An evaluation of operational effectiveness and operational suitability made by an independent operational test activity, with user support as required, on other than production systems. The focus of an operational assessment is on significant trends noted in development efforts, programmatic voids, areas of risk, adequacy of requirements, and the ability of the program to support adequate operational testing. Operational assessments may be made at any time using technology demonstrators, prototypes, mockups, engineering development models, or simulations but will not substitute for the independent operational test and evaluation necessary to support full production decisions.