Evaluating Digital Modernization: Enhancing Analytical and Decision Support in Department of Defense Acquisition Management

About This Report iii

Summary v

Figures and Tables ix

CHAPTER 1 Background and Context on Digital Acquisition 1

What Is Digital Acquisition? 1

Why Is Digital Acquisition Necessary? 2

How Is Digital Acquisition Achieved? 3

Congressional Focus on Digital Acquisition 4

Objective and Research Approach 4

Organization of This Report 5

CHAPTER 2 Summary of Digital Modernization Activities in Acquisition 6

Categorization of Digital Modernization Activities 6

CHAPTER 3 Digital Acquisition Use Cases 17

Use Case 1: Capability Portfolio Management 17

Use Case 2: Digital Engineering 20

Use Case 3: Implementing Executive Orders and Congressional Acts on Acquisition Reform 22

Use Case 4: Advanced Technology Adoption 24

Use Case 5: Air Force’s Digital Materiel Management 26

Common Themes: Potential Benefits, Constraints, and Enablers 27

CHAPTER 4 Assessment of Progress 29

Assessment Overview 29

Digital Acquisition Progress 30

Gaps and Opportunities 31

CHAPTER 5 Recommendations 37

Implementation Considerations 41

APPENDIX A Digital Modernization Catalog 43

APPENDIX B FY 2021 NDAA Section 836 46

Abbreviations 51

Bibliography 53