New support perspectives and contracting methodologies for the consolidated automated support system (CASS)

Development of novel and innovative ATE support concepts is evidenced by the Consolidated Automated Support System (CASS) Maintenance Support Pool (MSP), Direct Vendor Delivery (DVD), and Consolidated Support Pool (CSP) programs. These initiatives have simultaneously reduced total ownership costs to the Navy, improved operational readiness, and provided sufficient return on investment for the contractor. The migration of MSP to DVD to CSP has allowed the contractor to compile data required for determining trends, usage, and failure data. An important factor in ensuring success is the long-term commitment by the Navy and the contractor. This paper outlines support business process re-engineering required to affect cultural change.