COTS: How far should it go?

[adciv]

One of the mentors on my team complains about having access to a machine shop & CNC machinery. One day I may ask him if he expects us to wind our own motors or smelt our own copper.

Once you're in industry, you're expected to look at what is out there first before designing something from scratch. You are not (usually) being payed to reinvent the wheel. If it already exists and meets the requirements, it's typically cheaper to use than invent yourself.

I think the COTS items help create a more level playing field. Several of you are now asking "How does that work". Where it helps is for those teams who don't have access to full machine shops and water jets. Being able to purchase premade components off the shelf helps level the playing field with those teams. It's a matter of tradeoffs and picking your battles.