An analysis of communication between program managers and contracting officers and its effect on the performance of the Defense Acquisition System
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Authors
Penn, Allison B.
Loya, Michael
Gilbert, Tristan C.
Subjects
program manager
contracting officer
Defense Acquisition System
communication
collaboration
contracting officer
Defense Acquisition System
communication
collaboration
Advisors
Yoder, E. Cory
DeJesus, Eladio
Date of Issue
2015-09
Date
Sep-15
Publisher
Monterey, California: Naval Postgraduate School
Language
Abstract
The purpose of this research is to investigate the effects of early communication between program managers and contracting officers on the performance of the Defense Acquisition System. To show the need for improvement and to determine problem areas affecting early communication, we used mixed methods’ research to examine current statistics and to conduct in-person interviews. With this research, we found a link between the quality and quantity of communications and the outcome of the program. Communication and program outcomes are linked through contracting products, which are a primary driver of program performance, and are significantly improved by effective and continuous communication. The primary method that significantly affected the quality of communication was to embed the contracting officer within the program office. In cases where this was not possible, it was necessary to align the contracting team organizationally with the requiring activity.
Type
Thesis
Description
Series/Report No
Department
Business & Public Policy (GSBPP)
Identifiers
NPS Report Number
Sponsors
Funder
Format
Citation
Distribution Statement
Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.
Rights
This publication is a work of the U.S. Government as defined in Title 17, United States Code, Section 101. Copyright protection is not available for this work in the United States.