Performance Based Support Model

For several years, since Defense policies have promoted Performance Based Acquisition (PBA) instead of traditional Military Specification definition of requirements, logistic support teams have struggled with the realities of applying revolutionaryconcepts to fielded weapon systems. Historically when a part or assembly failed often, the government usually bought more identically configured items from the same vendor. This type of business model perpetuates poor reliability, hampers competition,degrades mission readiness, and exacerbates both cost and obsolescence. However, the challenges of redefining the functional interfaces required for a PBA, defining functional, environmental, integration and acceptance testing, while maintainingconfiguration and operational safety, suitability and effectiveness (OSS&E), are daunting.This research exploits technology advances in models and tools to modernize logistic processes that provide decision support for Integrated Product Teams (IPT) to overcome the challenges that have impeded broader application of PBA opportunities. Themodel to be demonstrated in the prototype phase will efficiently define functional interfaces for each higher assembly. The resulting automated performance based support model will guide Supply Chain Manager IPTs through the evolving USAF and DoDacquisition and support process. Six sigma techniques will be employed to ensure that OSS&E requirements are efficiently met throughout the entire supply chain.