Cycle-times and Cycles of Acquisition Reform

Abstract

This paper assesses the relationship between cycles of acquisition reform and cycle-times (i.e., the time to field new capabilities). First, we characterize the history of defense reform in terms of cycles that centralize or decentralize oversight. Next, using schedule data from over 200 Major Defense Acquisition Programs (MDAPs), we evaluate past reforms’ impact on MDAP cycle-time. We observe that, historically, centralized oversight correlates with lower rates of cycle-time growth but that cycle-times have remained relatively unchanged throughout defense reform cycles. Finally, we conclude that, similar to past reform cycles which decentralized oversight, today’s reforms may not increase the speed with which the Defense Department acquires MDAPs.