Synergistic Approach Integrating Joint Capabilities for USSOCOM Contingency Contracting: Construction Management Module

摘要

As a leader in front-line asymmetric threat operations, United States Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) has recently increased its presence around the world in support of military and national security objectives. Its mission demands flexibility and adaptability at the highest extent allowable under the law. Contingency Contracting Officers (CCOs) supporting this mission are often looked upon as logistics facilitators, business advisors, resource managers, and general tactical experts in achieving contractual requirements and arrangements supporting the USSOCOM mission. As key enablers of this mission, CCOs are often asked to fulfill construction contract requirements in austere locations with little or no training in construction terminology and concepts. This project investigates the effectiveness of CCOs in executing construction requirements within the USSOCOM area of responsibility (AOR). The study provides strategic and tactical recommendations to address identified weaknesses, such as: proper training and manning of personnel, inadequate acquisition planning and contract management processes, and a lack of integration among a splintered platform of cross-functional stakeholders. One such tactical recommendation is the development of a prototype Construction Management Module (CM2) to better manage the contingency contracting process for construction requirements. This recommendation is provided to improve specific problems realized with inadequate acquisition planning, insufficient oversight of work, and failure to include the appropriate funding considerations, clauses and evaluation factors in construction contracts.