Risk Aversion vs. Technology Implementation.

Abstract

This report examines the key factors that inhibit the introduction of new technology into ongoing weapon systems. The effect of program manager (PM) risk aversion on this inhibition is evaluated. Factors causing PM risk aversion, including Department of Defense and Navy policies and procedures are considered. Results indicate major contributors to PM risk aversion include: risks taken that backfired, schedule pressure, program maturity, PM's relative loyalty to Self, Program, and Service, inadequate methods of measuring risk and inability to hedge or insure risk. Forces that keep new technology out of ongoing programs include cost constraints, risk averse PMs, and on rare occasion, higher level authority. (Author)

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Nov 01, 1977
Accession Number
ADA052386

Entities

People

  • Michael H. Hersh

Organizations

  • Defense Systems Management College

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Ground and Sea Platforms
  • Human Systems
  • Space
  • Weapons Technologies

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Acquisition
  • Air Force
  • Business Administration
  • Commerce
  • Defense Systems
  • Department Of Defense
  • Directives
  • Environment
  • Inhibition
  • Instructions
  • Management Personnel
  • Organizational Structure
  • Procurement
  • Program Management
  • Systems Engineering
  • Systems Management
  • Weapons

Readers

  • Defense Acquisition Program Management
  • Economics