Implications of Early Vendor Down-Select in Defense Acquisition Programs

Abstract

This study aims to evaluate the repercussions of early vendor down-selection strategies on the success metrics (cost, time, and performance) of DoD acquisition programs. Research questions: 1. How do competition levels during the Technology Maturation & Risk Reduction (TMRR) and Engineering & Manufacturing Development (EMD) phases affect program success rates at different ACAT levels? 2. Is there a relationship between the intensity of competition at various stages and subsequent program outcomes, specifically whether increased competition correlates with higher success rates?