Similar Equipment Method
The primary objective of prediction during the early stages of a project (i.e., preliminary study, feasibility study, early project definition) is to provide quantitative estimates of reliability that can be used to:
• Compare design options.
• Establish realistic reliability targets.
• Identify areas of high risk.
• Provide inputs to trade off studies.
In general, such predictions will be concerned mainly with assessments at system and sub-system level and, because information is limited during early stages, will usually involve a considerable degree of engineering judgement.