Army Information Technology Personnel Challenge (Are We Selling Our Seed Corn & Can We Buy It Back)

摘要

Intent: The purpose of this research project is to conduct a critical analysis of outsourcing Army Information Technology (IT) support and systems development. In particular this paper will focus on the down stream affect outsourcing has had and is having on military IT personnel (historically the enlisted 74 series, officer 53 series, and warrant 251 series military occupational specialties), and civilians. Based on preliminary research the term human capital crisis that has been applied to other parts of the government will be addressed. This research will include the resulting affect on force structure, training for all military personnel (enlisted and officer) and the projected shortage of qualified and experienced personnel that governmental prime contractors may face in the future. This paper (written as a fellowship research project) addresses: Discussion of historical software development for Army business functions. The laws, regulations, and policies that lead to outsourcing. Force Structure impacts and MOSQ course development. Comparison/contrast of commercial software practices and unique Army requirements. The impact that commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) solutions is having on business knowledge. Recruiting and retention of IT personnel. Conclusions: A new approach is needed to accomplish the IT support required by the Army of the future. Not only must the Army recruit and retain personnel accomplished in the latest technology, supporting contractors must maintain a rich operational knowledge of the Army as it transforms to the Objective Force. A new category of reserve personnel titled the Sponsored Reserve is proposed as a unique solution to this dilemma. The Sponsored Reserve is comprised of contract personnel that would serve in the Army Reserve performing similar functions as their contract role.