The task group what prepared the report made recommendations in three areas: (1) internal DoD policy and process changes, (2) program and industry structure changes, and (3) messaging.
"With regard to DoD policies and processes, the Task Group makes the following recommendations:
- Establish FAR Part 12 as the default procurement method for non-platform acquisitions;
- Revamp DoD acquisition training to provide greater focus on FAR Parts 12 and 10, and commercial business models;
- Establish a commercial "ombudsman" with decision-making authority to help cut through and simplify DoD internal processes and to serve as an advocate for commercial industry;
- Rebalance policies on the ownership and rights to intellectual property; and
- Address and remedy unintended consequences of recent budget reduction actions.
"In the area of program and industry structure changes, the Task Group recommends the following:
- Require the adoption of an open architecture, modular approach to new mission-essential platforms; and
- Take steps to open a closed supply chain; re-examine industry structure and encourage new entrants.
"With regard to messaging, DoD needs to provide clear and consistent messaging as to its goals and interest in opening up its community of suppliers to more commercial participants. DoD must confront a widespread industry perception that DoD is against profit and, therefore, seeks to minimize it." (report, p. 6)
