An Analysis of the Efficiency of Sourcing Knowledge-Based Services in the United States Air Force

Abstract

This research analyzed the practices associated with maintaining a safety stock of secondary reparables (SECREP) to meet United States Marine Corps (USMC) demand. This research found evidence of accelerated spending on SECREPs in the fourth quarter, but no evidence that increased spending improved readiness. Currently, USMC bases its annual SECREP requirement on execution data (expenditures) from previous years, rather than actual demand. We conclude that the RIPs should use actual demand data to estimate future demand, and review back-order lead time and priority codes relative to stock allowance to ensure SECREP items purchased are actually needed to improve readiness.