Posted by Acquisition Intelligence Cost Estimating
Lessons Learned Track
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Abstract:
Air Force weapon systems have become increasingly dependent on integrated intelligence information/data. Without it, some systems cannot execute their mission. Intelligence cost estimating has been a long identified need within Air Force acquisition organizations.
Under the direction of HAF/A2, and HQ AFMC A2/5, the Intelligence Costing Working Group (ICWG) was established to develop an Air Force/Defense framework for identifying and estimating the cost of intelligence requirements. The ICWG is chaired by Air Force Materiel Command’s Intelligence Squadron, Plans & Resources Flight (AFMC IS/A2X).
The ICWG goals are to 1) Develop an Air Force process and methodology for estimating the cost of intelligence requirements early and in all phases of the acquisition process (Capabilities Development, Concept Refinement, Technology Development, System Development & Demonstration, Production & Deployment, and Operations & Support); and 2) To institutionalize this process and methodology through inclusion in appropriate Air Force/DoD instructions, directives and any policy, procedures, or guidance publications and the Program Objective Memorandum (POM) process.
As future systems become more intelligence dependant, the cost of omitting intelligence integration will increase. The intent of the ICWG is to reduce and/or remove weapon system program delays and additional costs caused by poor planning for intelligence needs by institutionalizing the processes identified through the team’s efforts.
The ICWG has developed an Acquisition Intelligence Life Cycle Estimating Structure (AILCES), very similar to a Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) or a Cost Element Structure (CES) which was used to estimate the cost of the Intelligence requirements for the Next Generation Long Range Strike (NGLRS) Analysis of Alternatives (AoA). This was the first ever Intelligence Cost Estimate for a potential weapon system. Clear understanding of the AILCES elements and automation of a costing tool are the next steps in reaching the goals listed above.
Author:
Tim Edem
Timothy (Tim) E. Edem, GG-0501-13, has been Chief of the Plans & Resources Flight, Intelligence Squadron, Air Force Material Command, Wright-Patterson AFB, Ohio since July 2004. The Plans & Resources flight is focused on acquisition Intelligence cost estimating. He leads the Intelligence Costing Working Group (ICWG) which is developing a consistent approach to estimating Intelligence costs associated with acquisition program life cycles. The goal which has been partially met is to construct a cost estimating tool/model designed to estimate acquisition Intelligence costs to include Analysis of Alternatives and current programs across the Acquisition Lifecycle spectrum.
In 1976, upon completion of an associate’s degree in Math/Science with a concentration in Computer Science from Onondaga Community College in Syracuse, New York, Tim enlisted in the United States Air Force. Upon completion of four years enlisted service, Tim was accepted into the Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corp (AFROTC) Detachment 535, Syracuse University, Syracuse, New York and graduated in 1982 with a Bachelor degree in Accounting and Management and received a commission in the USAF. Tim went on to earn a Master’s degree in Systems Management with a concentration in cost analysis from the Air Force Institute of Technology in 1985. Tim also completed Squadron Officers School in 1987, and Air Command and Staff College in 1998. Tim is a Certified Defense Financial Manager and is Level III certified in Financial Management and Comptroller under the Defense Acquisition Workforce Improvement Act (DAWIA). Tim belongs to a number of professional organizations to include the AFA, ASMC, MORS, and SCEA. Lt Col Tim Edem retired from active duty effective 1 Feb 04.