Potential for E-Commerce Online Marketplace Procurement Efficiencies in USMC Aviation Logistics

Abstract

This thesis examines the potential of e-commerce platforms to improve procurement efficiencies within USMC aviation logistics (AVLOG) in response to the modernization initiatives prescribed by the 2022 National Defense Strategy. It specifically explores the General Services Administration (GSA) Commercial Platforms Program (CPP) in collaboration with Amazon Business and determines how the government purchase card (GPC) can be leveraged to streamline procurement. Through qualitative research methodologies, including gap analysis and Task-Technology Fit (TTF) model application, the study aims to provide a comprehensive assessment comparing the current AVLOG acquisition process with the proposed ecommerce methods. The findings are intended to guide senior acquisition leaders in the AVLOG community by identifying potential benefits and barriers, including self-imposed limitations, associated with adopting ecommerce solutions for procuring non-aeronautical consumables. The study concludes that while the benefits of e-commerce adoption in military procurement are evidently aligned with strategic directives, empirical testing within the AVLOG community is essential for validating these findings and initiating necessary policy reforms.