Understanding RAM - more than engineering for today

RAM (Reliability Availability Maintainability) is a well-established analytical method used by engineers to determine how often a machine is likely to fail and can it be repaired within given constraints. This method is used to measure the performance of the machine. However, RAM can also be used to assess the performance of administration and other process with the same degree of rigor and relevance.

The generally accepted definitions are as follow.

Reliability is the probability that an item will perform a required function, under stated conditions, for a stated period of time. This is essentially quality in the time domain.

Maintainability is the probability that a failed item will be restored to operational effectiveness within a given period of time when the repair action is performed in accordance with prescribed procedures.

These definitions are just as applicable to doctrine, policy, plans, protocols, environmental, or other management roles. RAM can be used to assess the performance of these roles. How reliable is the role and can it be repaired are relevant measures of role performance.

Our approach to RAM is to be more inclusive of situations other than engineered machines. We seek a deeper understanding of RAM in its different applications and philosophies. The reliability and maintainability of design and support processes to manufacture and support the machine are as at least as important as the machine itself.

One of the earliest examples of a wheeled vehicle is the Standard of Ur BCE2500. The vehicle shows that the designers of the time understood the principles of RAM.

The quest continues for a deeper understanding of RAM in its many applications, other than engineering, as a practical measure of performance. We are committed to the ongoing quest to understand the importance of RAM for the ongoing benefit to current and future civilizations.