Integrating Reforms Across the Seams of the DoD Requirements, PPBE, and Acquisition Systems

Abstract

As input to the Planning, Programming, Budgeting, and Execution (PPBE) Reform Commission, the Acquisition Innovation Research Center (AIRC) formed an Executive Panel to address the research question of how the PPBE system can be improved by considering reforms that cut across its seams with the DoD Requirements and Acquisition systems. This paper will discuss the panel’s approach, findings, and recommendations based on over 50 discussions with industry and DoD leaders, qualitative data analysis, and review of several case examples (e.g., surging of munitions production, generative AI, the B-21 program, and the Space Development Agency). Since resolving integration issues typically falls to acquisition managers, this research should be of broad interest to the acquisition community.