DOD Acquisition Reform: Leadership Attention Needed to Effectively Implement Changes to Acquisition Oversight
Abstract
Amid concerns about the ability of DODs acquisition process to keep pace with evolving threats, Congress included numerous reforms in recent National Defense Authorization Acts that could help to streamline acquisition oversight and field capabilities faster. GAO was asked to examine DODs efforts to implement these reforms. This report addresses (1) the progress DOD has made implementing selected oversight reforms related to major defense acquisition programs; (2) how DOD has used middle-tier acquisition pathways; and (3) challenges DOD faces related to reform implementation. GAO reviewed five reforms: milestone decision authority designation; cost, fielding, and performance goals; independent technical risk assessments; restructuring of acquisition oversight offices; and middle-tier acquisition. GAO analyzed applicable statutes and implementing guidance, collected information from DOD about the number and types of middle-tier acquisition programs, reviewed relevant documentation, and interviewed DOD officials.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 2019
- Accession Number
- AD1153136
Entities
People
- Alyssa Weir
- Anne L. Taylor
- Anne Mcdonough
- Cheryl Andrew
- David Dornisch
- David Wishard
- Juli Steinhouse
- Marie Ahearn
- Melissa Pope
- Peter W. Anderson
- Sara Sullivan
- Scott Purdy
- Shelby S. Oakley
Organizations
- United States Government Accountability Office