Abstract:
A computer implemented method, apparatus, and computer usable program code for designing a product using technology readiness levels for materials. Entries identifying materials and technology readiness levels for the materials are stored in a database. A first design is developed using a first material selected from the database, wherein the first material has a first technology readiness level identified from the database. A second design is developed using a second material selected from the database, wherein the second material has a second technology readiness level identified from the database. The first design is compared to the second design using the first technology readiness level and the second technology readiness level to form a comparison. A selection is made between the first design and the second design using the comparison.