Optimizing Requirements Definition and Contract Management Processed in I Marine Expeditionary Force

Abstract

Contracting for services within the 1st Marine Expeditionary Force (I MEF) is a vital force multiplier that enhances I MEF capability to conduct garrison and deployment operations. Due to the similar and recurring nature of requirements across I MEF, there exist opportunities to optimize contracting processes to limit redundancy and achieve better contract outcomes. Current processes within I MEF limit the identification of consolidation opportunities, analysis of requirements, best-value contracts, and potential cost savings. This project evaluates existing I MEF contracting processes through semi-structured interviews with key personnel and analysis of the existing processes using process mapping, focusing on contracts exceeding the Simplified Acquisition Threshold (SAT). The findings indicate that current processes do not allow I MEF to pursue contracting optimization due to the limited authority and lack of centralized contracting structure. The authors recommend that a centralized contracting integration hub within I MEF be established to analyze requirements, identify consolidation opportunities, and develop standardized practices. The authors developed a process map using this recommendation, which would enable the contracting integration hub to pursue optimization efforts and provide oversight on all contracting matters in I MEF.