COMPETITION IN THE REPROCUREMENT PROCESS
Abstract
The report presents a study of the problems of providing access to existing technology in order to overcome some of the barriers to price competition in the reprocurement of weapon system components, accessories, support equipment, and other specialized items. Entry of new firms into the production of technical hard goods is often hampered by three major barriers: (1) high-start-up costs; (2) the original developer's possession of patents or proprietary rights to technical information; (3) the Government's inability to provide new firms with technological rights and with data sufficient to support competitive production. Although the Government has generated some new policies on the collection and dissemination of data to potential suppliers, the percentage of reprocurements resulting from this dissemination is small and much essential information is not included in data packages. The aerospace industry has had vast experience in the transfer of production technology through the use of commercial licensing arrangements. The techniques used commercially could be adapted to reprocurement under a policy of directed licensing. The Government would derive several advantages from such a policy, including increased competition.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 01, 1968
- Accession Number
- AD0670567
Entities
People
- James W. Mckie
- Robert E. Johnson
Organizations
- RAND Corporation