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Development Of The Air Module For The Work Information Management System. Environmental Subsystem (Wims-Es), Robert A. Cantwell, Jonathan S. Davis Sep 1992

Development Of The Air Module For The Work Information Management System. Environmental Subsystem (Wims-Es), Robert A. Cantwell, Jonathan S. Davis

Theses and Dissertations

The primary objective of this research was to develop the air module for the Work Information Management System Environmental Subsystem (WIMSES). The air module will provide Air Force environmental managers with a management information system (MIS) to control the growing amount of air pollution data required to stay in compliance with the newly amended Clean Air Act. To develop the air module, the Air Force's air pollution management requirements were researched first. These requirements were then compared to the capabilities of existing air pollution MISs used in the Department of Defense, the Environmental Protection Agency, and in commercial industry. The …

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Examination Of Psychological Type And Preferred Negotiation Tactics And Strategies Of Contract Negotiators, John P. Hebert, Alan J. Meade Sep 1992

Examination Of Psychological Type And Preferred Negotiation Tactics And Strategies Of Contract Negotiators, John P. Hebert, Alan J. Meade

Theses and Dissertations

This research identified the psychological types of government and industry contract negotiators and determined whether their preference for using negotiation tactics and strategies were correlated with their respective psychological types. A survey consisting of the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) and a questionnaire concerning use of negotiation tactics and strategies was mailed to 2,000 contracting professionals of the National Contract Management Association (NCMA). During May and June 1992, 627 usable surveys were received. The MBTI results were paired with the responses to the negotiation tactics and strategies questionnaire. These results were analyzed on a microcomputer using the DBase IV, Excel, and …

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The Development Of A Tri-Service Notification System For Type 1 Medical Materiel Complaints, Edmund K. Haraguchi, Christopher J. Harrington Sep 1992

The Development Of A Tri-Service Notification System For Type 1 Medical Materiel Complaints, Edmund K. Haraguchi, Christopher J. Harrington

Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this study was to investigate the notification process for defective medical materiel within the Department of Defense. The study first evaluated the efficiency of the current notification process for defective medical materiel within the Army, Navy, and Air Force. Second, a streamlined notification process and tri-service Type 1 message for defective medical materiel was developed. Finally, the effectiveness of this tri-service message was evaluated in comparison to the current notification messages used by the three services. Investigations using observational studies revealed duplication of both function and resources among the medical logistics offices of the three services. Through …

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An Investigation Of The Influence Of Advanced Aircraft Diagnostics On The Technological Sophistication Of Maintenance Personnel, Chris R. Collins, Clete W. Knaub Sep 1992

An Investigation Of The Influence Of Advanced Aircraft Diagnostics On The Technological Sophistication Of Maintenance Personnel, Chris R. Collins, Clete W. Knaub

Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this research was to determine what effect automated diagnostic systems will have on the maintenance worker's technological capabilities. Four investigative questions guided the project: 1. What effect has automation of skilled jobs had on workers in the civilian community?; 2. What technological and psychological traits have led to success in past military conflicts?; 3. What types of technological and psychological traits will technicians have who are heavily dependent on diagnostic systems? (For example, to what degree will maintenance technicians be able to improvise when deployed to a combat area?); and, 4. What lessons can Air Force maintenance …

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Demonstrating The Effects Of Shop Flow Process Variability On The Air Force Depot Level Reparable Item Pipeline, Marvin A. Arostegui Jr., Jon A. Larvick Sep 1992

Demonstrating The Effects Of Shop Flow Process Variability On The Air Force Depot Level Reparable Item Pipeline, Marvin A. Arostegui Jr., Jon A. Larvick

Theses and Dissertations

This study investigated the effects of reducing the mean processing time and variability in the Shop Flow Segment of the Depot Level Reparable Item pipeline. The measure of interest was the average number of units in the pipeline of a particular type of item (referred to as the average pipeline contents). A literature review revealed that process variability in the pipeline has an impact on its effective operation and cost. A simulation model was developed to determine if reducing mean processing time and/or variability in the Shop Flow Segment would result in a reduction in the average pipeline contents. The …

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A Methodology For Model Comparison Using The Theater Simulation Of Airbase Resources And All Mobile Tactical Air Force Models, Heston R. Hicks, Lawrence L. Long Sep 1992

A Methodology For Model Comparison Using The Theater Simulation Of Airbase Resources And All Mobile Tactical Air Force Models, Heston R. Hicks, Lawrence L. Long

Theses and Dissertations

This research compares the Theater Simulation of Airbase Resources (TSAR) model to the sortie generation (SORGEN) module of the AH Mobile Tactical Air Force (AMTAF) model, qualitatively and quantitatively, while concurrently developing and proving a model co methodology. The qualitative analysis compares the models' background and documentation, features and databases, and useability. The quantitative analysis statistically compares the models' estimates of sorties generated. For the quantitative study, eight variables are chosen and assigned high and low values for use in a 2' 1/4 fractional factorial experimental design. Equivalent input databases are developed from a TSAR F-15C database and pilot trials …

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Analysis Of U. S. Military Mobilizations, Demobilizations, And Peacetime Force Maintenance From 1890 To 1991, Gottfried Kloimwieder, Noel P. Owen Sep 1992

Analysis Of U. S. Military Mobilizations, Demobilizations, And Peacetime Force Maintenance From 1890 To 1991, Gottfried Kloimwieder, Noel P. Owen

Theses and Dissertations

Military manpower management principles and policies are in constant flux as the military forces mobilize and demobilize during periods of war and peace. This study identifies trends in U.S. military manpower policies and procedures from 1890 to 1991. Major military conflicts reviewed are the Spanish- American War, World wars I and II, the Korean Conflict, the Vietnam War, and the Persian Gulf War. In all wars until Vietnam, post war active duty forces were larger than prewar forces. However, these active duty forces tended to be relatively small until the Cold War period. This tendency is driven by a combination …

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A Model-Based Methodology For Evaluating The Unit-Level Air Combat Mission Planning (Acmp) Process, Thomas L. Gaylord, George L. Sowell Sep 1992

A Model-Based Methodology For Evaluating The Unit-Level Air Combat Mission Planning (Acmp) Process, Thomas L. Gaylord, George L. Sowell

Theses and Dissertations

This study modeled the USAF unit-level Air Combat Mission Planning (ACMP) process and developed a methodology for evaluating the effectiveness of changes to the process. The study also reports relevant mission planning lessons learned from Desert Storm and demonstrates application of the developed evaluation methodology. An exploratory multidisciplinary literature review builds a research foundation for the evaluation methodology. Foundation areas reviewed include unit-level operations, command and control, planning, decision theory, decision aiding, and model-based problem solving. The conceptual model of the planning process defines sixteen functions starting from receipt of tasking and concluding with execution departure. For each of the …

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An Analysis Of The Air Force Enlisted Performance Feedback System, Dee J. Jackson, Mark A. Ward Sep 1992

An Analysis Of The Air Force Enlisted Performance Feedback System, Dee J. Jackson, Mark A. Ward

Theses and Dissertations

This research evaluated the effectiveness of the enlisted evaluation performance feedback system. The Air Force created the feedback system because many airmen, especially those in lower ranks, did not know or did not understand their duties. Therefore, for the purpose of this study, effectiveness was defined as the degree to which the Air Force model mimicked the ideal feedback model as formulated by the researcher's analysis of the literature. The researchers found evidence that the new Air Force feedback system is an improvement over the old design. Under the old system, the only regulated means of providing feedback was a …

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Cost/Schedule Control Systems Criteria: A Reference Guide To C/Scsc Information, Erik G. Cummings, Kirk A. Schneider Sep 1992

Cost/Schedule Control Systems Criteria: A Reference Guide To C/Scsc Information, Erik G. Cummings, Kirk A. Schneider

Theses and Dissertations

This thesis effort provides a valuable tool for contract performance measurement (CPM) analysts to use both while attending formalized Cost/Schedule Control Systems Criteria (C/SCSC) training, and while on the job. Research indicated a large amount of written material existed on contract performance measurement and the more specific topic of C/SCSC, yet this information was hidden in a wide array of unindexed professional journals, master's thesis, and texts. Further, while many professions have a reference guide of annotated bibliographies, CPM had none. Through an extensive literature review using several search and retrieval methods, the authors were able to amass a bibliography …

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A Study Of The Relationship Between Personality Characteristics And Ethical Sensitivity In Business, Ronald A. Ortiz, David Petrillo Sep 1992

A Study Of The Relationship Between Personality Characteristics And Ethical Sensitivity In Business, Ronald A. Ortiz, David Petrillo

Theses and Dissertations

This research establishes a significant relationship between ethical sensitivity (the perception that a situation requires ethical consideration), and personality type, as characterized by the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI). A simple random sampling from the membership of the National Contract Management Association yielded 466 responses. The sample was analyzed by segmentation into government (181) and industry (285) respondents. The average ethical sensitivity response of 5.28 out of seven is considered high. Differences in perceptions of ethical sensitivity were significant among government and industry, and among ten scenarios often faced by contracting professionals. In the majority of scenarios, the government segment reported …

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Nasa And Logistics-A Match For The 21st Century, Stephan P. Brady, Jay R. Jennings Sep 1992

Nasa And Logistics-A Match For The 21st Century, Stephan P. Brady, Jay R. Jennings

Theses and Dissertations

This research evaluated current NASA organizational and logistical strategy processes to compare them with current academic theory and make recommendations to improve the processes. Various strategy theories were explored, resulting in a model synthesizing the various elements. The organizational, cultural, and political environment surrounding NASA was studied. Personal interviews were conducted and various NASA strategic plans and other documents were analyzed. From these activities emerged six recommendations: (1) Create a formal strategy process for NASA logistics (and NASA), (2) Tie logistics strategies directly to organizational strategies/goals, (3) Get logisticians from different functions/programs/centers to crossflow information, (4) Identify redundancies in logistics …

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A Benchmark Of Vehicle Maintenance Training Between The U.S. Air Force And A Civilian Industry Leader, James J. Meersman, Inez A. Sookma Sep 1992

A Benchmark Of Vehicle Maintenance Training Between The U.S. Air Force And A Civilian Industry Leader, James J. Meersman, Inez A. Sookma

Theses and Dissertations

This thesis compared vehicle maintenance training between the U.S. Air Force (USAF) and a leading civilian training organization, Cuyahoga Valley Joint Vocational School (CVJVS), using benchmarking. First, the study identified the USAF and civilian automotive training industries conduct training. Next, the researchers identified common areas for comparison between training programs. Then, the industry leader's best practice was identified. The best practice at CVJVS as the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF) certification process. In applying this practice at Chanute, the researchers identified three deficient areas, or negative gaps. The first gap was in the number of hours of instruction. The …

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Change In Self-Efficacy As A Measure Of Training Effectiveness At Squadron Officer School, Edward J. Berghorn, Michael Lewis Sep 1992

Change In Self-Efficacy As A Measure Of Training Effectiveness At Squadron Officer School, Edward J. Berghorn, Michael Lewis

Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this research was to determine the effect of the US air Force Squadron Officer School (SOS) training curriculum by measuring students' self-efficacy before and after training. The authors verified through the literature that an individual's personal assessment of his self-efficacy was associated with task understanding and performance. Then self-efficacy questions were generated (for each of the four SOS curriculum areas) for an individual to assess his ability to perform a behavior related to a particular SOS learning objective. Demographic questions were also developed and combined with the self- efficacy questions to form pretest (before SOS training) and …

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An Analysis Of Contracting Terms: Expanding The Body Of Knowledge Within The Contract Management Profession, Marilyn J. Bayless, John H. Padgett Sep 1992

An Analysis Of Contracting Terms: Expanding The Body Of Knowledge Within The Contract Management Profession, Marilyn J. Bayless, John H. Padgett

Theses and Dissertations

This thesis establishes definitions for 50 contracting terms through the use of a detailed methodology comparable to that utilized on past theses of similar intent. Through a thorough review of current literature, existing definitions were examined. Based upon the results of this analysis, proposed definitions were assimilated. Through the use of a mailed questionnaire/survey, the proposed definitions were presented to randomly selected Certified Professional Contract Managers (CPCMs) for feedback. Based upon this feedback, the proposed definitions were then revised to reflect actual current usage of the terminology as indicated by the survey results. These revised definitions are the 'final' definitions …

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Development Of A Standard Set Of Software Indicators For Aeronautical Systems Center, Bradley J. Ayres, William M. Rock Sep 1992

Development Of A Standard Set Of Software Indicators For Aeronautical Systems Center, Bradley J. Ayres, William M. Rock

Theses and Dissertations

This research effort was directed to the development of a standard set of software indicators to be used by ASC. The research was sponsored by ASC/ENASC, who indicated their desire for such a standard set of indicators to allow a database to be developed of program data that would be useful in making predictions about future software efforts. The research began with an attempt to characterize the software indicator environment at ASC, and also to perform a literature search for software indicators currently available. The desired result was an initial core set of indicators useful to software managers and engineers …

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Development Of A Heuristic Knowledge Base For The Selection Of Applicable Or Relevant And Appropriate Environmental Requirements, Scott J. Borg, Gerald B. Puetz Sep 1992

Development Of A Heuristic Knowledge Base For The Selection Of Applicable Or Relevant And Appropriate Environmental Requirements, Scott J. Borg, Gerald B. Puetz

Theses and Dissertations

Applicable or Relevant and Appropriate Requirements (ARARs) are the basis used in establishing threshold limits for hazardous waste cleanups performed under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act (CERCIA). ARARs selections must be applied consistently at numerous cleanup locations concurrently. The purpose of this research was to analyze activities required for the development of a heuristic knowledge base used for selection of The problem domain for the research was limited CERCLA cleanups of contaminated groundwater, through the use of a pump and treat strategy, using air stripping as the as the cleanup technology. The research examined literature concerning the …

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An Analysis Of The Potential Use Of Red Horse Capabilities And Training Activities To Perform Or Accelerate Air Force Environmental Cleanups, E. Alexander Stokes Iii, Randy A. Carpenter Sep 1992

An Analysis Of The Potential Use Of Red Horse Capabilities And Training Activities To Perform Or Accelerate Air Force Environmental Cleanups, E. Alexander Stokes Iii, Randy A. Carpenter

Theses and Dissertations

There are more than 4,000 Air Force (AF) sites requiring restoration due to hazardous waste contamination. The AF goal is to completely restore all sites by 2000. One method of achieving this ambitious goal is to use in-house capabilities. This study examined the potential use of RED HORSE capabilities and training activities to assist with cleanup of contaminated sites. RED HORSE capabilities and training requirements were compared to the primary cleanup needs of the AF. One finding of this study suggests cleanup of sites contaminated by volatile organic chemicals (VOCs) is the primary need of the AF. The findings also …

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An Analysis Of Depot Maintenance Interservicing Source Of Repair Selection And Acquisition Program Incompatibilities, Robert N. Mcgarry, Gregory K. Owens Sep 1992

An Analysis Of Depot Maintenance Interservicing Source Of Repair Selection And Acquisition Program Incompatibilities, Robert N. Mcgarry, Gregory K. Owens

Theses and Dissertations

This study revealed that although the Depot Maintenance Interservicing (DMI) study process has the potential for considerable savings in the Depot Source of Repair (DSOR) decision it has failed to do so. The DMI study process and the acquisition programs are well established. However, there are various incompatibilities between the two which interfere with the interaction between them and prevent a timely decision. We performed an examination of the DMI study process and its impact on six acquisition programs which have either undergone or are presently undergoing the study process. The results of personal interviews with program office and Joint …

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An Investigation Of Integrated Weapon System Management Implementation Issues, Scott A. Dalrymple, Lester F. Pietraszuk Sep 1992

An Investigation Of Integrated Weapon System Management Implementation Issues, Scott A. Dalrymple, Lester F. Pietraszuk

Theses and Dissertations

This thesis investigated Integrated Weapon System Management implementation issues. Five functional areas were examined: Contracting, Engineering, Financial management, Program Management, and Test Management. Data was collected through interviews. The most significant lessons learned were to establish a direct chain of command and to use TQM principles. Program business practices were changed by increasing Product Center/ALC interaction and implementing a single joint CCB. Program personnel obtained useful guidance from other IWSM programs and from the information products distributed by HQ AFMC. Communication improvements included increased teleconference capability and establishment of a Local Area Network. Cultural differences between centers, insufficient initial guidance, …

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An Evaluation Of Schedule Metrics Used Within Aeronautical Systems Center, Robert J. Hayes, Lawrence M. Miller Sep 1992

An Evaluation Of Schedule Metrics Used Within Aeronautical Systems Center, Robert J. Hayes, Lawrence M. Miller

Theses and Dissertations

This study focused on a selected group of schedule metrics in use at Aeronautical Systems Center (ASC) acquisition program offices. Over 300 metrics were collected from the System Program Offices (SPOs). The metrics data were sorted into the categories of cost, schedule, and performance. In order to narrow the scope of the project, the team decided to focus on schedule metrics. Seven of the most common schedule metrics were selected for evaluation by a group of five experienced acquisition professionals. The group was asked to input the likely behaviors driven by the metrics being addressed by the study. Next, they …

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Award Fee In Software Acquisition, Mark T. Hunter Sep 1992

Award Fee In Software Acquisition, Mark T. Hunter

Theses and Dissertations

The focus of this research effort was to determine, in general terms, what contractual tools are available to influence contractor performance during the software development process and, specifically, whether or not award fee contracts are appropriate tools. First, a qualitative, in depth literature review was done. Next, personal interviews were conducted with Program Directors and Deputy Program Directors at Aeronautical Systems Center, Electronic Systems Center, and Space and Missiles Systems Center. Then, after the results were summarized, the data was analyzed and findings were made. Findings include: award fee was found to be the most flexible provision in the FAR …

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The Application Of Function Points To Predict Source Lines Of Code For Software Development, Garland S. Henderson Sep 1992

The Application Of Function Points To Predict Source Lines Of Code For Software Development, Garland S. Henderson

Theses and Dissertations

This research investigated the results of using function point analysis-based estimates to predict source lines of code (SLOC) for software development projects. The majority of software cost and effort estimating parametric tools are categorized as SLOC-based, meaning SLOC is the primary input. Early in a program, an accurate estimate of SLOC is difficult to project. Function points, another parametric software estimating tool, bases software cost and effort estimates on the functionality of a system. This functionality is described by documents available early in a program. Using a modeling methodology, the research focuses on function point's ability to accurately estimate SLOC …

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Defining Contract Terms, Michael J. Cushing, Mary R. Spalding Sep 1992

Defining Contract Terms, Michael J. Cushing, Mary R. Spalding

Theses and Dissertations

The goal of this research effort was to develop consensus definitions for fifty-one (51) contracting-terms. This was accomplished by developing a synthesized definition for each term based on a review of the available published literature, subjecting the synthesized definitions to expert scrutiny via a survey distributed to recognized contracting professionals, and amending the literature-based definitions as indicated by the survey responses. Using this approach, consensus was achieved on all but one term. The consensus definitions developed in this way are recommended for inclusion in a comprehensive dictionary of contracting terminology, to be comprised of the results of this and other …

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Graphic Representation In Managerial Decision Making: The Effect Of Scale Break On The Dependent Axis, Clark R. Carvalho, Michael D. Mcmillan Sep 1992

Graphic Representation In Managerial Decision Making: The Effect Of Scale Break On The Dependent Axis, Clark R. Carvalho, Michael D. Mcmillan

Theses and Dissertations

This thesis investigated whether a scale break on the dependent axis a affects a decision maker's interpretation of the data presented in the graph. A literature search revealed criteria for constructing high integrity graphs and formatting scale breaks. An experiment was conducted to determine the effect of a scale break on the dependent axis. Graphs following the criteria for high integrity graphs were presented to the control group, while graphs following the criteria for high integrity graphs, with the exception of the scale break, were presented to the experimental group. Using a parametric two-sample t test and a non-parametric Rank …

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The Effects Of Iconic Presentation On Individuals, Ellen T. Barber, Elizabeth C. Dunn Sep 1992

The Effects Of Iconic Presentation On Individuals, Ellen T. Barber, Elizabeth C. Dunn

Theses and Dissertations

This thesis investigated whether individuals interpreted iconic graphs differently than traditional graphs. A literature review revealed a lack of current research concerning iconic graphs. Using guidelines previously created for high-integrity graphics, a timed, pretest-posttest experiment was developed to compare the impressions rendered by both traditional and iconic graphs to determine whether men and women interpret the two types of graphs in the same way. It was also used to determine whether traditional bar graphs or iconic graphs were preferred by the subjects. Ninety-nine subjects, all employees of the Royal Australian Air Force/ United States Air Force, or defense contractors, were …

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An Analysis Of Joint Ventures Between The United States And The Commonwealth Of Independent States, Brian P. Davis, Daniel L. Demott Sep 1992

An Analysis Of Joint Ventures Between The United States And The Commonwealth Of Independent States, Brian P. Davis, Daniel L. Demott

Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this study was to develop insights for those who wish to engage in joint ventures with the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS). Over the last 70 years, joint ventures with the West have been scarce in the USSR. With the dissolution of the USSR, opportunities for commerce have greatly improved. Most Western countries are seeking to take advantage of the natural resources and untapped consumer market in the CIS. Consequently, companies wanting to engage in commercial endeavors will need current information on the different financial, cultural, organizational, and logistical issues that are peculiar to the CIS. This …

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A Feasibility Study On Consolidating Air Force Cost Reduction Programs, Joseph H. Donohoe, Mark A. Hobson Sep 1992

A Feasibility Study On Consolidating Air Force Cost Reduction Programs, Joseph H. Donohoe, Mark A. Hobson

Theses and Dissertations

This study investigated the possibility of consolidating available manufacturing cost savings programs into one concise effort with common ground rules and regulations. The current manufacturing cost savings program include the Industrial Modernization Incentive Program (IMIP), the Manufacturing Technology Program (MANTECH), and the Value Engineering Program (VE). A literature search revealed that there are problems associated with each of these cost savings programs. A case study was conducted on the B-2 System Program Office's effort to consolidate cost savings programs into one common effort. This case study revealed that there were positive benefits in reducing cost after consolidation. A survey of …

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An Analysis Of Contracting Actions By United States Based Department Of Defense Organizations To Support Operations Desert Shield And Desert Storm, Kathleen E. Killen, Gavin P. Wilson Sep 1992

An Analysis Of Contracting Actions By United States Based Department Of Defense Organizations To Support Operations Desert Shield And Desert Storm, Kathleen E. Killen, Gavin P. Wilson

Theses and Dissertations

This study assembled the experiences of the contracting professionals who supported Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm from their continental United States based Department of Defense offices. The results of the study show that these professionals actively supported the conflict just as much as the contingency contracting officers who were deployed to the Middle East. No major differences in contracting methods appeared among the different agencies studied. However, the study does suggest that certain regulations should be considered for changes or waivers that go into effect during military contingencies. Also, there are specific training requirements that contracting professionals should receive …

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Range Scheduling Automation For The Air Force Satellite Control Network: A Case Study In Computer System Development, Donald J. Aitken, Steven C. Bishop Sep 1992

Range Scheduling Automation For The Air Force Satellite Control Network: A Case Study In Computer System Development, Donald J. Aitken, Steven C. Bishop

Theses and Dissertations

This study explored the factors influencing divergent outcomes of two computer system development efforts which were undertaken to fulfill the same requirement for computer automation of a manual resource scheduling process. The first project employed the traditional waterfall approach to system development, but resulted in user rejection and cancellation after considerable resources and effort had been expended. The second project employed prototyping and both the process and the product were well received by the users and ultimately produced an operational system. Analysis yielded eight contributory factors to the failure of the first effort. Three of these were related to the …

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