An Analysis of Communication Between Program Managers and Contracting Officers and Its Effect on the Performance of the Defense Acquisition System

The purpose of this research is to investigate the effects of early communication between program managers and contracting officers on the performance of the Defense Acquisition System. To show the need for improvement and to determine problem areas affecting early communication, we used mixed methods’ research to examine current statistics and to conduct in-person interviews. With this research, we found a link between the quality and quantity of communications and the outcome of the program. Communication and program outcomes are linked through contracting products, which are a primary driver of program performance, and are significantly improved by effective and continuous communication. The primary method that significantly affected the quality of communication was to embed the contracting officer within the program office. In cases where this was not possible, it was necessary to align the contracting team organizationally with the requiring activity.