Not many years ago the term “paradigm shift” was often found in everyday speech. It was widely and wildly misused. Based on my experience, I would say most people that used the phrase had no idea where it came from … Continued
If this article had a subtitle it might be something like “How did OTs get off track when they were on course to be the core of an alternative to the ponderous traditional acquisition system that makes fielding new capabilities … Continued
The problem: Because defense systems cost too much and take too long to field, DOD tends not to refresh or replace its systems on a timely basis. Instead legacy systems remain operational for decades; sometimes many decades. This in … Continued
First, don’t get me wrong. Other Transaction (OT) consortia as commonly practiced today are a welcome advance over business as usual. They serve a number of purposes from moving money quickly on to contract, to attracting non-traditional performers, and, … Continued
The power of OT’s is being rediscovered. Other Transactions potential to transform the acquisition system is being demonstrated. Yet, it is not uncommon to run into folks that think OT’s are used only to form consortia or aimed only at … Continued
The optimum way to execute Other Transactions is with a team of knowledgeable professionals. Before even starting on execution, an organization new to OT contracting should get together a larger group, including not only the core execution team but other … Continued
Cries for acquisition reform can be heard in the speeches of senior Defense Department leaders and members of Congress. There is much wringing of hands over the slow pace and high cost of fielding defense systems. There are concerns that … Continued
One of the areas of confusion and misunderstanding concerning Other Transactions (OTs) that has greatly limited use of section 2371 OTs is “cost sharing” a term not used in the OT statutes. Always remember the first principle of interpreting … Continued
In 2000, an amendment to Other Transaction for Prototype Authority (then section 845, currently section 2371b, title 10, U.S. Code) was included in NDAA 2001 that added what is now a sub-section (d). The amendment was intended to provide clarity … Continued
A tool or instrument is only ever as good as the user, as is the case for Other Transactions Authority (OTA). A sophisticated tool or instrument takes learning and practice to develop expertise. To date OTA has been relegated to … Continued