The Strategic Distribution System in Support of Operation Enduring Freedom
Abstract
This documented briefing reports on research done as part of the Strategic Distribution program (SD), a joint endeavor of the U.S. Transportation Command (TRANSCOM) and the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) to improve the reliability and responsiveness of the Defense distribution system. This analysis is part of RAND's ongoing efforts to help these organizations shape the concept and strategy behind SD, and to aid in implementing process improvements. SD began in 2000 as a means of addressing problems in the distribution portion of the military supply chain. Since the effort began, SD has produced a process improvement methodology that has resulted in distribution processes that move materiel and personnel more quickly, reliably, and efficiently. Earlier initiatives such as the Army's Velocity Management (VM) had already demonstrated the successes that can result from a systematic analysis of end-to- end processes and the empowerment of a committed team of military logisticians. SD has extended these process improvements to the joint level. During its first year, SD laid the groundwork for major change. It established an organization to pursue improvement, developed measurement tools to capture successes and failures, and developed its strategic concept, headed by senior leaders from DLA and TRANSCOM. Committees were established to oversee SD efforts in four areas: stock positioning, air distribution, surface distribution, and financial management within the Defense Transportation System (DTS). These committees are led by senior officers from the DLA Defense Distribution Center (DDC), Air Force Air Mobility Command (AMC), TRANSCOM's Military Surface Deployment and Distribution Command (MSDDC), and TRANSCOM, respectively. An executive agent, two co-directors, and a common analytical agency coordinate complementary efforts and initiatives among the four committees.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 01, 2004
- Accession Number
- ADA426623
Entities
People
- Kristin Leuschner
- Marc Robbins
- Patricia Boren
Organizations
- RAND Corporation