11.4. Knowledge-Based Acquisition
Knowledge-based acquisition is a management approach which requires adequate knowledge at critical junctures (i.e., knowledge points) throughout the acquisition process to make informed decisions. DoD Directive 5000.01 calls for sufficient knowledge to reduce the risk associated with program initiation, system demonstration, and full-rate production. DoD Instruction 5000.02 provides a partial listing of the types of knowledge, based on demonstrated accomplishments, which enable accurate assessments of technology , design maturity , and production readiness.
Implicit in this approach is the need to conduct the activities that capture relevant, product development knowledge. And that might mean additional time and dollars. However, knowledge provides the decision maker with higher degrees of certainty, and enables the program manager to deliver timely, affordable, quality products.
The following knowledge points and ensuing considerations coincide with decisions along the acquisition framework:
Program Initiation. Knowledge should indicate a match between the needed capability and available resources before a program starts. In this sense, resources is defined broadly, to include technology, time, and funding.
Considering the knowledge associated with technology, the knowledge should be based on demonstrated accomplishments. If a technology is not mature, the DoD Component must use an alternative technology or discuss modifying requirements with the users. By requiring proven technology before a program starts, we reduce uncertainty. Rather than addressing technology development and product development, the program manager and Milestone Decision Authority can focus on product development, because they know the technology is available. DoD Instruction 5000.02 enforces this concept with the following policy:
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Technology developed in S&T or procured from industry or other sources shall be assessed to determine whether they are considered mature enough to use for product development” (see the "Technology Readiness Assessment (TRA) Guidance ). . . . If technology is not mature, the PM shall use alternative technology that is mature and that can meet the user's needs or conduct a dialog with the user to modify the requirements. Technology readiness assessments shall be conducted by the PM and used by the MDA to assist in determining whether program technologies have acceptable levels of risk based in part on the degree to which they have been demonstrated, including demonstration in a relevant environment, and to support risk mitigation plans prepared by the PM. They will be focused on the specific planned technical solution.
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Post-Critical Design Review Assessment. Knowledge should indicate that the product can be built consistent with cost, schedule, and performance parameters. This means design stability and the expectation of developing one or more workable prototypes or engineering development models. DoDI 5000.02 lists the specific factors that contribute to such knowledge.
Production Commitment. Based on the demonstrated performance and reliability of prototypes or engineering development models, knowledge prior to the production commitment should indicate the product is producible and meets performance criteria. DoD Instruction 5000.02 lists some of the specific factors that contribute to such knowledge.
Full-Rate Production Decision. Based on the results of testing initial production articles and refining manufacturing processes and support activities, knowledge prior to committing to full-rate production should indicate the product is operationally capable; lethal and survivable; reliable; supportable; and producible within cost, schedule, and quality targets.
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