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 the 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 makes an assessment on how DoD has implemented 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, but those at the tactical level are not taking advantage of the initiatives because many view 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 successful implementation.