Business Commons^™

Building A Foreign Military Sales Construction Delivery Strategy Decision Support System, Deven R. Volk

Theses and Dissertations

This research builds a Decision Support System to help Air Force Logistics Command, Foreign Military Sales construction managers select a construction delivery strategy in support of weapon system sales to foreign countries. Delivery strategy options include the Corp of Engineers, Naval Facilities Engineering Command, private industry Architectural Engineering firms, the weapon system supplier, or the foreign country purchasing the weapon system. The parameters upon which the selection is made are program schedule, staffing requirements, weapon system development stage and design complexity, type of contract strategies selected, a customer assessment of foreign country requirements and existing conditions, and the ability to …

Partnering: A Constructive Approach To Obtaining Engineer-Architect Services For The 1990s And Beyond, Donald E. Nations

Theses

This thesis will focus on a method of doing business in which two companies, whose businesses are complementary, work together in a relationship that strives to benefit both.

Large corporations continually examine ways to constructively manage the vast concept of change, and maintain their competitive posture. One way in which some corporations are beginning to strengthen their assets and their capabilities to deliver products or services is through a relationship known as "partnering."

As an oversimplified way of defining partnering, in a business-to-business relationship, one firm specializes in providing a service required by another company that the latter may not …

An Evaluation Of The United States Air Force Vehicle Burden-Sharing Programs, Harold E. Frary

Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this research was to examine the issues surrounding the U.S. Air Force vehicle burden-sharing initiative with South Korea. In doing this, the study examined additional vehicle programs with the South Korean government as well as with NATO alliances to provide an historical background and insight into the concerns that faced vehicle managers with those programs. In addition, several transportation experts throughout the Department of Defense were interviewed for their perspective of the vehicle management issues which relate to these programs. This research revealed several issues that continue to concern transportation expert. These areas include the accurate and …

Analysis Of Department Of Defense Organic Depot Maintenance Capacity Management And Facility Utilization Factors, Marlies Dewoody

Theses and Dissertations

This study investigated the effects of mandated depot capacity utilization rates on throughput, inventory, and operating expense. The measures of merit analyzed were work in process inventories, leadtime, and throughput. Since the services do not use a common computer system to track/compute capacity data, a computer simulation provided the data used to meet the research objectives. The simulation modeled a serially interdependent system subject to statistical fluctuations. Variability in the system was reduced by reducing the spread around the processing time mean. Buffer inventories were placed in front of each process to protect the process from variability. Constrained systems were …

Determining Production Capability In Aircraft Maintenance: A Regression Analysis, Charles R. Jung

Theses and Dissertations

This research analyzed twenty-three maintenance constraint and three production output performance measures for nine SAC aircraft systems. SAS System for Elementary Statistical Analysis is used to analyze twenty-one months of ex post facto maintenance data. Correlation analysis is used to identify maintenance constraints that assist in explaining aircraft maintenance production capability. Forward stepwise regression is used to build predictive models of maintenance production capability for each of the nine aircraft systems. The twenty-three maintenance constraint measures are regressed against three productivity output measures: Mission Capable Rate, Total Not Mission Capable Supply Rate and Total Not Mission Capable Maintenance Rate. The …

A Meta-Analysis Of Pilot Selection Tests: Success And Performance In Pilot Training, William E. Lynch

Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this study was to determine if the characteristics measured by the Air Force Officer Qualifying Test Pilot Composite and Navy/Marine Flight Aptitude Rating were significantly correlated to the successful completion of flight training. Meta-analysis was used to: calculate the mean weighted average correlation, and correct for sampling error, error of measurement, restriction of range, and dichotomization. Over 200 studies were considered for the meta-analysis. The results indicate that both the uncorrected and fully corrected weighted mean correlations for a group of nine Air Force studies were statistically significant (p < .0001). The partially corrected (sampling error and dichotomization) correlation for a group of eight Navy studies was also statistically significant (p < .03), while the uncorrected weighted mean correlation was not significant (p > .05). There was no significant difference between the …

The Disaster™ Scheduling System: A Review And Case Analysis, Jefferson L. Severs

Theses and Dissertations

This research examined the capabilities of a new scheduling system, called DISASTER, based on the theory of constraints. Use of this system may be beneficial to the Department of Defense, particularly Air Force Logistics Command maintenance organizations. The research begins with a review of literature pertaining to manufacturing planning and control systems, including material requirements planning (MRP), manufacturing resource planning (MRP II), AFLC's Depot Maintenance Management Information System (DMMIS), just-in-time (JIT) manufacturing, and the theory of constraints (drum-buffer-rope scheduling) . The research then examined the logic and operation of the DISASTER system. Next, the research examined the implementation of DISASTER …

Leadership Self-Efficacy: Measuring The Effects Of Leadership Training At Squadron Officer School, Gilbert W. Jennings

Theses and Dissertations

This study used a measure of change in perceived self-efficacy as a method for evaluating the effectiveness of the leadership training conducted at the Air Force's Squadron Officer School (SOS), Maxwell Air Force Base, Alabama. A self-assessment survey was developed to measure the change in perceived self- efficacy related to leadership behaviors of the students when they compare themselves to their idea of an ideal leader/manager. Dr. Gary A Yukl's (1989) taxonomy of leadership skills was used as the leadership model in the development of the survey instrument. A statistical analysis was done to determine which of Yukl's skills showed …

A Contract Management Guide For Air Force Environmental Restoration, Grant S. Bowers

Theses and Dissertations

This study was conducted to examine the extent to which written guidance was available to Air Force contracting officers involved in environmental restoration projects. The study examines literature from sources inside and outside the Air Force, classifies it by source, and extracts guidance from the subject matter. The study indicates that written guidance exists, but is fragmented. As a result, contracting officers lack concise guidance on the special considerations in contracting for environmental restoration. Guidance from the literature is summarized and presented in a stand-along guide appended to the report. The guide is targeted toward new and mid-level contracting officers …

A Guide For The Consideration Of Composite Material Impacts On Airframe Costs, Jeffrey L. Isom

Theses and Dissertations

This study provides a guide to cost analysts who must consider the impact of composite materials on airframe costs. A literature review was conducted to determine the availability of cost models which incorporate the effect of composites on cost. A number of models are available, but no individual model was found that is applicable for every situation. In order to provide a baseline upon which analysts can compare model results as well as provide guidance in selecting cost drivers, a Delphi survey was conducted. Questionnaire results indicate that composite weight (as a percentage of total weight), composite part complexity, percentage …

War Reserve Materiel Prepositioning Its History, Its Significance, And Its Future, Jack E. King Jr.

Theses and Dissertations

This study puts USAF War Reserve Materiel (WRM) into perspective. Its purpose is to serve as an introduction for those who wish to further their knowledge of USAF WRM prepositioning. To fully understand the relevant issues concerning the placement of critical European WRM stockpiles, several areas of research are encompassed in this review. An historical analysis of US military logistics is provided. Then, an overview of current, world-wide events taking shape around the world, with particular emphasis given to their effects on US decision-making strategies, is accompanied by a synopsis of both US and Soviet military doctrine.

An Analysis Of Measures Used To Evaluate The Air Force Critical Item Program, Robert R. Lee

Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the potential of two measures, percent defects and cycle time, to measure the overall performance of the Air Force Critical Item Program (CIP). The need for such study was generated from the current absence of any measurement system available to evaluate the CIP. This research used these two measures with actual data, evaluated the correlation between aircraft availability and percent defects and cycle time, and analyzed management perceptions addressing the usefulness of these measures for field use. Performance of this analysis resulted in support for these measures by over two thirds of …

A Study Of The Air Force's Exception Management Process: Its Effect On Customer Service And Order Processing, David W. Jones

Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this study was two-fold; the first goal was to determine what the SBSS order processing is, and secondly to determine the effect the current method of ECC management has on the SBSS order processing cycle and the level of customer service rendered by base supply. The research revealed that exception management is a crucial component of a successful order processing function. Further, it was established that the level of customer satisfaction experienced is greatly dependent upon good order processing. Research further indicated flaws in the current method of ECC management and recommended further actions to correct the …

Challenges To United States Tactical Air Force Aircraft Maintenance Personnel: Past, Present And Future, Barbara L. Harris

Theses and Dissertations

This study assessed the challenges Tactical Air Force (TAF) aircraft maintenance personnel face as a result of the TAF reorganization. The goal was to provide aircraft maintenance managers a basis for evaluating and meeting those challenges. To accomplish this, emphasis was placed on documenting the concepts, events, and conditions which led to changes in military aircraft maintenance from the birth of aviation to the present. Current issues such as the proposed move to two-level maintenance and the formation of the TAF composite and Objective Wings were also addressed. Research was conducted through the review of available historical documents, complemented by …

An Analysis Of The Defense Logistics Agency Medical Supplies Requisition Process, Sandra H. Mchugh

Theses and Dissertations

Defense reorganization initiatives coupled with demands for significant cost reductions exerted tremendous operating pressures on the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA). DLA senior management focused on process management as an approach to simultaneously assure appropriate levels of customer service and cost. The first step in this approach was to fully understand current management processes. As such, the thesis objective was to document the medical supplies order cycle process by tracing the path of information through the logistics pipeline. Detailed flowcharts and narrative descriptions were employed to demonstrate the activities of those organizations responsible for processing Air Force orders for medical supplies. …

An Evaluation Of The Implementation Of Two-Levels Of Maintenance At Strategic Air Command Intercontinental Ballistic Missile Bases, Alan H. Russell

Theses and Dissertations

As a result of the 1979 Defense Management Review, Headquarters, Strategic Air Command has initiated programs of alternative levels of maintenance in order to trim excess costs. This study investigates the suitability of the SAC program which changed selected base-level strategic missile maintenance tasks from three to two-levels of maintenance. Using an opinion oriented questionnaire, this research surveyed a sample of missile maintenance personnel on their perceptions of the SAC program which implemented an alternative to intermediate-level maintenance. Analysis of survey results show respondents tended to believe the SAC program has not added benefit to their mission effectiveness. Other studies …

The Military Logistics Support Of Humanitarian Relief Efforts During Low-Intensity Conflict, Jangrumetta D. Shine

Theses and Dissertations

This research study was limited to two cases(Afghanistan and Chad) involving humanitarian relief efforts low-intensity conflict. To explore the topic of military logistics support of relief efforts low-intensity conflict, a study of the land, people, government, economy and history of each country was accomplished to provide the background for each humanitarian relief effort. These variables, with a study of the low-intensity conflict aspect, U.S. policy goals, the actual humanitarian relief operation, and the military logistics support provided used to the question: 'What are the key elements to provide successful logistics support of humanitarian relief efforts during low-intensity conflict?

A Method For The Optimal Disposition Of Surplus Air Force Motor Vehicles, Valerie A. Tredway

Theses and Dissertations

This study developed a disposition method to enable major commands to increase the value of their vehicle fleets by optimally replacing less valuable fleet vehicles with more valuable surplus vehicles. The value of an optimal vehicle disposition method is especially significant in light of the decline in the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) budget and base closures scheduled through fiscal year 1994. The Air Force currently spends approximately $240 million per year for vehicle replacement to maintain its motor vehicle fleet. It is advantageous, therefore, to consider replacing older vehicles in the fleet with newer surplus vehicles made available through …

Potential Improvements In The Logistics Acquisition Process Of The European Fighter Aircraft: An Italian Perspective, Pierluigi Ciardelli

Theses and Dissertations

This thesis was aimed at developing recommendations to improve the implementation of the Integrated Logistics Support (ILS) concept and the application of the Logistics Support Analysis (LSA) tasks during the current acquisition of the European Fighter Aircraft (EFA) by the Italian Air Force (IAF). The research was conducted through a wide overview of the ILS philosophy and implementation, specifically focusing on the USAF experience in acquisition logistics and the lessons learned from the European TORNADO program in the area of support. Although a successful model ready to be introduced in the IAF was not found, some recommendations for the EFA …

Military Standardized Transportation And Movement Procedures Detailed Manifest Data Storage Requirements, Philip L. Isbell

Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this study was to develop a set of useful solutions to the problem of storing and processing data generated by transportation data processing systems within the Department of Defense. The amount of data within the Global Transportation Network (GTN) will significantly increase due to the expansion of the Joint Operational Planning and Execution System (JOPES). Intransit visibility of troops and equipment during contingencies is the driving factor behind the increased level of data required by JOPES. The methodology used conducted a needs analysis of the problem, which was defined as an insufficient amount of storage capacity for …

Application Of The Deming Management Method To Implement Total Quality Management In The Dod, Shawn P. Lyman

Theses and Dissertations

This study looked for DOD logistics organizations using the Deming management method to implement TQM. A total of 21 organizations were identified that claim to be following Deming. These organizations were then questioned on what they are dong to implement the Deming philosophy. Each organization is presented and their program discussed. The techniques being used in the different TQM programs were then classified and presented according to each of the 14 points.

The Development Of An Instrument To Measure The Theoretical Parameters Of Charisma Within Organizations, Daniel K. Hicks

Theses and Dissertations

This study set out to identify the parameters in the existing leadership theories that lead to the attribution of charisma in organizational leaders. Once these parameters were identified, the goal was to develop and validate the means to measure the parameters. Organizational scientists began to wrestle with the operation of charismatic authority within organizations in 1961. A review of the literature uncovered eight theories that describe the operation of charisma with organizations. From these eight theories, 37 distinct behaviors or qualities were extracted. Each of these was theorized to lead to the attribution of charisma either singly or in combination …

Stockless Medical Materials Management: Applications For The United States Air Force Medical Service, Thomas M. Harkenrider

Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this research was to study stockless materials management in an effort to determine if it could improve the Air Force Medical Service's supply operations. The main result of this study was a decision support system (DSS) that would evaluate potential savings if stockless materials management were implemented in an Air Force medical treatment facility (MTF). In the process of developing the DSS, stockless materials management was studied in civilian hospitals that had previously converted to stockless materials management. Data included facility bed size, annual medical supply purchases, pre and post stockless medical supply full time equivalents (FTEs), …

A Review Of Selected Usaf Life Cycle Costing Models, Mark G. Twomey

Theses and Dissertations

This study examined the history of the development of life cycle costing (LCC) in the DOD and USAF, and reviewed 11 'mainstream' LCC models currently being used by the Air Force including the LSC, LCCH, ZCORE, CASA, PRICE H, PRICE HL, PRICE M, PRICE S, MLCC, Dyna-METRIC, and LCOM models. A literature search revealed that the last comprehensive reviews of LCC modeling in the USAF were conducted in the 1970s by the Joint AFSC/AFLC Commanders' Working Group on LCC and Rand. LCC's initial development, in the 1960s, was prompted by rapid increases in operating and support (O and S) costs …

Improved Decision Making Through Group Composition, William E. Page Iii

Theses and Dissertations

This experimental study attempted to prove that teams formed with dissimilar personality types would have better decision making than teams which were not formed by dissimilar types. The Myers-Briggs Type Indicator, based on Jung's Theory of Psychological Type, was used to determine the subject's personality type preferences. Subjects' perceptions of team processes were also investigated. The sample population consisted of military officers and civil servants who attended the Advanced Program Management course at the Air Force Institute of Technology. Decision making effectiveness was determined from team performance on the Time-by-Event-by-Member-Pattern-Observation system (TEMPO). The design for this research consisted of comparing …

Evaluation Of Corrective Action Team (Cat) Leader Training In Aeronautical Systems Division, Kirk J. Streitmater

Theses and Dissertations

This study evaluated corrective action team (CAT) leader training, a team dynamics and group problem solving course provided by an Air Force product division. A pre/post knowledge test, using developed behavioral objectives, was administered to 61 participants as part of an internal evaluation while 373 past participants were provided a questionnaire for a field evaluation. Results from the internal evaluation indicated that students learned the majority of training material presented in the course. Self-efficacy increased in most cases showing an improved self-perception regarding the ability to perform training related tasks. Predictors for a pre-test score model were identified, but overall …

Analysis Of The Cash Recovery Rate's Potential Application In Determining The Social Cost Of Capital, Francis J. Geiser Iii

Theses and Dissertations

This study explored the potential application of the cash recovery rate in determining the social cost of capital. It specifically investigated the results of using cash-recovery rate-based, internal rate of return-estimating relationships, which were formulated under assumptions of constant investment growth rate, to estimate internal rates of return for simulated firm-level financial data generated using both exponentially increasing and sinusoidal investment growth rates. An extensive literature review is used to build a analytical link between the need for updating the social discount rate, capital budgeting decisions based on internal rates of return, and the proposed behavior of the cash recovery …

An Investigation Of Certain U.S. Government 'Lessons Learned' Processes And Their Application To Usaf Research, Development, And Acquisition Project Managers, Mark W. Mcnabb

Theses and Dissertations

This study investigated the types of processes used by certain U.S. government agencies to provide 'lessons learned' that could be used by USAF research, development and acquisition project managers. Areas of interest include the types of agencies that could provide 'lessons learned;' the sources, methods, and techniques these agencies use to process (acquire, maintain, and disseminate) management information such as lessons learned; and the measurement criteria the agencies use to evaluate the effectiveness of these processes. A general literature search helped to identify eleven candidate agencies; eight were chosen for full investigation. A survey of each sample agency was conducted. …

Application Of Just-In-Time Production Methods In The Defense Industrial Base, Dominic J. Cirello

Theses and Dissertations

This study investigated the motivation for defense industrial base contractors to switch to Just-In-Time (JIT) production. Areas of interest included the original motivation for the contractor to change to JIT, how they implemented the change, which JIT methods they used, and what benefits they received from switching to JIT. A review of the current literature on the subject of JIT revealed that JIT is a philosophy of production based on inventory reduction, process improvement, and elimination of waste. This philosophy can be supported through the use of a number of different methods, and reductions in both cost and cycle time …

An Examination Of The Perceived Importance Of Technical Competence In Acquisition Project Management, Charles R. Baumgardner

Theses and Dissertations

This research examined the importance Air Force acquisition project managers attribute to technical competence, and several individual and situational factors which might affect their perceptions of the importance of technical competence: extent of acquisition experience, degree of technical academic training, level of project technology, caliber of technical project team, and acquisition phase. A review of the literature revealed that previous studies of project and program managers suffered from several limitations with regard to a direct examination of the importance of technical competence. No single study has empirically supported a clear determination on the importance of this attribute to project managers. …