The planning, including relevant applied math and physics, maybe some of it original, have been the keys to astounding DoD and many other projects done at low risk.
Like anything else, the planning can fail, but typically it is much cheaper than cutting metal, digging big holes in the ground, launching rockets, etc.
And if the planning fails, then just stop there -- cost so small it often won't be noticed. If the planning is successful, passes various reviews, etc., then are in line for some great results at low risk. In the commercial world, that would also be high ROI.
Like anything else, the planning can fail, but typically it is much cheaper than cutting metal, digging big holes in the ground, launching rockets, etc.
And if the planning fails, then just stop there -- cost so small it often won't be noticed. If the planning is successful, passes various reviews, etc., then are in line for some great results at low risk. In the commercial world, that would also be high ROI.