File Number: NPS-AM-06-010

Author: Rene G.  Rendon 

Title: Using a Modular Open Systems Approach in Defense Acquisitions: Implications for the Contracting Process

Published: January 2006

Sponsored by: Acquisition Chair, Naval Postgraduate School

Full Text URL: http://www.acquisitionresearch.net/_files/FY2006/NPS-AM-06-010.pdf

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Abstract:

This research paper explores the use of the modular open systems approach (MOSA) as a method for implementing an evolutionary acquisition strategy and investigates the implications of using the MOSA on the contracting process.  First, a background on evolutionary acquisition is presented from a perspective of current DoD acquisition regulations.  Next, basic concepts of open systems are discussed, along with applications of the open systems approach to defense systems development and acquisition.  The implications of using a modular open systems approach on the contracting process is then presented, with a focused discussion on the various contracting activities and documents related to each phase of the contracting process.  The report uses the generally accepted phases of the contracting process—procurement planning, solicitation planning, solicitation, source selection, contract administration, and contract closeout to discuss the contracting activities and documents that should be affected by using a modular open systems approach.  Additionally, a brief highlight of intellectual property issues is provided, along with a review of the applicable major regulatory provisions.  The research concludes with the identification of the characteristics of a successful MOSA program procurement and resulting contract and provides areas for further study.

Keywords: evolutionary acquisition, contract management, open systems, procurement, systems engineering

About the Author:

Rene G. Rendon is on the faculty of the Naval Postgraduate School where he teaches graduate acquisition and contract management courses.  Prior to his appointment at the Naval Postgraduate School, he served for more than 22 years as an acquisition and contracting officer in the United States Air Force.  His Air Force career included assignments as a contracting officer for major space launch systems and satellite programs, as well as the F-22 Advanced Tactical Fighter and the Peacekeeper ICBM.  Rendon also served as a contracting squadron commander, and as a contracts manager for the NCR Corporation.  He has earned Bachelor, Master’s, and Doctorate degrees in business administration and has taught for the UCLA Government Contracts program and was also a senior faculty member for the Keller Graduate School of Management.

Rene G. Rendon

Lecturer

Graduate School of Business and Public Policy

Naval Postgraduate School

Monterey, CA 93945-5197

Tel: (831) 656-3464

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The research presented in this report was supported by the Acquisition Chair of the Graduate School of Business & Public Policy at the Naval Postgraduate School.

To collaborate on Defense Acquisition Research or to become a research sponsor, please contact:

RADM James B. Greene, USN, (Ret), Acquisition Chair
Tel: (831) 656-2092
Fax: (831) 656-2253
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