Cost As an Independent Variable (CAIV) methodologies are used to acquire and operate affordable DoD systems by setting aggressive, achievable life-cycle cost objectives, and managing achievement of these objectives by trading off performance and schedule, as necessary. Cost objectives balance mission needs with projected out-year resources, taking into account anticipated process improvements in both DoD and industry. CAIV has brought attention to the government's responsibilities for setting/adjusting life-cycle cost objectives and for evaluating requirements in terms of overall cost consequences.