Improving Acquisition Outcomes Through Simple System Technology Readiness Metrics

Abstract

This article advocates the use of simple technology readiness metrics that focus on system-wide technological maturity. Current DoD practice is to set guidelines for the maturity of individual system components, but the statistical evidence provided in this article demonstrates that more holistic metrics should be adopted. A simple system technology readiness metric is proposed and evaluated based on historical cost and schedule performance, and is shown to be potentially quite useful in avoiding poor acquisition outcomes. Finally, the policy implications of implementing a decision rule based on the metric are explored in depth, and the DoD is advised to pursue and encourage applied research for the development of more comprehensive technology readiness metrics.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Oct 01, 2012
Accession Number
ADA582716

Entities

People

  • Chad L. Dacus

Organizations

  • Air University

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Ground and Sea Platforms
  • Human Systems

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Acquisition
  • Complex Systems
  • Construction
  • Contractors
  • Cost Overruns
  • Costs
  • Department Of Defense
  • Engineering
  • Engineers
  • Governments
  • Military Acquisition
  • Military Personnel
  • Procurement
  • Standards
  • Systems Engineering
  • Test And Evaluation
  • United States

Readers

  • Defense Acquisition Program Management
  • Systems Analysis and Design