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This study attempted to identify the extent to which firms have taken the position of refusing to participate in Department of Defense business and the principal reasons for this refusal. A survey questionnaire was sent to companies identified as refusing DOD business as well as a random sample of companies selected from various industries. An analysis of the responses indicates that approximately 20% of the surveyed firms refuse DOD business due to such reasons as burdensome paperwork, Government bidding methods, more attractive commercial ventures and Government attitudes. The study analyzes examples of each of these reasons as well as twenty-two additional problem areas. Implications of small versus large business and prime contractor versus subcontractor views are examined., Chief of Naval Research

http://archive.org/details/ataxonomicpproac1094526293, NA

In order to avoid unnecessary, time consuming, and costly litigation, the Department of Defense, and more specifically the United States Navy, has adopted the use of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) to resolve contract disputes. One of the less-used but highly successful ADR techniques is known as the Mini-Trial. The primary goals of this thesis are to provide contracting professionals and attorneys with a better understanding of the Mini-Trial, explore how the Navy might make better use of the technique, and outline the steps the Navy should take to further implement its use. The thesis provides information on the Mini-Trial's background, factors for use, advantages and disadvantages, format, and roles of participants. The researcher found that there are a number of issues surrounding the Mini-Trial including; problems with neutrals and principals, and the perception that the Navy was reluctant to use the technique. Principal findings from the research revealed that there are key measures of success for the Mini-Trial, that barriers exist to convince contractors to participate, that there are certain conditions for its use, and that the Navy will increase its use of the technique in the further. Principal recommendations are that the Navy should not second guess its principals, ensure settlement funds are paid promptly, establish an agency ombudsman to answer ADR questions, and conduct face-to-face discussions with contractors to convince them that the Mini-trial and ADR are in both parties' best interest, http://archive.org/details/minitrialvaluabl00morg, Lieutenant Commander, United States Navy, Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.

The primary purpose of this thesis is to provide a case analysis of the contract closeout process at DCMC Lockheed Martin (LM). The contract closeout policies and procedures at DCMC Headquarters are analyzed to develop a basis of comparison for DCMC LM. Secondary objectives include analysis of factors affecting untimely contract closeout, both DCMC-wide and at DCMC LM, and comparison of metrics results to analyze DCMC LM's progress in contract closeout. The current DCMC LM initiatives leading to increased contract closeout efficiency are discussed, and alternative closeout metrics are investigated. Finally, recommendations are made on the applicability of the DCMC LM initiatives to other organizations throughout DCMC., http://archive.org/details/acasestudyofcont1094532681, NA, U.S. Army (USA) author, Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the quality of the preparation that contracting professionals receive prior to contingency contracting situations. This was accomplished by exploring the literature on this subject and then comparing the findings and recommendations found with recent experience of contracting professionals returning from Desert Shield and Desert Storm. Contingency contracting issues analyzed include the identification of critical demands, effectiveness of current preparation, effects of laws and regulations, and contingency contracting tools. As a result of this analysis, it can be concluded that current instruction and on-the-job training is sufficient to provide contracting professionals with the requisite competence for contingency contracting situations. There is a need to involve contracting professionals early in the contingency planning process. Current laws and regulations did not constrain procurement of supplies and services during Desert Shield/Storm. The use of contingency contracting tools are paramount to the success of the contracting function in a contingency contracting situation and need to be assembled well in advance. This study recommends the continued education and training of contracting professionals in its present form, raising the thresholds for SF 44's and small purchase procedures for contingency situations, and improvement of contingency contracting kits., http://archive.org/details/preparingforunex1094528462, Captain, U.S. Marine Corps, Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.

http://archive.org/details/reducingsupplier1094526722, NA

This research effort focused on the contracting history of the U.S. Marine Corps Advanced Amphibious Assault Vehicle (AAAV) Program. The research answered the primary question of what were the critical contracting decisions that have been made during the program and how would an analysis of these contracting decisions affect the future of the AAAV program. Interviews were conducted with personnel from the AAAV program office and other Government agencies as well as with contractor employees. Additionally, program documents and other relevant literature was reviewed. The key findings of the research effort conclude that the unique collocation arrangement of the AAAV program office and the contractor should be emulated by other Major Defense Acquisition Programs (MDAPs); Integrated Product Teams (IPTs) and the Integrated Product and Process Development (IPPD) concept is effective in improving communications between the Government and the contractor; and Unique contract clauses used in the Concept Demonstration and Validation contract were effective in incentivizing the contractor. The unique contract clauses examined were: mandatory geographic location of the contractor's facility, collocation of the AAAV program office with the contractor, a Special Design Decision Provision, and contractor cost sharing. The research effort presents recommendations on how these aspects of the AAAV program can be applied to other MDAPs., http://archive.org/details/acasestudyofadva1094532620, NA, U.S. Marine Corps (U.S.M.C.) author., Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.

The Federal Acquisition Regulation prescribes the fundamental procedures of supplier sourcing process to be used and followed by the Government contracting officers after the purchase request has been received. Many commercial publications also promulgate the principles of the supplier sourcing process. As a foreign purchasing office in the United States, supplier sourcing is the most critical issue in the Republic of China Defense Procurement Division. This thesis compares the current supplier sourcing process as outlined in the Federal Acquisition Regulation, at a US Navy Inventory Control Point and at two private sector companies who specialize in providing hard-to-find repair parts, with the Republic of China Defense Procurement Division. The results of this thesis are some recommendations that would help improve the Republic of China Defense Procurement Division's supplier sourcing process., http://archive.org/details/annalysisofrepub1094526873, Lieutenant, Republic of China Navy, Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.

http://archive.org/details/aclassificationn1094525737, NA

The Defense Fuel Supply Center is the primary buying agent for most of the petroleum used by the Department of Defense and other Government agencies. Purchasing nearly 200 million barrels of oil per year, the Fuel Center's costs have varied dramatically depending upon the market price of oil. One creative idea for stabilizing costs and reducing price risk exposure is to hedge purchases in the cash market with the use of futures contracts. This thesis examines and assesses the ramifications of futures trading in light of current procurement practices, market conditions, and trends, in an effort to answer the question of whether this proposed strategy is viable or wise, http://archive.org/details/shoulddefensefue1094526762, Lieutenant, United States Navy, Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.

The Army is currently developing the Performance Risk Assessment Group (PRAG) program as a measure to maximize the use of past performance in the source selection process. The use of past performance is becoming increasingly important as the defense budget gets smaller and the use of commercially accepted business practices becomes more emphasizes. A program to evaluate past performance can better ensure the Army gets a quality product at a fair price. The Army Material Command developed the 'Past Performance in Source Selection; An Evaluation Guide' to assist buying commands in implementing the PRAG effort. This thesis analyses that guide, identifies its strengths and weaknesses, and makes recommendations to maximize its use, http://archive.org/details/maximizinguseofp1094528350, Captain, United States Army, Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.

Government arsenals and depots have traditionally provided DoD with a controlled source of depot-level maintenance capability. With the Cold War over and a shift in national priorities, DoD looks for cost savings and improved efficiency to save its shrinking budget dollars. As it looks for new ways of doing business, DoD looks to outsourcing as an option for depot-level maintenance, but is limited by statutory restrictions on such outsourcing. Both the policy and procedures remain hotly contested issues. When conducting the study to compete public and private capability, several factors and options should be considered throughout the overall process from the requirements determination to the final source selection. An important finding of this research is that particularly for new weapons systems, the Services are often rushing to outsource without considering life-cycle costs and other key factors. Recommendations to improve the process are to: establish a better definition of core, enforce life-cycle determination, make use of in-house excess capacity, maximize the use of partnering, improve training for those involved in preparing the in-house MEO estimate, outsource A-76 support, and continue to improve upon Government accounting procedures., http://archive.org/details/doddepotlevelmai1094532627, NA, U.S. Army (USA) author, Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.

Contract disputes between the Department of Defense (DoD) and its contractors are steadily rising. This growth in Government contract litigation is fueled in large part by the myriad of procurement regulations and laws that now permeate to the acquisition and contracting arena. This thesis first explores previous Government attempts to arrest the proliferation of litigation through the Contract Disputes Act of 1978, and then discusses initial attempts at utilizing alternative disputes resolution (ADR) methods as alternatives to traditional courtroom battles. One such ADR methodology is the minitrial, which has been used successfully by private industry since the early 1980's. Details of a typical' minitrial are provided, including its advantages and disadvantages. Additionally, criteria are established to assist in determining whether a minitrial would be beneficial in resolving disputes between the DoD and one of its defense contractors. Finally, recommendations are presented for utilizing ADR, specifically the minitrial, as a viable alternative to litigation, http://archive.org/details/applicationofmin1094526385, Lieutenant Commander, Supply Corps, United States Navy, Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.

The primary objective of this thesis was to analyze the suitability for use of the Award Fee Types of Contracts in the Israeli Ministry of Defense. The researcher used the Navy's Supervisor of Shipbuilding, Conversion and Repair award fee monitoring organization as a sample for comparison with the Israeli Ministry of Defense organization. The purpose for this comparison was to determine if there was an organization structure barrier that would prevent implementation of the Award Fee Types of Contracts. Other barriers were identified and discussed through the use of a written survey conducted with key personnel within the Israeli Ministry of Defense. A guide was developed for use when implementing the Award Fee Types of Contracts. The analysis revealed that there were no barriers that could not be overcome and that the benefits to be gained by incorporating the Award Fee Types of Contracts far outweigh any impediments. It was recommended that the Israeli Ministry of Defense consider incorporating these types of contracts into their procurement regulations after evaluating the results of a test case., http://archive.org/details/thesuitabilityof1094528579, Israeli Ministry of Defense (MOD), Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.

This thesis is a continuation of research initiated by Lieutenant Commander Daniel F. Ryan, SC , USN to establish a basis for defining words and terms used in the field of contracting. The 20 terms defined in this thesis were selected from a master list of contracting/procurement terms compiled by previous researchers. The methodology used to reach a consensus definition was to: (1) synthesize a definition from current published sources, (2) validate these definitions through an opinion survey of a selected group of contracting professionals, and (3) finalize definitions based on a consensus from all sources. Students at the Naval Postgraduate School, Monterey, CA and The Air Force Institute of Technology, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Dayton, OH are conducting concurrent research on this topic., http://archive.org/details/adictionaryofcqu1094528126, Lieutenant, Supply Corps, United States Navy, Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.

The Davenport Process Innovation Framework is used to analyze the standard procurement process for innovation. Constrained resources and rapid advancements in Information Technology have caused DoD to seek high levels of improvement in key processes, such as procurement, because of the high costs and long cycle times associated with contracting activities. The SPS is intended to increase efficiency by automating the process. However, simply automating the process may not bring about the quantum level of benefits sought by DoD. Following Davenport's methodology, the standard procurement process flow is described, problems with the baseline process are assessed and a redesigned process alternative is presented that addresses these shortcomings. Measurements of the redesigned process show it to be a significant improvement over the existing process and to offer good potential for cycle time reduction. Costs required to support this initiative may prove to be a formidable constraint, however, and the risk exists that DoD may not be able to financially support full SPS implementation in the standard procurement process. Therefore, continued innovation is recommended. Further study is also required to investigate other innovation methodologies and ideas that may be suited for the standard procurement process., http://archive.org/details/innovatingstanda1094532663, NA, U.S. Marine Corps (U.S.M.C.) author., Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.

This thesis was an attempt to classify, analyze, and summarize a selected, finite body of acquisition and contracting literature. The primary objective of this thesis was to apply an existing taxonomy to the complete library of a publication that is representative of contracting literature. Analysis of the results of this classification effort provided conclusive information about focal points and trends in the literature and the evolution of the contracting discipline. A secondary objective of this thesis was to evaluate the effectiveness and usefulness of the taxonomy used to classify the literature. This evaluation included a recommendation for improving the taxonomy. The final objective of this thesis was to compile an annotated bibliography of all the articles printed in this publication. Each bibliography included a summary of how the article was classified after applying the taxonomy, http://archive.org/details/aclassificationn1094526411, NA

This study examines the potential impacts of the DoD emphasizing the use of parametric cost estimating methods or techniques in the acquisition process. As one of many initiatives to improve the DoD acquisition process through use of commercial practices, parametric cost estimating has the potential to be helpful in many applications for which it had never before been considered. This study, conducted through a questionnaire, personal interviews and a review of recently released publications from the DoD Joint Government/ Industry Initiative, identifies areas of interest for those anticipating using parametric cost estimating methods and techniques. These areas include the Program Definition & Risk Reduction and Engineering & Manufacturing Development phases of program management as well as for many pre-award contract actions. The data from this thesis show that the majority of the personnel in the DoD acquisition community believe that parametric cost estimating methods can be used effectively in those areas. The data also show that the methods also may have applications in the Production, Fielding/Deployment & Operational Support phase of program management and post-award contract actions such as negotiating changes, forward pricing rate agreements, or analyzing claims, http://archive.org/details/theeffectsofpoli1094526522, Lieutenant Commander, United States Navy, Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.

Management, As weapon systems have become more complex and costly, the DoD has explored a variety of methods to decrease the acquisition cycle, reduce costs, and enhance performance of the systems acquired. Current DoD initiatives have focused upon reducing Government specifications and activities that are not cost effective. This has lead to a reexamination of Government policies and practices regarding oversight of contractors. This shift toward a more team-oriented approach to weapon systems acquisition has caused a change in the management techniques used by the Government, and consequently, has impacted the structure and relationships between the Government organizations responsible for monitoring and controlling contract performance. This thesis develops a continuum of organizational models based upon the level of control the Government desires in managing a weapon system program. The need for control is based upon the confidence and trust placed in the contractor's capabilities and motivations. The U.S. Marine Corps Advanced Amphibious Assault Vehicle program is then analyzed in terms of the continuum to develop a generic model of the structure and inter-organizational agreements needed to promote a culture of partnership, between industry and the various Government agencies that are responsible for contract management., http://archive.org/details/contractdministr1094532189, NA, U.S. Marine Corps (U.S.M.C.) author., Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.

Project management has evolved as a successful tool to manage complex weapon systems. As budgets decline, Department of Defense project managers are challenged to improve their skills and competencies for successful project management. While the current literature specifies the overall requirements necessary for successful project management, it does not detail and describe how those requirements are to be fulfilled on a daily basis. The puqjose of this thesis is to provide future project managers with an in-depth glimpse of how a successful project manager operates in real time. The project manager of the Army Tactical Missile System (TACMS) was selected to study because he was named by the Army as the 1991 Project Manager of the Year. The analysis is based on interviews with the Project Manager (PM), his team, and outside stakeholders, such as the office of the Program Executive Officer. This research identifies two areas of factors that impact success: factors within the PM's control and factors beyond the PM's control. Further analysis of the factors within the PM's control identified three domains of competencies: leadership, stakeholder relations, and management. This research presents the approaches used by the Army TACMS PM to manage the three domains while achieving successful project management., http://archive.org/details/dynamicsofsucces00myri, Captain, United States Army, Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.

Increased operational tempo, workforce reductions, and demanding legislation are creating a challenging environment for enlisted personnel serving in the conting ency contracting force. Each branch of the U.S. military has responded differently to these challenges. The United States Marine Corps is heavily dependent upon enlisted personnel who are assigned the 3044 Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) to perform contingency contracting. This thesis explores the current environment, within which these contingency contracting Marines operate, and analyzes the affect this environment is having on their career development. The study begins with an examination of th e historical development of contingency contracting, and a reviews Government commissions that called for reform, which resulted in the establishment of the Defense Acquisition Workforce Improvement Act (DAWIA). The research then describes the requirement s levied against contracting personnel under DAWIA and how they affect the enlisted military personnel. With this framework in place the study then evaluates the resulting approach to utilizing enlisted personnel for contingency contracting within the Mil itary Services (Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines). This evaluation focuses on the organizational structure, education opportunities, training, career development, and employment of enlisted personnel within each of these Military Services and how this understanding can improve the career development of 3044s., http://archive.org/details/annalysisofperso109453549, Major, United States Marine Corps, Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.

This thesis represents the results of research on cost impact assessment of cost accounting practice changes to Cost Account Standards- covered contracts. The objectives of the research were to explore the current environment in which cost impact is measured and to develop a structured approach to aid the decision-maker in the assessment. The requirements of the Cost Accounting Standards and Administration of Cost Accounting Standards Clauses, the regulatory guidance available to Department of Defense contract administrators and the pricing methodologies utilized to assess cost impact were investigated. The Cost Accounting Standards administration process was modeled and utilized to construct a sequential, streamlined set of procedures with which the cost impact assessment process can be approached. A need for greater guidance from DOD on the process, an amendment of the Administration of Cost Accoxmting Standards Clause, a better system of tracking the Contract Universe and the introduction of flexibility into the choice of methodologies was recognized., http://archive.org/details/costimpactassess00ande, Lieutenant, Supply Corps, United States Navy, Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.

Public Law 101-510, Defense Acquisition Workforce Improvement Act (DAWlA) became effective upon its passage for Fiscal Year 1992. The intent of the legislation is to increase the training and professionalism of the Department of Defense Acquisition Workforce. The DA Wl A outlines specific requirements and qualifications of military personnel who are filling acquisition billets. This thesis will focus on the functions performed by 3044 Marines classified by Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) 3044, Contract and Acquisition Specialists. The work performed by 3044 Marines will be compared with the job descriptions of the GS-1 105 (Purchasing Series) and GS-1 102 (Contracting Series) positions. An evaluation will determine if there should be any changes to the 3044 classification, and what other training and entrance requirements could/should be implemented in compliance with the DAW1A initiative; thus ensuring an increase in competency, proficiency and professionalism of the 3044 MOS Marines., http://archive.org/details/impactofdefensea00schl, Major, United States Marine Corps, Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.

This study was undertaken to investigate the need to increase competition at the subcontract level in Government acquisition. Current Government acquisition policies include the preference for competitive subcontracting*, It was recognized that approximately 50% of all Government acauisition dollars go to subcontractors and that effective competition at that level is necessary to ensure that the Government is receiving quality items at the best prices. In investigating the nature of competitive subcontracting, interviews were conducted with Government, prime contractor, and subcontractor personnel. Areas covered in these interviews included the amount of competitive subcontracting, competitive practices and policies of each participant, and problems encountered in attempting to achieve competition. The results of this study include: the current extent of competitive subcontracting is unknown; there are many pressures working against competition; although the Government has procedures and policies regarding competition they do not always work; and, the need to increase competition cannot be determined without further research. It is recommended that a reporting system be developed to monitor the amount of competitive subcontracting and that a mandatory subcontracting clause be developed, if more competition is desirable., http://archive.org/details/needtoincreaseco00capi, Lieutenant, Supply Corps, United States Navy, Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.

This thesis discusses the U.S. Navy's current situation with regard to secondary items in long supply. This study concentrated solely on the area of acquisition of secondary items for wholesale inventory requirements. A brief history follows of how the U.S. Navy makes its requirements determinations and how the Navy has ended up in a long supply position on many items. The proposed Naval Supply Systems Command's termination model is examined in detail. Recommendations are given for potential improvements in this model which should result in more accurate determinations of the actual costs involved in a termination decision. An alternative decision model is proposed which, if implemented in the Navy, will assist both item managers and buyers in making the best business decisions on whether to terminate a contract for items in long supply or allow it to continue to completion. Keywords: Inventory models, Spare parts. (KR), This thesis discusses the U.S. Navy's current situation with regard to secondary items in long supply. This study concentrated solely on the area of acquisition of secondary items for wholesale inventory requirements. A brief history follows of how the U.S. Navy makes its requirements determinations and how the Navy has ended up in a long supply position on many items. The proposed Naval Supply Systems Command' s termination model is examined in detail . Recommendations are given for potential improvements in this model which should result in more accurate determinations of the actual costs involved in a termination decision. An alternative decision model is proposed which, if implemented in the Navy, will assist both item managers and buyers in making the best business decisions on whether to terminate a contract for items in long supply or allow it to continue to completion., http://archive.org/details/terminationofusn1094523423, Lieutenant Commander, Supply Corps, United States Navy, Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.

This research is intended as an implementation guide for managers to apply knowledge management as a strategic initiative within the contracting element of a major system command. The study incorporates the fourpillar model of knowledge management developed by Dr. Michael Stankosky. The four pillars within the model are: leadership, organization, technology and learning. Knowledge management was one of five strategic initiatives in the overall strategic plan, which was developed using Kaplan and Norton's Balanced Scorecard methodology. The thesis discusses the elements of knowledge management as well as how contracting organizations can be improved by incorporating knowledge management as a strategic initiative., http://archive.org/details/implementingknow109456212, Civilian, United States Army, Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.

The purchase of millions of dollars in Government property by various programs within the Department of the Navy in the development of many ACAT-1 Major Systems acquisition programs need to be reviewed to determine if the proper regulatory guidance exists. The purpose of this research was to investigate what, if any policies, provide Program Managers of Major System Acquisition with the proper guidance in the management control and of Government acquired property. The thesis examines an existing ACAT-1 program within the Department of the Navy, provides a full accounting and value of the property acquired to date. The research will determine to what extent the existing property management regulations were used, the current status of the property acquired and what actions have been taken to ensure that all the property acquired to date is fully accounted for. Recommendations will focus on areas associated with the establishment of Department of Navy regulatory policy at the property management level as well as the development of policy guidance for the proper purchase, distribution and control of property at the program level., http://archive.org/details/studyonpplicabil109451364, Department of the Navy author (civilian)

http://archive.org/details/annalysisofreaso1094522896

The Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) is the Marine Corps' forward deployed force in readiness and as such advertises that it is self-sustaining for 15 days. The MEU Commander has latitude as to what personnel and assets he wants to deploy with. Because of this, each of the MEUs is different. This is especially the case involving internal contracting support. This research explores the differences in contracting support commonly provided to the MEUs and the external support available to the MEUs in their Areas of Responsibility (AOR). Based on this research, the author provides conclusions and recommendations that will optimize the internal support to the MEUs while deployed., http://archive.org/details/developingbestme109455376

The purpose of this thesis is to idenfity the principal techniques used by firms in pricing products for sale to the Government and to examine and analyze the conditions contributing to a firm's pricing strategy. A review of writings in marketing, acquisition, and Micro Economics provided the background information necessary to examine how the theories of pricing and profit work together with recent Federal acquisition reforms to influence a firm's pricing strategy. Interviews were conducted with Government procurement professionals as well as representatives of industry and academia concerning the methodology used in formulating pricing decisions. It was found that pricing strategies are classified into two categories - cost-based and market-based. These categories include eleven * specific pricing strategies. The researcher concluded that recent changes brought about by Federal acquisition reform have accomplished their goal of more closing aligning Federal procurement practices with those of the commercial sector. The changes, however, have presented new challenges to Contracting Officers in determining that the Government pays a fair and reasonable price. Recommendations to improve the Contracting Officers' transition to more commercially based procurement practices include continued training of the Federal procurement workforce and the improved documentation of savings realized by acquisition reform measures, http://archive.org/details/analysisofpricin109457941, Lieutenant Commander, United States Navy, Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.

The Polish public procurement and the Polish Ministry of Defense (MOD) acquisitions programs have been subject to frequent violations and abuses since the public procurement system was introduced in Poland, in 1995. The complex Polish economic situation and the MOD's budget constraints call for tools that allow public money to be managed properly. This thesis examines the laws and regulations binding the public procurement in Poland along with current ethical concerns that the MOD has encountered. This thesis further recommends elements of a Ethics Program, which the Polish MOD should adopt and implement within its procurement organizations., http://archive.org/details/businessethics109455918, Captain, Polish Army, Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.

As a result of the legislation enacted over the past 20 years, American Government and industry are currently spending about $115 billion a year to meet environmental goals. This amount is expected to increase to $160 billion a year by the end of the year 2000. State and local Governments, which will have to bear a particularly large share of this increase, face over $80 billion in investment costs for wastewater alone, and the Federal Government will have to spend about $200 billion simply to clean up contaminated Department of Defense and Department of Energy installations. Altogether, the nation has invested about $1 trillion in environmental protection over the last 20 years. This analysis was designed to find out whom the DoD does business within the Environmental Remediation Industry. Key findings of this study are (1) Environmental Remediation companies are not dependent on the DoD business for survival, (2) Small Businesses dominate the Environmental Remediation Industry, (3) A majority of the Environmental Remediation companies provide services versus goods, (4) Environmental Remediation companies are located in states with strict environmental laws, http://archive.org/details/acomprehensivena109457651, Major, United States Army, Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.

Department of Defense project managers are increasing the scope of their operations to include consideration of foreign defense articles in acquisition strategies. This action has been motivated primarily by NATO Rationalization, Standardization and Interoperability (RSI) requirements. This thesis addresses the problems, real and perceived, in implementing "two-way street" transactions with allied nations. Members of U.S. Navy project offices were interviewed to determine the impact of NATO RSI policy on their operations. The questions asked revealed problems encountered and highlighted the pro/con biases of foreign acquisition. Private industry has been active in foreign purchasing for many years. A survey was utilized to identify private industry's experiences with foreign business practices, company biases and economic considerations. The thesis concludes with a comparison of private and DOD experiences and offers some recommendations to project managers involved with expansion into the foreign marketplace., http://archive.org/details/acquisitionoffor1094518585, Lieutenant Commander, Supply Corps, United States Navy, Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.

The Wenger Taxonomic Model provides a means to classify goods procured by the Federal Government so as to provide procurement professionals with strategic buying insight. Several aspects of the model have been explored by various researchers. These researchers have found that the model is both valid and useful. This study focuses on application of the Wenger Taxonomic Model to Commercial Off-the-Shelf computer hardware equipment procured by a specific buying activity. It proposes a slightly different version of the Wenger Taxonomic Model. It also proposes five areas where the model would help procurement professionals make smarter Information Technology investments. These areas are: cost-benefit analysis source selection evaluation, warranty purchases, contingency contracting, and evaluating the organizational impact of Information Technology acquisitions, http://archive.org/details/applicationofwen109457972, Major, United States Marine Corps, Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.

As U.S. Defense budgets and military research and development spending experienced significant decline between 1988 and 1998, the Defense Technology and Industrial Base essentially merged with the national industrial base. DOD reform occurred more slowly than changes in the private sector fueled by advances in technology. U.S. national security relies upon the ability of the military to maintain technological superiority. To attract advanced technology companies that normally do not participate in defense business to the defense market, Congress provided a new contracting authority, Section 845 Other Transaction Authority (OTA). This study examines the effectiveness of its byproduct, Section 845 Other Transactions (OTs). Opinions and performance data regarding the effectiveness of Section 845 OTs were solicited from non-traditional companies that participated in OTs from 1994 to 2000. Significant disagreement was found within the Federal Government concerning the definition of a non-traditional company. It was also found that DOD does not quantify the amount of technology it accessed with OTs. Many of the non-traditional companies with which DOD participated in OT-based relationships came from markets where significant defense business already exists. In sum, DOD achieved uncertain and varied success in using OTs to achieve their stated., http://archive.org/details/analyzingdepartm109451133, US Navy (USN) author

The primary intent of this research effort is to provide an identification and analysis of impediments to the acquisition of spare parts. The focus of the research was in the area of Army rotary wing aviation spare parts. The researcher delved into both pre-nonavailability and post nonavailability issues and sought to establish responsibility for their resolution. It looked at such factors as those general factors shaping the procurement environment, and information gathered through archival research, interviews, questionnaires and selected component case analysis. It was apparent from the research that a myriad of causes of spares nonavailability exist. Some of these are controllable and some are outside the realm of reasonable control by those in the acquisition community. It also discussed the aggressive, iterative use of risk management to apply limited resources to those areas with demand the most attention due to their relative program impact should difficulties in sustainability be encountered., http://archive.org/details/sparepartsnonava1094524042, Captain, United States Army, Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.

The Pilot Mentor-Protege Program was implemented October 1, 1991. It is a voluntary program that provides incentives for major defense contractors to provide developmental assistance to Small Disadvantaged Businesses (SDBs). The developmental assistance provided should enhance the capabilites of SDBs to perform as subcontractors and suppliers under Government and commercial contracts and increase Small Disadvantage Business participation in Department of Defense subcontracting. This study was undertaken to assess the current perceptions of industry regarding the program and to determine if the program has a viable future in Government procurement. The results of the study indicate an overall positive impression of the program exists in industry, especially among current participants. There are active mentor-protege relationships in which the assistance being provided is improving the capabilities of the protege. There are, however, some undesirable aspects and barriers that limit participation and effectiveness., http://archive.org/details/thepilotmentorpr1094524214, Lieutenant, United States Navy, Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.

Two-step sealed bidding is a viable procurement method for expanding the role of best value and nondevelopmental item (NDI) acquisitions. The objective of this research was to determine the feasibility of using two-step for obtaining best value in NDI acquisitions. The research was conducted by a review of regulations, policy guidance, and previously published materials. An important aspect of the research was the interview process conducted with procurement officials in the Defense Department and industry. The research provides a comprehensive look at NDI acquisitions, two-step sealed bidding, and best-value contracting. This study analyzed the following major issues: defining best value, increasing the effectiveness of NDI acquisitions, and finding best value in a two-step method. The research developed a two-step model for getting best value in NDI acquisitions. Major conclusions are: the concept of best value can be applied to a two-step method, much ambiguity exists in regards to the true meaning of "nondevelopmental," and regulatory impediments keep two-step from implementing a conventional best-value approach. Major recommendations are: a two-step model should be used for obtaining best value in NDI acquisitions, and two potential modifications should be made to strengthen this model by allowing supplier prequalification and fixed-price-award-fee contract type., http://archive.org/details/findingbestvalue1094523902, Captain, United States Army, Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.

The Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition, Technology and Logistics commissioned a group to study price-based acquisition in 1998. The Price-based Acquisition (PBA) Study Group reported out in November 1999. One report recommendation was to create and use a new contract type. The report states, "We have concluded that there is a place for a new contracting approach and contract type, Fixed-price, Variable Outcome. This approach is particularly applicable to and will allow many high-risk Science and Technology (S and T), risk reduction, and service contracts to be firm-fixedprice." The focus of this thesis is to analyze the concept behind FPVO, compare the FPVO to other existing contracting types, explore the most beneficial applications of the FPVO and finally to make recommendations based upon the data and analysis. The major conclusion is that the FPVO is an inappropriate contract type to use for any acquisition. The FPVO increases risk primarily as a result of placing control of the outcome in the hands of the contractor. The major recommendations are to either abandon the FPVO concept or develop a better vehicle to apportion risk. Two alternatives are suggested., http://archive.org/details/fixedpricevariab109455971, Lieutenant Commander, United States Navy, Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.

http://archive.org/details/streamlininginvi1094522505, NA, NA

This study examines the changing role of the contracting professional in the Department of Defense. Specifically, it examines the work effort of the contemporary contracting professional, the primary factors driving the need for changes in the conduct of contracting, the skills that are necessary in order to perform effectively, and finally, selected innovative contracting methodologies that can be employed by the contracting professional. Review and analysis of past and current contracting activities, Government documents, websites and acquisition literature, and interviews with contracting professionals provided the basis for this study. The research concludes that the acquisition environment of today and that of the future will demand an increasingly sophisticated and flexible set of acquisition skills, widely and thoroughly dispersed among, understood and effectively applied by contracting professionals. In addition to this flexible set of skills, several innovative contracting methods exist in the acquisition arena today, such as electronic commerce and performance-based acquisition, that are available to the contracting professional to utilize in supporting the customer in the best possible manner. Education and training of the contracting professional are necessary to equip him with the needed skills and the ability and confidence to use new and innovative contracting methodologies., US Army (USA) author (civilian)

http://archive.org/details/adictionaryofcqu1094523020

Important research efforts have advocated the concept of contracting as a science. One of the key criteria required for a discipline to be recognized as a science is a description and classification of the subject matter. In order to meet this criterion, a model was developed which classifies goods procured by the Federal Government. Further research validated the classification scheme and suggested some improvements. An important criterion of any classification scheme is its usefulness. This thesis examines potential applications and benefits of the previously developed taxonomical structure for classifying goods procured by the Federal Government. Potentially useful applications of the taxonomy of goods include market research, procurement regulation, and training and education., http://archive.org/details/ataxonomyofgoods1094524063, Lieutenant, Supply Corps, United States Navy, Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.