This book is one of many technical management educational guides written from a Department of Defense perspective; i.e., non-Service specific. They are intended primarily for use in courses at Defense Acquisition University and secondarily as a desk reference for program and project management personnel. These guidebooks are written for current and potential acquisition management personnel who are familiar with basic terms and definitions employed in program offices. The guidebooks are designed to assist government and industry personnel in executing their management responsibilities relative to the acquisition and support of defense systems.

The objective of a well-managed test and evaluation program is to provide timely and accurate information. This guide has been developed to assist the acquisition community in obtaining a better understanding of whom the decision-makers are and determining how and when to plan test and evaluation events.

Dr. John D. Claxton
Program Director, T&E
Defense Acquisition University