Which statement best describes life cycle cost considerations in AOA?

• A. Life cycle cost is a key factor evaluated along with mission effectiveness and operational suitability.
• B. It is the only factor evaluated.
• C. It is ignored in early decision making.
• D. It is considered only after deployment.

Answer: (A)

In an Analysis of Alternatives, you compare options by looking at how well they meet the mission and how feasible they are to operate and sustain, while also weighing the total cost of owning and operating the system over its entire life. Life cycle cost captures all costs from development through disposal, not just the purchase price, so it directly informs value and risk across the program’s duration. This is why the statement that life cycle cost is a key factor evaluated alongside mission effectiveness and operational suitability is the best description—it reflects how cost, performance, and feasibility are balanced together to guide a sound decision.

It’s not the only factor, so it isn’t the sole determinant; decisions aren’t made ignoring cost or performance. Life cycle cost isn’t ignored in the early stages, and it’s not something that’s considered only after deployment. Considering it early helps avoid selecting an option that seems cheap upfront but carries prohibitive maintenance, logistics, or downtime later.