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
Organizations interested in innovation and flexible contracting should obtain delegations of authority for section 4023 of title 10, U.S. Code (purchases for experimental purposes) which while technically not using the language of other transactions is closely related in spirit … Continued
– Richard L. Dunn Don’t worry this short essay is not about the philosophy of Soren Kierkegaard. Instead its purpose is to illustrate that Other Transactions (OTs) do not fit simply into one box called acquisition or another box called … Continued
Richard L. Dunn – One of the most basic issues related to DOD Other Transactions (OT’s) is who has signature authority with respect to OT’s. What personnel and organizations may award and administer OT’s? Statutory Authority. “The Secretary of … Continued
Written by Richard L. Dunn (July 2017) Containing legal authorities in conceptual boxes that accommodate organizational structures and preexisting thinking is often bureaucratically convenient. It can also result in limitations that adversely affect mission accomplishment. The Technology Investment Agreement … Continued
Not infrequently government program managers and other acquisition professionals see an opportunity where some form of innovative contracting would expedite or enhance their mission. Sometimes they get a response lacking in knowledge and understanding, such as “Other Transactions are illegal.” … Continued
A December study produced by Air University suggests the Air Force further use the Pentagon’s other transaction authority (OTA) to partner with domestic commercial firms pursuing quick and rapid launch capabilities. The study, “Fast Space: Leveraging Ultra Low-Cost Access for … Continued