Best Practices DoD Can Achieve Better Outcomes by Standardizing the Way Manufacturing Risks are Managed

Cost growth and schedule delays are prevalent problems in acquiring defense weapon systems. Manufacturing systems has proven difficult, particularly as programs transition to production. In Dec. 2008, DoD issued an updated version of its acquisition policy that reflects earlier consideration of manufacturing risks. A joint defense and industry group developed manufacturing readiness levels (MRL) to support assessments of manufacturing risks. This report assesses the manufacturing problems faced by DoD, how MRLs can address manufacturing problems, how MRLs compare to manufacturing best practices of leading commercial firms, and challenges and barriers to implementing MRLs at DoD. Includes recommendations. Charts and tables.