SUMMIT can be used to investigate “what-if” scenarios by varying a range of parameters including: recruitment, retention, promotion patterns, attitudinal factors and economic data.

The core of the tool is a month-by-month calculation of the flow of manpower through a force comprising a specified set of ranks and distribution of Length of Service.

All the elements of the flow can be represented as equations that depend on variables whose future evolution is defined by the user. Thus the evolution of future manpower can be determined as a function of the variation of a series of projected changes to the economy, attitudes to life in the services and demographic changes. To enable a more general analysis of future policy, the SUMMIT tool includes three possible forecasting modes:

• evolution of trained strength.
• recruitment and promotion requirements.
• requirements for retention.

The software provides data editing and visualisation functionality, including the ability to exchange data with Microsoft Excel. SUMMIT’s data visualisation tool allows a graphical representation of data to be viewed whilst the data is being edited or model calculations are being performed. This allows the user to quickly identify trends and patterns in input and output data.

SUMMIT was developed using RAD techniques and an Object Orientated modelling approach. This approach, together with our commitment to developing strong customer relationships, has resulted in complete customer satisfaction.

In addition to developing the SUMMIT toolkit, NSC provides experienced analysts on an on-going basis to support the Dstl (Policy & Capability Studies) Manning Study, which investigates the tri-service future force structure using SUMMIT.

SUMMIT is developed in partnership between NSC and QinetiQ.