The revised acquisition process for major systems in industry and defense is shown in the next figure. The process is defined by a series of phases during which technology is defined and matured into viable concepts, which are subsequently developed and readied for production, after which the systems produced are supported in the field.
Acquisition Process Scope
The process allows for a given system to enter the process at any of the development phases. For example, a system using unproven technology would enter at the beginning stages of the process and would proceed through a lengthy period of technology maturation, while a system based on mature and proven technologies might enter directly into engineering development or, conceivably, even production. The process itself includes four phases of development:
- Concept development is intended to explore alternative perceptions based on assessments of operational needs, readiness, risk, and affordability.
- The concept development phase begins with concept exploration. During this stage, studies are undertaken to define alternative concepts and to provide information about capability and risk that would permit an objective comparison of competing concepts.
- The system development and demonstration phase could be entered directly as a result of opportunity and urgent user need, as well as having come through concept development.
- The last and longest phase is the sustainable and disposal phase of the program. During this phase, all necessary activities are accomplished to maintain and sustain the system in the field in the most cost-effective manner possible.