Abstract
This paper proposes a novel methodology to overcome the outstanding
challenges in effectively assessing technology maturity to final
real-world applications. The Engineering Severity Level (ESL) is a
conceptual tool that provides a simple, standardised and quantitative
method of assessing technology suitability to real-world environments.
It is a standalone tool offering advantages in generating an evidence
base for accurate technology maturity assessment and early
identification of developmental roadblocks. Moreover, the tool can be
applied as a universal basis to enhance TRL classification and provide
further context and quantitative analysis. The benefits are exemplified
in the assessment of quantum technologies for Position, Navigation and
Timing (PNT) requirements in Defence applications.