OFFICE OF THE UNDER SECRETARY OF DEFENSE 3000 DEFENSE PENTAGON WASHINGTON, DC 20301-3000

 

RISK
MANAGEMENT
GUIDE

Acquisition reform has changed the way the Department of Defense (DoD) designs, develops, manufactures, and supports systems. Our technical, business, and management approach for acquiring and operating systems has, and continues to, evolve. For example, we no longer can rely on military specifications and standards to define and control how our developers design, build, and support our new systems. Today we use commercial hardware and software, promote open systems architecture, and encourage streamlining processes, just to name a few of the initiatives that affect the way we do business. At the same time, the Office of the Secretary of Defense (OSD) has reduced the level of oversight and review of programs and manufacturers' plants.

While the new acquisition model gives government program managers and their contractors broader control and more options than they have enjoyed in the past, it also exposes them to new risks. OSD recognizes that risk is inherent in any acquisition program and considers it essential that program managers take appropriate steps to manage and control risks.

This document is a product of a joint effort by the Under Secretary of Defense (Acquisition, Technology and Logistics (USD(AT&L)) staff and the Defense Systems Management College of the Defense Acquisition University. It is based on the material developed by the DoD Risk Management Working Group. Material in this Guide is also reflected in the Defense Acquisition Deskbook, which can be found in the Acquisition Support Center (http://center.dau.mil).

 

Frank Anderson President Defense Acquisition University