DoD Implementation of the Better Buying Power Initiatives
Abstract
The United States economy is in a phase of fiscal stress; however, if the rate of spending continues as it has during the last three presidential terms, the United States will soon experience a state of fiscal crisis. The United States must take measures to affect its rate of spending. Since the 1940s, the Department of Defense (DoD) has made trade-offs on the goals and priorities of stakeholders within the system -- also known as acquisition reform. This research assesses DoD's performance in implementing the last acquisition reform: the Better Buying Power initiatives (BBPi). Interviews were conducted at the Space Based Infrared Systems (SBIRS) program office and the Defense Acquisition University (DAU). The interviews focused on the execution of the BBPi within the SBIRS program and the training provided to the acquisition workforce on the BBPi by the DAU. The research found that training had been provided to the acquisition workforce by DAU, but DoD employees at the tactical level were not taking advantage of the initiatives because many viewed them as a "marching order" versus a suggestive starting point to create successful and innovative acquisition outcomes. The BBPi are an excellent first start to address past missteps; however, more guidance to the field is required for its successful implementation.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 01, 2012
- Accession Number
- ADA574786
Entities
People
- Shamika N. Woodruff
Organizations
- Naval Postgraduate School