scope:

These general guidelines cover the open system acquisition and supply processes.

There is an increasing requirement for systems designed and produced by industry, particularly in the aeronautic, space and defence fields, to be used with other systems designed, produced, acquired and operated independently.

The concept of open systems is touched upon in many systems engineering documents. This document deals specifically with this subject. To this end, through the various processes applied, it provides information to stakeholders (buyers, suppliers, designers, subcontractors, supervisors, etc.) on the best practice to be adopted.

The specific nature of openness for a system is defined by all the following properties:

- Interchangeability,

- Interoperability,

- Upgradability,

- Reusability,

- Reversibility,

- Flexibility,

- Affordability.