Defense Pilot Programs: DOD Needs to Improve Implementation Process for Pilot Programs

摘要

Over the last decade a number of studies have raised concerns that dwindling budgets and an aging workforce have contributed to serious shortfalls in the infrastructure and capabilities of Department of Defense (DOD) laboratories and test centers. In fiscal years 1999 and 2000, the Congress enacted legislation aimed at helping DOD laboratories and test centers address problems by undertaking pilot programs to explore innovative partnerships and human capital strategies. In fiscal year 2003, the Congress extended the 1999 and 2000 pilot programs until 2005 and enacted a new pilot program that runs until 2006. However, congressional concerns about pilot program implementation have been growing. Consequently, the Senate Committee on Armed Services directed us to review the implementation of the 1999 and 2000 pilot programs. In response, this report (1) identifies initiatives proposed to date and determines their current status, (2) examines factors that affected implementation of proposed initiatives, and (3) assesses implementation challenges the new 2003 pilot program faces.