Analysis of the DoD 5000.2R project management process

Abstract

Acquisition of weapon systems for the Department of Defense is governed by the regulation DoD 5000.2R, "Mandatory Procedures for Major Defense Acquisition Programs (MDAPs) and Major Automated Information System (MAIS) acquisition Programs." During acquisition reform, this document was created as a simplified regulation to allow regulatory relief to acquisition project managers. It replaced two lengthy volumes providing requirements and guidance on acquisition procedures. The thesis analyzes the new regulation from a project process perspective. First, a requirements analysis is performed to identify project management requirements. Second, a functional analysis allocates these requirements to a timeline, creating a "Functional Architecture." The Functional Architecture provides the basis for evaluation of the DoD 5000.2R project management process. Finally, an evaluation is conducted from comparison with established communications models and management studies. Results of these analyses reveal over 3000 tasks are required of acquisition programs. This large number of requirements indicates extreme oversight of acquisition programs continues within acquisition reform. Recommendations are made for reevaluation of DoD policy on acquisition management and rewrite of DoD 5000.2R.