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Question 7: How does your organization approach the design and development of technology (e.g., use of COTS [commercial-off-the-shelf], modularity, small distributed systems, Kanban, etc.)? What are the benefits to using this approach? 1. “My most recent organization used less developed systems (TRL-6 or TRL-7 [Technical Readiness Levels 6 or 7]) and found early utility. The capabilities did not require significant investment (e.g., an advanced GPS [Global Positioning System] or a large ground system).” 2. “The organization uses a variety of approaches, some traditional (e.g., Systems Engineering ‘v-Approach’ to requirements decomposition and verification), others more innovative (e.g., agile, modular and open systems). The main underlying theme across all approaches is a strong foundation in technical expertise by the government staff, including engineering domain knowledge by the lower level program office staff and an appreciation for technical complexity and detail at senior levels. This cuts down on technical challenges risks being “swept under the rug” and ignored until they are a fait accompli (issues), or worse, insurmountable.” Appendix D Culture, Organization, Motivation, Empowerment, Teamwork, and Knowledge (COMET-K Themes List)
CULTURE
Balance Security with Mission Structured Pre-Award Engagement
Execute at the lowest appropriate classification level to foster collaboration Industry days and meetings shape requirements and identify CTR talent
Flexible Funding Foster Innovation Emphasis on AI/ML
Enables agility, speed, and technology adoption
Encourage creative/innovative program management and decision-making Recognized as valuable tools for development, research, and monitoring Foster communication with stakeholders and industry partners
Collaboration and Engagement
Note. AI/ML = Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning ; CTR = Contractor. ORGANIZATION Contract Type Alignment & Flexibility
Match contract type to project requirements and technology maturity Rapid, incremental progress for consistent results Leverage OTAs, flexible frameworks, and agile approaches
Agile and Iterative Development Prototyping & Adaptive Acquisition Systems Engineering & Prototyping Dedicated Contracting Support Co-location and Collaboration
End-to-end approach, reducing risk through prototyping Crucial for responsiveness and program success
Enhances team efficiency and alignment
Integration in Decisions
Contracting teams should be embedded in program offices
Civilian & Contractor Staff Continuity Strong Leadership and Communication Proactive Planning for Changes Streamlined Decision-Making Integrated Teams and Coordination
Maintains program stability and expertise
Minimize disruptions through effective leadership & management practices Adapt to personnel and requirements changes Flat structures, minimal bureaucracy, quick approvals Utilize IPTs and strategic collocation for enhanced coordination Utilize OKRs for goal setting and performance tracking Continued on the next page
Objectives and Key Results
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Defense ARJ, Summer 2025, Vol. 32 No. 2: 132—193
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