Understanding Acquisition Cycle Time: Focusing the Research Problem
Abstract
This research assessed defense acquisition cycle-time and cycle-time growth by formulating questions focused on how to better understand cycle-time, reviewing data analyses, and identifying additional data and assessments regarding cycle time. The research identified three management problems concerning cycle-time: setting realistic schedules, reducing schedule growth, and reducing cycle-times. The five research findings are that (1) while major weapon system acquisition programs are getting longer, there is less evidence of actual problems that increasing cycle-times either cause or indicate; (2) low priority is given to setting initial schedules; (3) pursuit of ambitious technical capabilities within a system that does not provide mechanisms for identifying and reducing technical risk contributes to long cycle-times; (4) developmental shortfalls requiring more work and time than initially planned are not identified and addressed early on; and (5) little progress has been made in shortening cycle-times. Four research areas were identified and elaborated into a work plan for future research: Priority and Focus how important is cycle-time in decision processes; how do processes for setting schedules reflect management priorities? Requirements Definition how do program requirements impact program schedules? Management and Oversight how are schedules set, assessed, and evaluated? Program Definition and Characteristics how do different types of programs affect program length? How well can program schedules be predicted?
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 01, 2013
- Accession Number
- ADA606685
Entities
People
- Richard H. Van Atta
Organizations
- Institute for Defense Analyses