Book Description

A conceptual model of the Air Force aircraft modification process was developed and validated in this thesis. The model was designed using the system dynamics technology and is a tool to extend the knowledge and understanding of the decision and policy-makers within the modification process. Sources of information used in the development of the model included both literature research and personal interviews. The personal interviews were conducted with Air Force, DOD, OMB, and Congressional people active in the aircraft modification process. Five key issues concerning the behavior of the system were identified and detailed. These issues were: the lack of a systems approach to modification management, the absence of a Class IV requirements approval process, the difficulties of management split between AFSC and AFLC, the priority ranking of modifications by the financial community, and the weaknesses of the process which are currently overcome by strong individuals. Five recommendations for change to the modification process were presented. The recommendations were to establish a requirements review, approval, and ranking process for Class IV modifications, encourage a systems approach to management, improve the credibility and understanding of the process, and encourage competition by several means.