As training and simulation technologies evolve, yielding systems of increasing functionality and intricacy, the interfaces within and among these systems have become correspondingly more complex. In turn, the task of building simulation systems to be interoperable and supportable becomes an ever-greater challenge. This circumstance has led the community to increase its interest in standards-based solutions as a means of controlling complexity, risk, and cost.

There are many niches where training and simulation-related standards are presently being defined and applied. Various sectors of the community actively participate in a multitude of standards-development efforts, and these efforts frequently result in the successful implementation of beneficial standards. However, each of these independent activities addresses standards only from a narrow perspective, such as Advanced Distributed Learning or Distributed Mission Operations. It has been suggested that standards have the potential to yield even greater benefits, which the community might maximize by implementing a more systematic approach to their selection and promulgation.

Recognizing this situation, the National Training and Simulation Association (NTSA), an organization representing the training and simulation industry, has formed a Standards Standing Committee (SSC). The SSC's role is to investigate standardization within a larger context, and provide advice on standards to its members. Its membership currently includes personnel from Government and Academia as well as Industry, collectively representing the perspectives of the total training and simulation community.

This paper introduces the newly formed NTSA SSC, and describes its role and mission. This paper will summarize the actions which have been accomplished by the SSC to date, and the potential impact of these achievements. Finally, it describes the goals and planned future activities of the group, their expected benefits, and how interested members of the community can become involved.

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Mike Finnern