Improving DoD Relations with Industry.
Abstract
Dod's relations with industry have seldom, if ever, been worse. A wide range of issues divide the parties. Defense industry officials believe that costs and risks are being shifted unjustly from DoD to industry and complain that the defense business is being 'criminalized'. Many in Government, on the other hand, share a sense that industry has been skirting the acquisition regulations, engaging in a game of 'catch me if you can'. Acquisition managers on both sides believe that unprecendented and unwarranted forays into DoD procurement and program management by DoD's increasingly powerful auditors and inspectors have exacerbated the strains in the relationship. Tensions between DoD and its contractors are inherent in the political and regulatory environment in which they operate. The political environment is characterized by record-level defense and an attendant spotlight on real and perceived procurement problems. The regulatory environment is distinguished by the unique dual role of DoD, acting as both customer and regulator. Given this environment, strains are to be expected. If they are to be controlled, communication and understanding must be promoted. Yet, DoD has no established mechanism for maintaining a structured dialogue with the defense industry on the important issues of the day.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 1987
- Accession Number
- ADA194664
Entities
People
- Charles W. Cruit
- Harry M. Tayloe
- Robert S. Young
Organizations
- LMI