Which of the following best represents the goal of test and evaluation in systems acquisition?

The goal of test and evaluation in systems acquisition is fundamentally about validating system performance before production. This process ensures that the system meets the established requirements and standards set forth during the acquisition process. By conducting rigorous testing and evaluation, organizations can ascertain that the system functions as intended and that it fulfills its operational requirements. This validation step is critical to minimize risks associated with system failures and to ensure that the final product will perform effectively in real-world conditions.

Successful validation during test and evaluation leads to informed decision-making before moving into production and deployment phases, thereby enhancing the likelihood of project success and user satisfaction in the long run. This focus on validating system performance aligns with best practices in systems acquisition management, emphasizing the importance of due diligence to ensure operational readiness and reliability of the final product.