Priorities for classifying problems

Priority Description MIL-STD-498 Description
1 Prevents end users from performing an essential task that results in work stoppages. The impact to project cost/schedule requires an immediate resolution and a special release may be necessary. a.Prevent the accomplishment of an operational or mission essential capability
2 Adversely affects end users from performing an essential task. Significant impact to project cost/schedule with resolution needed within 3 weeks. a. Adversely affect the accomplishment of an operational or mission essential capability and no work-around solution is known.
3 Hinders end users from performing an essential task or a capability is behind schedule. Impact to project cost/schedule with resolution needed within 6 weeks. a. Adversely affect the accomplishment of an operational or mission essential capability but a work-around solution is known.
4 Minor impact to end users or is a capability being developed per schedule. Can be resolved per normal release schedule. a. Result in user/operator inconvenience or annoyance but does not affect a required operational or mission essential capability.
5 An inconvenience or annoyance. Can be resolved as schedule and budget permits. Any other effect