).
Software Factory. (n.d.). Lockheed Martin. Retrieved November 21, 2023, from https://www.lockheedmartin.com/en-us/capabilities/space/software-
factory.html#:~:text=We