A comparative analysis of strategic approaches for Information Technology (IT) for Commander Naval Surface Forces

Abstract

As the lead organization for all United States Naval Surface Forces, Commander Naval Surface Forces (CNSF) is committed to providing operational commanders with well-trained, highly effective, and technologically relevant surface forces. Aligning itself with the Department of the Navy's Information Management (IM) and Information Technology (IT) strategic mission objectives, CNSF is dedicated to delivering secure, interoperable, and integrated IM/IT capabilities to the Marine and Sailor in support of war-fighting missions. CNSF utilizes several IT systems and applications to enhance information collection, sharing, and storage including the Surface Forces (SURFOR) Web, Training and Operational Readiness Informational Services (TORIS), and Continuous Monitoring Program (CMP). In lieu of the Navy's attempt to cut operational budget costs and become more financially responsible, CNSF is discussing options to increase its efficiency in IT contract management. CNSF-one organization with two Type Commander (TYCOM) staffs and support organizations-must institute a strategic approach for the management of IT to maximize efficiency throughout the organization. This thesis will focus on identifying strategic approaches to IT management, from both governmental and nongovernmental perspectives, that will best facilitate the acquisition and management of systems and applications to help achieve the goals and objectives of CNSF.