An Investigation of Certain U.S. Government 'Lessons Learned' Processes and Their Application to USAF Research, Development, and Acquisition Project Managers
Abstract
This study investigated the types of processes used by certain U.S. government agencies to provide 'lessons learned' that could be used by USAF research, development and acquisition project managers. Areas of interest include the types of agencies that could provide 'lessons learned;' the sources, methods, and techniques these agencies use to process (acquire, maintain, and disseminate) management information such as lessons learned; and the measurement criteria the agencies use to evaluate the effectiveness of these processes. A general literature search helped to identify eleven candidate agencies; eight were chosen for full investigation. A survey of each sample agency was conducted. The survey obtained agency description information/materials for review, then used follow-up interviews to clarify/update that information. Final information was analyzed using nominal sorting and scoring techniques. Results indicated 'information gatherer' and 'resource provider' agencies tended to have 'lessons learned' programs, while 'evaluator' and 'oversight/management' agencies did not. A similar pattern was seen regarding the use of 'information/lessons learned' process metrics. Several changes to improve 'lessons learned' processes were suggested.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 01, 1991
- Accession Number
- ADA246732
Entities
People
- Mark W. Mcnabb
Organizations
- Air Force Institute of Technology