Harnessing Rapid Innovation Culture to Invigorate the Adaptive Acquisition Framework

Abstract

The defense acquisition system is undergoing significant change with the rollout of the Adaptive Acquisition Framework, better integration with the commercial sector, greater use of prototyping, and expansion of modern software development to provide incremental capability. The timing of this is critical as our near-peer competitors are challenging us on multiple fronts. These encouraging reforms must be built upon. Rapid innovation acquisition organizations can provide lessons in continuing this positive momentum. Acquisition leaders must encourage their people to use its flexibilities and resist the urge to impose restrictions. They must energize the workforce. They must empower them to exploit all available technology advances. They must enable the necessary insight and help their teams build collaboration networks. They must hire the right people entering the workforce and maintain accountability of those in the system. They must encourage the use of all available acquisition tools. Acquisition leaders must evolve and adapt these methods for their organizations to ensure they are ready to meet future challenges.