The term interoperability is often co-mingled with the term modularity, which unfortunately allows for different definitions. To the government, the terms both indicate that a subsystem developed by Company ABC can be used in a system developed by Company XYZ. To some companies, the term simply means they can use swap their own subsystems in their systems. In the example of a human patient simulator, Company ABC could sell an arm capable of IV training, and a broken army for splint training, both guaranteed to work in their torso. While certainly modular, this does not align with the government’s concept.

There are several players with interest in interoperable training systems. Within the Department of Defense (DoD) there is a stated preference to adhere to the tenets of MOSA – Modular Open Systems Approach – so DoD program managers have an interest. Research organizations, with their limited budgets, obviously prefer the reuse afforded by interoperable systems. Training centers and schoolhouses can’t afford to purchase multiple manikins just to be able to train treatment of different injuries.

The government should not overlook the concerns of industry, both large and small businesses, however. Businesses, small and large, did not develop proprietary standards without considering the financial impact to their business. Still, in an era of dwindling financial resources, companies that offer true interoperability will be rewarded for their efforts.

While many in smaller, niche markets may consider interoperability and open systems as “the next new thing”, they have been practiced for many years in other training arenas. By researching the lessons learned from other communities that have instituted more rigor into their MOSA policies, smaller modeling & simulation communities can leverage open systems to better take advantage of interoperability.

The purpose of this panel is to present multiple views and opinions on the promises – and pitfalls – of true interoperability and a MOSA-based approach to developing training simulations. Panel members will include industry members, acquisition program managers, and government R&D leaders, representing large and small communities. For some, interoperability is indeed "the next big thing". For others, interoperability and open systems have been applied for several years.

While medical simulation is represented heavily on the panel, the concepts and lessons learned can apply to many other smaller markets as well.