Through the Looking Glass: Why EVM Is An Essential Risk Mitigation Measure for Decision Makers and Program Managers

Abstract

The author has written this paper to defend and strengthen the use of risk mitigation measures inherent in the implementation, maintenance, and surveillance of a government contractor’s business system (CBS) , specifically the contractual addition of the Earned Value Management System (EVMS; DFARS 252.234-7002) clause. The contractor and the United States Government’s ability to engage the right people, processes, and tools at the right time is essential to effective program management policy and control (Hite, 2010. p. 23). This course of action will provide the stakeholders with the capabilities required to plan and execute the program/project to support proper stewardship of taxpayer dollars. The projects performance outcomes provide lessons learned “through the looking glass” that will ensure objective and rationale for the measurements of reliability, availability, and maintainability of a compliant EVM business system. These risk mitigation measures objective is to reduce project cancellations, strengthen national security and build the domestic industrial base sourcing of goods and services.