What is considered a recommended starting point for building ConOps?

The recommended starting point for building a Concept of Operations (ConOps) is aggregating input-output behavior threads. This approach is essential because it captures the essential functions and interactions between system components, as well as how these components will perform under various scenarios. Input-output behavior threads allow teams to visualize system operations and the flow of information, providing a foundation for understanding user needs and system capabilities.

By establishing these behavior threads early in the process, systems engineers can ensure that the ConOps accurately reflects the intended use of the system and meets stakeholder requirements. This foundational understanding is crucial as it drives the development of subsequent system specifications and helps identify potential operational challenges or scenarios that need to be addressed later in the lifecycle.

While consulting with all stakeholders is also vital to gaining a comprehensive understanding of requirements, aggregating input-output behavior threads sets the groundwork for defining the operational context in which the system will function.