Management and Support of Commercial Off-the-Shelf (COTS) Computer Resources Used in Weapon System Applications
Abstract
The purpose of this thesis was to improve the AFLC commercial off- the-shelf (COTS) mission critical computer resources (MCCR) acquisition and support strategy. A review of current service and command regulations pertaining to the management and support of mission critical, automated data processing (ADP), and nondevelopmental (NDI) commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) computer resources, plus recently-completed studies on this topic (e.g., AFLC studies and GAO reports) was used to identify the advantages and disadvantages of procuring and supporting COTS computer resources. A review of the AFLCR 800-21 commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) policy revealed the support approach for COTS computer resources was similar to the support strategy used for military specified (MIL- SPEC) equipment and did not address the unique supportability requirements associated with commercial and commercial-type computer resources. Using the problems noted in the AFLCR 800-21 review, a list of critical supportability issues was developed, focusing mainly on the availability of commercial contractor logistics support. The review of the Air Force, Army, and Navy regulations revealed a number of innovative management and support policies which could be used to resolve the critical supportability issues. (KR)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 01, 1988
- Accession Number
- ADA201589
Entities
People
- Gerald A. Schumacher
Organizations
- Air Force Institute of Technology