Open Access. Powered by Scholars. Published by Universities.®

Business Commons

Open Access. Powered by Scholars. Published by Universities.®

Air Force Institute of Technology

Discipline
Keyword
Publication Year
Publication
Publication Type

Articles 991 - 1020 of 1164

Full-Text Articles in Business

A Cost Model For Usaf Acquisition Of Commercial Aircraft For Service In The Special Air Mission Fleet, C. Grant Mcvicker Iii, Michael T. Roche Sep 1993

A Cost Model For Usaf Acquisition Of Commercial Aircraft For Service In The Special Air Mission Fleet, C. Grant Mcvicker Iii, Michael T. Roche

Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this research was to develop a cost estimating model which would allow cost estimators the ability to quickly and accurately estimate the acquisition of Air Force Special Air Mission fleet aircraft. The literature review revealed studies, government contracts, and trade publications which served as source data. This information was supplemented by interviews with acquisition specialists and contractors and incorporated into a database. Several estimating techniques were created and used to estimate the various cost elements. The Commercial Aircraft Integrated Cost Estimating Tool (CAICET) model was then developed to incorporate the estimating techniques with the database. This was …


An Enhanced Process Model Of The Intransit Segment Of The Air Force Logistics Reparable Pipeline, Raul T. Mireles, Steven D. Pearson Sep 1993

An Enhanced Process Model Of The Intransit Segment Of The Air Force Logistics Reparable Pipeline, Raul T. Mireles, Steven D. Pearson

Theses and Dissertations

This thesis is an in-depth study of the intransit segment of the United States Air Force reparable pipeline. Previous research has not adequately discussed the role of the intransit segment in the overall pipeline. As a result, this thesis identifies the characteristics of this particular segment by discussing the following topics: various intransit components, reparable asset flow times, intransit's role under two-level maintenance, intransit constraints, and data sources used to manage asset movements within the pipeline. The study uses a thorough literature review, personal interviews, and an evaluation of asset flow time data to compare current standards to what actually …


The Logistics Of Waging War 1982-1993, Alan J. Will, William G. Wheeler Sep 1993

The Logistics Of Waging War 1982-1993, Alan J. Will, William G. Wheeler

Theses and Dissertations

This research effort provides material for use in updating the book The Logistics of Waging War. This particular book gives a logistics overview of part American Military conflicts but had not been update since 1982. Our objective was to research the logistics aspects of the major military operations since 1982. These operations included: Operation Urgent Fury in Grenada (1983), Operation Just Cause in Panama (1989), Operation Desert Shield in Saudi Arabia (1990), Operation Desert Storm in Iraq and Kuwait (1991), and Operation Desert Farewell in Saudi Arabia (1992). Also included in this study is a review of the Air Force …


Toward Alternative Metrics For Measuring Performance Within Operational Contracting Squadrons: An Application Of Benchmarking Techniques, Mark W. Fahrenkamp, Mark P. Garst Sep 1993

Toward Alternative Metrics For Measuring Performance Within Operational Contracting Squadrons: An Application Of Benchmarking Techniques, Mark W. Fahrenkamp, Mark P. Garst

Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this study is to present a performance evaluation system based upon benchmarking techniques as an alternative method of assessing performance within operational contracting squadrons. To fulfill this purpose, the research focused upon four main objectives: (1) determine all the performance factors that currently exist within a typical contracting squadron; (2) determine which of these factors are considered significant for measuring organizational performance, (3) determine whether a benchmark can be established for each performance factor considered to be significant; and (4) determine whether a viable performance evaluation system can be developed based upon benchmarking principles and techniques. To …


Development Of Standardized S Curves For The Evaluation Of Major Department Of Defense Purchases, Richard E. Knepp, Michael E. Stroble Sep 1993

Development Of Standardized S Curves For The Evaluation Of Major Department Of Defense Purchases, Richard E. Knepp, Michael E. Stroble

Theses and Dissertations

The increasing cost of Department of Defense acquisitions combined with the shrinking Defense budget puts a premium on continuing the funding of only those programs that are practical and affordable. This emphasizes a need for good methods of monitoring the progress of programs. Current methods of controlling and evaluating cost performance are limited. It is our belief that the generation of S-curves using current Cost and Schedule Control Systems Criteria (C/SCSC) data will provide a mathematical and/or graphical approach to assist in the control of program costs. This thesis attempted to plot the percentage of time for a contract's completion …


Empowerment: Dimensions And Strategies In The U.S Air Force, Karen M. Corrente, Adelaida Lopez Sep 1993

Empowerment: Dimensions And Strategies In The U.S Air Force, Karen M. Corrente, Adelaida Lopez

Theses and Dissertations

The goal of this research was to develop an instrument capable of measuring empowerment, and provide recommended general strategies on how to create an empowered organization. This goal was accomplished by developing a pilot questionnaire based on seven dimensions of empowerment discussed in Major Wayne G. Stone's unpublished article Empowerment: Keeping the Promise of the Total Quality Revolution. Each dimension of empowerment was subdivided into measurement parameters, with behavioral statements developed to describe these parameters. The pilot questionnaire was completed by 278 Air Force-related personnel with mainly acquisition-oriented backgrounds. Results indicated six factors of empowerment exist which were translated into …


An Analysis Of Estimate At Completion Models Utilizing The Defense Acquisition Executive Summary Database, Mark F. Terry, Mary M. Vanderburgh Sep 1993

An Analysis Of Estimate At Completion Models Utilizing The Defense Acquisition Executive Summary Database, Mark F. Terry, Mary M. Vanderburgh

Theses and Dissertations

This study explores the widely held assertion that DOD contract Cost at Completion is bounded below by the Cost Performance Index-based Estimate at Completion (EAC) and above by the Schedule Cost Index-based EAC. Descriptive statistics determined the floor and ceiling for 321 DOD contracts. The results confirmed that the Cost Performance Index-based EAC is a reasonable floor and the Schedule Cost Index-based EAC is a reasonable ceiling for EAC formulas. For the contracts considered overall, on average, the Cost at Completion was not bounded by the floor and ceiling. The range of EAC formulas evaluated tended to slightly underestimate, the …


The Development And Demonstration Of The Metric Assessment Tool, Cynthia A. Campbell, Gregory M. Gutterman Sep 1993

The Development And Demonstration Of The Metric Assessment Tool, Cynthia A. Campbell, Gregory M. Gutterman

Theses and Dissertations

This study reflects the development and demonstration of the Metric Assessment Tool. The purpose of the tool was to provide individuals the means to assess metrics and make improvements to the process measurement. The tool was developed using two critical attributes. customer satisfaction and process improvement. Once the tool was developed, a metric assessment process was designed to demonstrate the tool. Two metrics were selected from the Aeronautical Systems Center (ASC) and individuals with a working knowledge of the metric and process were selected for the demonstrations. Using a Group Support System at Armstrong Laboratory, Wright Patterson AFB, the group …


A Study Of Air Force Theater-Based Contingency Contracting Training Requirements For A Power Projection Strategy, Jon B. Tigges, Thomas J. Snyder Sep 1993

A Study Of Air Force Theater-Based Contingency Contracting Training Requirements For A Power Projection Strategy, Jon B. Tigges, Thomas J. Snyder

Theses and Dissertations

This research examined the training needs for contingency contracting officers for a Power Projection Strategy. Contingency contracting officers (CCOs) that deployed to Operation Desert Shield/Storm (ODS) where asked to provide their perceptions of the training they received before ODS, training and equipment needs identified as a result of lessons learned from ODS, and whether current training meets those needs. The results of the study show that CCOs believe there are many areas of training that can be improved to ensure future contingency participants do not have to relearn the same lessons of ODS.


Benchmarking Practices Of Air Cargo Carriers: A Case Study Approach, Mila D. Abalateo, Joni R. Lee Sep 1993

Benchmarking Practices Of Air Cargo Carriers: A Case Study Approach, Mila D. Abalateo, Joni R. Lee

Theses and Dissertations

This research effort used the benchmarking process and a case study methodology to determine what the Air Force can learn from commercial air cargo carriers. A literature search showed that the U.S. air cargo industry leaders are United Parcel Service, Federal Express, Emery Air Freight, Airborne Freight, DHL Airways, and Burlington Air Express. In addition, the 436th Aerial Port Squadron at Dover AFB, Delaware was chosen as the Air Force representative in the benchmarking study. Observations of air cargo operations and interviews with operational managers or applicable experts familiar with air cargo operations were conducted at each carrier's hub and …


Customer Service Analysis Of Air Combat Command Vehicle Maintenance Support, Lori M. Bass, Linda J. Dahl Sep 1993

Customer Service Analysis Of Air Combat Command Vehicle Maintenance Support, Lori M. Bass, Linda J. Dahl

Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this study was to recommend a more comprehensive set of Vehicle Maintenance performance measures. A survey was used to collect information from Vehicle Maintenance customers from various organizations throughout ACC. The research had four objectives: (1) identify the customer service elements important to Vehicle maintenance customers; (2) identify customer perceptions about how Vehicle Maintenance meets those elements; (3) compare the perceptions of different customer groups; and (4) recommend customer oriented Vehicle Maintenance performance measures. Data analysis revealed that quality and timeliness were the service factors most important to Vehicle Maintenance customers. Analysis also indicated distinct differences between …


Quantification Of Uncertainty In The Remedial Investigation/Feasibility Studies Process, Kurt C. Held, Perry J. Shepler Sep 1993

Quantification Of Uncertainty In The Remedial Investigation/Feasibility Studies Process, Kurt C. Held, Perry J. Shepler

Theses and Dissertations

This thesis developed a method to bound cost estimates with a prediction interval of costs for the Remedial Investigation/Feasibility Study (RI/FS) phase of the Installation Remediation Program (IRP) process. The prediction interval provides a reasonableness cross check for RI/FS project cost estimates. To develop the cost bounds, three major activities occurred. First, a database was developed from RI/FS projects managed by the Army Corps of Engineers. Second, a regression cost model was developed from the observations in the database. Third, a prediction interval specified at the 70 percent confidence level was derived from the cost model. This prediction interval provides …


A Case Study Of Factors Affecting Continuous Improvement In Dod Activities Operating Under Total Quality Management, Mark E. Gabriel, Theodore E. Manis Sep 1993

A Case Study Of Factors Affecting Continuous Improvement In Dod Activities Operating Under Total Quality Management, Mark E. Gabriel, Theodore E. Manis

Theses and Dissertations

This study looked at factors affecting the success or failure of continuous improvement initiatives in Department of Defense (DOD) activities to determine whether these activities were continuously improving and to identify factors effecting their efforts. Initially a list of relevant factors was compiled from the criteria for various quality awards and from factors cited in the literature. This list was synthesized into seven factors mentioned most often as critical to quality management and continuous improvement. Interviews were then conducted with representatives of the three commands included in the study. Each command provided information on a successful initiative and on an …


An Analysis Of Research And Development Product Team Characteristics For The System Acquisition Environment, Robert C. Gibson, Mary E. Waker Sep 1993

An Analysis Of Research And Development Product Team Characteristics For The System Acquisition Environment, Robert C. Gibson, Mary E. Waker

Theses and Dissertations

The focus of this thesis was on product team characteristics in the systems acquisition environment. This research investigated the characteristics of the Saturn Corp product team organizational structure and also reviewed literature relevant to this area. The characteristics identified by Saturn that contribute to the success of their product team were incorporated into a product team effectiveness survey and administered to personnel in the F-22 System Program Office (SPO) located at WPAFB. The results of the F-22 SPO survey were then compared to the Saturn product team characteristics in order to identify achievements and possible weaknesses. Overall, it appears that …


The Impact Of Goal Setting And Empowerment On Governmental Matrix Organizations, Stephen R. Corey, Patricea W. Hogan Sep 1993

The Impact Of Goal Setting And Empowerment On Governmental Matrix Organizations, Stephen R. Corey, Patricea W. Hogan

Theses and Dissertations

The matrix management concept is currently in use by many DoD organizations. Theories of goal setting and empowerment seem to align with some of the responsibilities assumed by matrix project managers. The research problem was to determine whether will-functioning government matrix organizations owe their effectiveness to a project-oriented matrix organization structure, or to good goal setting and empowerment practices by managers. Interviews were conducted at three SPOs at WPAFB and at DLA's DESC and DCSC. Qualitative analysis, including dendrograms and matrix displays were utilized. Conclusions include the following points: Goal Setting is not prominent, but may not be critical in …


Assessment Of The Effectiveness Of The United States Air Force And Selected Unit Vision Statements, Joseph N. Gomes, Quinn A. Gummel Sep 1993

Assessment Of The Effectiveness Of The United States Air Force And Selected Unit Vision Statements, Joseph N. Gomes, Quinn A. Gummel

Theses and Dissertations

This study assessed the Air Force and subordinate unit vision statements to determine how effectively current Air Force efforts provide vision for Air Force personnel. There were two main parts to the research: a literature review, and a field study of various Air Force units to assess the effectiveness of the Air Force visioning process. A review of the literature revealed the definition, and role, of vision statements, and identified five essential elements for effective vision statements. The elements of effective vision statements were found to be: a clear image of a future end state; a realistic and attainable goal; …


An Investigation Into The Effects Of Process Variation In The Base Processing Segment Of The Depot-Level Reparable Pipeline, Harold D. Hites, Mark Schultz Sep 1993

An Investigation Into The Effects Of Process Variation In The Base Processing Segment Of The Depot-Level Reparable Pipeline, Harold D. Hites, Mark Schultz

Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this study was to identify and provide pipeline managers with the knowledge and tools necessary for reducing process variation associated with retrograde asset flow time. Several Air Force studies have been devoted to researching portions of the pipeline process. Our study continues this trend of investigations by studying the Base Processing Segment. This study demonstrates the potential for analyzing the Base Processing Segment of the depot-level reparable pipeline using Statistical Process Control. Retrograde asset flow time data collection methods and current management practices were examined. Control charts were used in the passive mode to analyze and determine …


A Comparison Of Users' And Providers' Perceptions Of Critical Spacelift Vehicle Characteristics And Capabilities, Dawson S. Oslund, Mark M. Shafer Sep 1993

A Comparison Of Users' And Providers' Perceptions Of Critical Spacelift Vehicle Characteristics And Capabilities, Dawson S. Oslund, Mark M. Shafer

Theses and Dissertations

This study compares spacelift vehicle users' and providers' perceptions of critical spacelift vehicle characteristics and capabilities. The researchers conducted a mail survey of military, commercial, and civil spacelift vehicle users and providers to determine a criticality rating for each of the 22 characteristics and capabilities identified through a literature review. Primary results of the study indicate: (1) the three most critical characteristics and capabilities are reliability, launch cost, and resilience; (2) the three least critical characteristics and capabilities are man-rateable, reusability, and gross lift-off weight; (3) only launch cost has a significantly different mean 'criticality rating among spacelift vehicle users …


Computer Simulation Study Of The Joint Deployment Of The 23rd Wing And 82nd Airborne Division From Pope Air Force Base, John B. Prechtel, Mark S. Wingreen Sep 1993

Computer Simulation Study Of The Joint Deployment Of The 23rd Wing And 82nd Airborne Division From Pope Air Force Base, John B. Prechtel, Mark S. Wingreen

Theses and Dissertations

This thesis produced a model of the Army airdrop segment of the Pope AFB deployment system. The original intent was to model the entire system and simulate the simultaneous deployment of the 23rd Wing and 82nd Airborne Division; however, time constraints and incomplete data forced a reduction in scope. The study provides an excellent foundation for further research into the use of simulation to develop a generalized deployment sizing model. The airdrop segment of the system was modeled using the researcher's personal observations of the system, the expertise of personnel who work within the system, and documentation of the problems …


A Study Of Theoretical Models For Managing Technology Change And A Comparison To A Radio Frequency Identification Implementation, Mark S. Reboulet, Phillip L. Robinson Sep 1993

A Study Of Theoretical Models For Managing Technology Change And A Comparison To A Radio Frequency Identification Implementation, Mark S. Reboulet, Phillip L. Robinson

Theses and Dissertations

This research developed an aggregate model for technological implementation in organizations. The aggregate model drew information from various theoretical models and aggregated those elements that were common to several of the models. Those elements included: information availability, anticipated profitability, probability of success, user attitudes, political attitudes, external pressure, teamwork, strategic planning, resource availability, and training. Individuals involved at various organizational levels of a Radio Frequency Identification implementation were interviewed to see if the aggregate model could be useful to managers. The researchers found evidence that each of the elements of the aggregate model could be beneficial to managers considering implementing …


A Test Of The Theory Of Reasoned Action At The Group Level Of Analysis, Thomas A. Fitch, Edward A. Mccarty Sep 1993

A Test Of The Theory Of Reasoned Action At The Group Level Of Analysis, Thomas A. Fitch, Edward A. Mccarty

Theses and Dissertations

A vast array of studies exist which have sought to explore the relationships between behavioral intentions, job satisfaction, turnover and performance at the individual level of analysis. Recent efforts to move to the group level of analysis have shown some promise, but few exist. The crux of the issue under consideration here was whether or not there was utility in treating attitude-intention-behavior linkages as group level phenomena. Both Schneider (1987) and George (1990' contend that, while individual analysis cannot be discounted as a means of understanding behavior, there is also value in examining group-level phenomena. The purpose of this study …


A Study Of The Development Of Planning, Programming And Budgeting System (Ppbs) In The United States Department Of Defense, Sakir S. Kantik Sep 1993

A Study Of The Development Of Planning, Programming And Budgeting System (Ppbs) In The United States Department Of Defense, Sakir S. Kantik

Theses and Dissertations

Having served as the United States Defense Department (DoD)'s primary resource allocation and decision-making process for more than 30 years, Planning-Programming-Budgeting System (PPBS) has kept going its evolution since it was first introduced in 1961. Accordingly, this study examined the development of PPBS in the U.S. DoD from its beginning to the recent past, that is to 1986, focusing on its basic purposes, how it has been modified and to assess the various expert observations made about the system. As originally conceived, the budget process was divided into three phases: Planning, Programming and Budgeting. The Planning phase was concerned with …


Benchmark Production Scheduling Problems For Job Shops With Interactive Constraints, Stewart W. James, Bruno A. Mediate Jr. Sep 1993

Benchmark Production Scheduling Problems For Job Shops With Interactive Constraints, Stewart W. James, Bruno A. Mediate Jr.

Theses and Dissertations

United States Air Force (USAF) depots have expressed interest in utilizing DISASTER production scheduling software to schedule their maintenance operations. DISASTER attempts to increase system throughput by building effective schedules for system, constraint resources. However, when a system contains multiple, interactive constraints, DISASTER builds the constraint schedules one at a time. Since each successive schedule must adhere to timing restrictions imposed by previous constraint schedules, the quality of the schedules produced by DISASTER is dependent upon the sequence in which the constraints are scheduled. This thesis first developed a set of benchmark problems which provide a diversity of scheduling scenarios. …


The Future Sbss: Migration Of Sbss Functions From A Mainframe Environment To A Disturbed Pc-Based Lan Environment, William D. Rath, Scott A. Vesper Sep 1993

The Future Sbss: Migration Of Sbss Functions From A Mainframe Environment To A Disturbed Pc-Based Lan Environment, William D. Rath, Scott A. Vesper

Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this thesis was to determine the technical feasibility of a PC-based Standard Base Supply System (SBSS). The SBSS is currently run in a mainframe environment; however, the current hardware contract will be reviewed in 1997. At that time, a decision as to what hardware implementation best serves Base Supply needs must be made. This document evaluates various possible PC- based SBSS Local Area Network (LAN) architectures, as well as provides an initial direction for implementation. The current mainframe-based Regional SBSS implementation serves multiple bases via long haul networks and may not effectively satisfy Air Force/base level requirements. …


Scheduling A Medium-Sized Manufacturing Shop: A Simulation Study, Daniel J. Mcfeely Sep 1993

Scheduling A Medium-Sized Manufacturing Shop: A Simulation Study, Daniel J. Mcfeely

Theses and Dissertations

This study examined the application of simple-to-use, low cost scheduling methods to the operating environment of a medium-sized manufacturing shop. Computer simulation was used to evaluate eighteen different scheduling algorithms, each the result of the combination of a loading and a sequencing rule; due date setting was not considered since due dates are exogenously set. The loading rules investigated were Minimum Machine Required, Lowest Average WIP, and Lowest Average Aggregate Priority Level. The sequencing rules investigated were Priority, EDD, FIS, SPT, Slack, and Slack Ratio. The scheduling algorithms were evaluated against performance measures of mean tardiness, mean flowtime, mean percentage …


An Analysis Of Career Progression Rates Of Civilian Graduates Of The Air Force Institute Of Technology, Helena R. Hughley, Gene E. Massman Sep 1993

An Analysis Of Career Progression Rates Of Civilian Graduates Of The Air Force Institute Of Technology, Helena R. Hughley, Gene E. Massman

Theses and Dissertations

This study analyzes the career progression rates of civilian graduates from the School of Logistics and Acquisition Management of the Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT). The sample includes all civilian AFIT graduates who are currently working for the Air Force Materiel Command (AFMC). Actual promotion rates of the AFIT graduates are compared to promotion rates for two comparison groups: AFMC civilians with a master's degree from a civilian institution; and AFMC civilians with a bachelor's degree but no graduate degree. A regression analysis is performed to study the relationship between specific factors and a graduate's future rate of promotion. …


Identification Of Problems Hindering Logistics Support Of Commercial- Off-The-Shelf Computer Equipment, Jessie J. Rowe Iii, William Z. Zeck Sep 1993

Identification Of Problems Hindering Logistics Support Of Commercial- Off-The-Shelf Computer Equipment, Jessie J. Rowe Iii, William Z. Zeck

Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this study was to identify the specific problems currently hindering Air Force logistics support of COTS computer equipment and to recommend a support concept to overcome these problems. These objectives were accomplished with a literature review and a survey of logistics support experts. The survey asked the experts to identify problems hindering logistics support of deployable COTS computer equipment and to rank associated logistics support elements in order of importance. One hundred surveys were sent out and thirty- three were returned. Data analysis indicated that the logistics support elements that are most problematic for the logistics support …


Cost Estimating Cases: Educational Tools For Cost Analysts, Kerrie G. Schieman, James R. Passaro Sep 1993

Cost Estimating Cases: Educational Tools For Cost Analysts, Kerrie G. Schieman, James R. Passaro

Theses and Dissertations

The goal of this research effort was to develop educational cases that would bridge the gap between the theory and principles of cost estimating currently taught in the Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT) Graduate Cost Analysis (GCA) curriculum and the real world of cost estimating in the acquisition arena. To achieve these goals, the following research objectives were investigated (1) Identify cost estimating skills that graduates of the AFIT GCA curriculum are expected to possess. (2) Assess the relative importance of the identified cost estimating skills. (3) Select weapon system scenarios that are relevant, interesting, and facilitate student performance …


Measuring Productive Efficiency In Air Force Operational Contracting Squadrons: An Application Of Data Envelopment Analysis, Dennis W. Groseclose, Douglas E. James Sep 1993

Measuring Productive Efficiency In Air Force Operational Contracting Squadrons: An Application Of Data Envelopment Analysis, Dennis W. Groseclose, Douglas E. James

Theses and Dissertations

In an effort to improve the management feedback in operational contracting squadrons, this research concentrated on the development of an alternate method to measure operational contracting performance. Specifically, the research investigated the use of Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) to measure the productive efficiency of 45 operational contracting squadrons. Operational contracting managers were surveyed to identify critical resources to and outputs from the contracting process. Based on this survey, four inputs and five outputs were included in the DEA model. The DEA was executed for each contracting squadron under study. The DEA output provided improved performance measurement and feedback information. DEA …


An Evaluation Of Individual Empowerment And Self-Efficacy On Sexual Harrassment In The Work Environment, Rebecca A. Gebhard, Edgar J. Labenne Sep 1993

An Evaluation Of Individual Empowerment And Self-Efficacy On Sexual Harrassment In The Work Environment, Rebecca A. Gebhard, Edgar J. Labenne

Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this thesis was to develop an instrument that would measure an individual's ability to define sexual harassment and address gender discrimination. In addition, the thesis determines the relationship of empowerment, self-efficacy, and training as it affects the awareness of harassment. Extensive statistical analysis was performed on the instrument and sample data. The importance of developing this instrument is evident in its ability to create regression models to predict the existence of empowerment and self-efficacy which could be useful to improve morale and productivity. This thesis provides a history of sexual harassment from the difficulty in defining terminology, …