Best Practices: Better Acquisition Outcomes Are Possible If DOD Can Apply Lessons From F/A-22 Program
Abstract
Over the next 5 years, DODs overall investments are expected to average $150 billion a year to modernize and transition our forces. In addition, DOD must modernize its forces amid competing demands for federal funds, such as health care and homeland security. Therefore, it is critical that DOD manage its acquisitions in the most cost efficient and effective manner possible. DODs newest acquisition policy emphasizes the use of evolutionary, knowledge-based concepts that have proven to produce more effective and efficient weapon systems outcomes. However, most DOD programs currently do not employ these practices and, as a result, experience cost increases, schedule delays, and poor product quality and reliability. This testimony compares the best practices for developing new products with the experiences of the F/A-22 program. GAO is not making recommendations in this testimony. However, in a number of prior reports, GAO has recommended that DOD adopt policies with metrics for technology, design, and manufacturing maturity to support knowledge-based decision making. These policies should apply when making decisions on individual weapons programs.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 11, 2003
- Accession Number
- AD1166578
Entities
People
- David M. Walker
Organizations
- United States Government Accountability Office