War-winning capabilities…on time, on cost
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AAC/ASC/ESC MILESTONE DECISION PROCESS GUIDE 
War-winning capabilities…on time, on cost Published and maintained by the AAC/ASC/ESC Product Centers’ Acquisition Centers of Excellence (ACE). 1 July 2010 PREFACE This Milestone Decision Process Guide describes the standard process for obtaining DoD 5000 series milestone decisions. This Guide is designed for all ACAT Programs where the Milestone Decision Authority (MDA) is an Air Force Program Executive Officer (AFPEO). Programs with an AFPEO as the MDA will normally be those ACAT II programs where MDA authority is delegated from SAF/AQ and all ACAT III programs. This Guide also provides process guidance for ACAT I and non-delegated ACAT II programs, when the MDA is above the AFPEO. That includes the SAF/AQ and the USD(AT&L). A few key elements identified in this guide are roles and responsibilities of relevant organizations, documentation requirements, overall milestone decision process flow, tools and templates, as well as ways in which to streamline and improve your program's chance for success. This Process Guide has been designed to provide the acquisition workforce and our industry partners with a more effective, user-friendly capability to access best business practice, supporting policy, and lessons learned. The Acquisition Center of Excellence (ACE) office at each AFMC product center will be involved with you throughout the implementation of this most important business process.
Over the past several years, Air Force Materiel Command (AFMC) has operated without a standard, Command-wide Milestone Decision process for all Acquisition Category (ACAT) programs. Programs preparing for a Milestone review rely on the best practices and procedures necessary to guide them through the process that have been developed by the local AFMC Product Center ACE. The following process guide updates the Milestone review best practices and procedures, developed by the AFPEO ACE offices, to reflect the changes to DoDI 5000.02 (8 Dec 08), AFI 63-101 (19 Feb 10), AF Pamphlet 63-128 (5 Oct 09), and the Weapon System Acquisition Reform Act, Public Law 111-23(22 May 09). DESCRIPTION OF MILESTONES, PHASES, AND MID-PHASE ASSESSMENTS 
General. The life cycle process consists of periods of program activity called phases, separated by decision points called milestones, such as Milestone A. Some phases are divided into two efforts separated by program reviews, called mid-phase assessments, such as the Post-CDR Assessment during the EMD Phase. These milestones and other decision points provide both the Program Manager (PM) and Milestone Decision Authorities (MDAs) the framework with which to review acquisition programs, monitor and administer progress, identify problems, and make corrections. The MDA will approve entrance into the appropriate phase or effort of the acquisition process by signing an Acquisition Decision Memorandum (ADM) upon completion of a successful decision review. Other people who are major players in the milestone decision process are the Center Senior Functionals (CSFs). They are the senior leaders of the functional directorates that support the center commander, e.g., AAC/EN, ASC/PK, ESC/AQ, etc. The Organizational Senior Functionals (OSFs) are also significant players in the process. The OSFs are the people in senior functional positions at the individual PEO directorate level. There is no single design; each program structure must be based on that program’s unique set of requirements and available technology. The process of adjusting the life cycle to fit a particular set of programmatic circumstances is often referred to as “tailoring”. The number of phases, key activities, and decision points are tailored by the PM (with MDA approval), based on an objective assessment of the program’s technical maturity and risks. For more details on tailoring, see DoDD 5000.01, paragraph 4.3.1. Milestone decisions are made by the MDA depending on the acquisition category (ACAT) of the program. ACAT levels are determined by program dollar value or, in some cases, special high level interest in the program. Materiel Development Decision (MDD) Review. The MDD review, mandatory for all new programs, is the formal entry point into the acquisition process. The results of the MDD review with the MDA are documented in an ADM that defines the approval of the Analysis of Alternatives (AoA) study guidance and identifies the initial milestone entry point. At the MDD, the MDA: Approves AoA Study Guidance or Reviews the Results of Previously conducted AoA Activity; Identifies Promising Technologies (Consider Cost, Schedule, Performance, and Risk Factors with each Technology Considered); Determines the acquisition phase of entry, with associated entry and exit criteria; identifies initial review milestone; designates lead DoD Component, if applicable; and finally approves the ADM. Depending on the technical maturity of the proposed solution, the PM can recommend to the MDA entry into any of the program phases. At the MDD for MDAP programs, the MDA directs the initiation of the AoA (Study Guidance is then approved by the OSD Director of Cost Assessment and Program Evaluation (D, CAPE)) or reviews the results of previously conducted AoA Activity. Typical MDD Documentation Requirements (As required): - AoA Study Guidance - Any previously conducted AoAs - Concept Characterization Technical Descriptions (CCTD) - Initial Capabilities Document (ICD) - Market Research Materiel Solution Analysis Phase. The Materiel Solution Analysis Phase begins with the Materiel Development Decision Review. An approved warfighter user developed ICD and approved AoA guidance are required to enter the Materiel Solution Analysis Phase. The AoA assesses potential materiel solutions to satisfy the capability need documented in the approved ICD. It focuses on identification and analysis of alternatives, measures of effectiveness, cost, schedule, concepts of operations, and overall risk, including the sensitivity of each alternative to possible changes in key assumptions or variables. The AoA also assesses Critical Technology Elements (CTEs) associated with each proposed materiel solution, including technology maturity, integration risk, manufacturing feasibility, and, where necessary, technology maturation and demonstration needs. The Materiel Solution Analysis Phase ends when the AoA has been completed, materiel solution options for the capability need identified in the approved ICD have been recommended by the lead DoD Component conducting the AoA, and the phase-specific entrance criteria for the initial review milestone have been satisfied. Milestone A. Entrance into the Technology Development phase at Milestone A depends on the completion of the AoA, a proposed materiel solution and full funding for the planned phase activity. At Milestone A, the MDA shall review the proposed materiel solution and the draft Technology Development Strategy (TDS). In addition the MDA approves the exit criteria for next phase; and signs the Milestone A Certification (10 USC 2366a) if the program is a Major Defense Acquisition Program (MDAP); and issues the Acquisition Decision Memorandum (ADM). The Technology Development Phase begins when the MDA has approved a materiel solution, the TDS, and has documented the decision in an ADM. Typical Milestone A Documentation Requirements (As required): - Acquisition Decision Memorandum (ADM) - Analysis of Alternatives (AoA) - Acquisition Information Assurance Strategy - Clinger-Cohen Act (CCA) Compliance - CIO Confirmation of CCA Compliance (for MDAPs & MAIS, DoD CIO confirms) - Consideration of Technology Issues - Component Cost Estimate (CCE) - Economic Analysis (for MAIS Programs) - Initial Capabilities Document (ICD) - Item Unique Identification (IUID) Implementation Plan - Life Cycle Signature Support Plan - Market Research - MDA Program Certification (For MDAP Programs) - Program Protection Plan (PPP) - Systems Engineering Plan (SEP) - Technology Development Strategy (TDS) - Test & Evaluation Strategy (TES) - Cooperative Opportunities - Data Management Strategy Technology Development Phase. The purpose of this phase is to reduce technology risk, determine and mature the appropriate set of technologies to be integrated into a full system, and to demonstrate Critical Technology Elements (CTEs) competitive prototypes at the system or subsystem level. Competitive prototyping is a statutory requirement for MDAP programs. Technology Development is a continuous process reflecting close collaboration between the Science and Technology community, the user and the system developer. It is an iterative process designed to assess the viability of technologies while simultaneously refining user requirements. Projects exit Technology Development when an affordable program or increment of militarily useful capability has been identified; the technology (Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 6) and manufacturing (Manufacturing Readiness Level (MRL) 6) processes for that program or increment have been assessed and demonstrated in a relevant environment; manufacturing risks have been identified; a system or increment can be developed for production within a short timeframe (normally less than 5 years for weapon systems); or, when the MDA decides to terminate the effort. During the Technology Development, the user shall prepare the Capability Development Document (CDD) to support initiation of the acquisition program or evolutionary increment, refine the integrated architecture, and clarify how the program will lead to joint warfighting capability. The CDD builds on the ICD and provides the detailed operational performance parameters necessary to complete design of the proposed system. Post-Preliminary Design Review (PDR) Report and Assessment. When consistent with the Technology Development Phase objective, associated prototyping activity, and the MDA approved Technology Development Strategy (TDS), the PM should plan a PDR before Milestone B, as appropriate. PDR planning shall be reflected in the TDS and shall be conducted for the candidate design(s) to establish the allocated baseline (hardware, software, human/support systems) and underlying architectures and to define a high-confidence design. All system elements (hardware and software) shall be at a level of maturity commensurate with cost estimate and identify remaining design, integration and manufacturing risks. The Post-PDR Report and Assessment are accomplished as part of the preparation for Milestone B (MS B), when PDR occurs during the Technology Development Phase. The Post-PDR report shall be provided to the MDA at Milestone B and include recommended requirement trades based upon an assessment of cost, schedule and performance risk. The results of Post-PDR Assessment by the MDA are documented in an ADM that provides direction on the required future activities of the program. Milestone B. Engineering and Manufacturing Development (EMD) begins at Milestone B. Milestone B is also considered Program Initiation for most programs. At this Milestone the MDA shall approve: Entry into EMD phase; the Acquisition Strategy; Acquisition Program Baseline; Low Rate Initial Production (LRIP) quantities, if an LRIP is planned; Exit criteria for next phase; the Type of Contract; the Milestone B Certification (10 USC 2366b), if the program is a Major Defense Acquisition Program (MDAP); and finally the ADM. Entrance into the EMD phase depends on technology and manufacturing maturity (including software), approved requirements documented in the Capability Development Document (CDD), and full funding. Milestone B Typical Documentation Requirements (As required): - Acquisition Decision Memorandum (ADM) - Analysis of Alternatives (AoA) (update) - Acquisition Strategy - Affordability Assessment - Acquisition Program Baseline - Acquisition Information Assurance Strategy - Alternate Live Fire T&E Plan - Benefit Analysis & Determination - Capability Development Document (CDD) - Clinger-Cohen Act (CCA) Compliance - CIO Confirmation of CCA Compliance (for MDAPs & MAIS, DoD CIO confirms) - Consideration of Technology Issues (for ACAT I & II Programs) - Competition Analysis - Component Cost Estimate (CCE) - Cooperative Opportunities - Core Logistics Analysis/Source of Repair Analysis - Cost Analysis Requirements Description (CARD) (MDAP & MAIS) - Cost Benefit Analysis (CBA) for Sustainment - Corrosion Prevention Control Plan - Data Management Strategy (in acquisition strategy) - Economic Analysis (for MAIS Programs) - Exit Criteria - Initial Capabilities Document (ICD) - Independent Cost Estimate (ICE) (ACAT I) - Independent Technology Readiness Assessment (TRA) (ACAT ID) - Information Support Plan (ISP) - Industrial Base Capabilities (for MDAP Programs) - Item Unique Identification Implementation Plan (SEP annex) - Live Fire T&E Waiver - Life Cycle Sustainment Plan (LCSP) (May be covered in the LCMP) - Life Cycle Signature Support Plan - LRIP Quantities (for ACAT I & II Programs) - Manpower Estimate (for MDAP Programs) - Market Research - MDA Program Milestone B Certification (for MDAP Programs) - MDA Assessment of compliance with Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear Survivability Requirements - Net-Centric Data Strategy (in ISP) - Operational Test Agency OT&E Report - Preliminary Design Review Report - PM’s Developmental Test Report - Program Protection Plan (PPP) - Programmatic Environmental Safety & Occupational Health Evaluation (PESHE) - Replaced System Sustainment Plan (for MDAP Programs) - Selected Acquisition Report (SAR) (for MDAP Programs) - Spectrum Supportability Determination - SEP - System Threat Assessment Report (STAR) (for ACAT I Programs) - System Threat Assessment (for ACAT II Programs) - Technology Readiness Assessment (TRA) - TEMP Engineering and Manufacturing Development (EMD) Phase. The purpose of the EMD Phase is to develop a system or an increment of capability; complete full system integration (technology risk reduction occurs during Technology Development); develop an affordable and executable manufacturing process ensure operational supportability with particular attention to minimizing the logistics footprint; implement human systems integration (HSI) design for producibility; ensure affordability; protect Critical Program Information (CPI) by implementing appropriate techniques such as anti-tamper and demonstrate system integration, interoperability, safety, and utility. The CDD, Acquisition Strategy, System Engineering Plan, and Test and Evaluation Master Plan (TEMP) guide the effort. EMD has two major work efforts: Integrated System Design, and System Capability and Manufacturing Process Demonstration. Additionally, the MDA conducts a Post-PDR Assessment when consistent with the Acquisition Strategy, and Post-Critical Design Review (CDR) Assessment to end Integrated System Design. Integrated System Design is intended to define system and system-of-systems functionality and interfaces, complete hardware and software detailed design, and reduce system-level risk. The effort also includes the establishment of the product baseline for all configuration items. Following successful completion of the Integrated System Design effort, the program enters the System Capability and Manufacturing Process Demonstration phase. This effort is intended to demonstrate the ability of the system to operate in a useful way consistent with the approved Key Program Parameters (KPPs) and that system production can be supported by demonstrated manufacturing processes. This effort shall end when the system meets approved CDD requirements, has achieved required TRL and MRL levels, and is demonstrated in its intended environment using the selected production-representative article; manufacturing processes have been effectively demonstrated in a pilot line environment; industrial capabilities are reasonably available; and the system meets or exceeds exit criteria and Milestone C entrance requirements. Successful development test and evaluation to assess technical progress against critical technical parameters, early operational assessments, and where proven capabilities exist, the use of modeling and simulation to demonstrate system/system-of-systems integration are critical during this effort. The completion of this EMD phase and is dependent on a decision by the MDA to commit to the program at Milestone C or a decision to end the program. Post-Preliminary Design Review (PDR) Report and Assessment. If a PDR was not conducted prior to Milestone B, the PM shall plan for a PDR as soon as feasible after program initiation. Following PDR, the PM shall plan and the MDA shall conduct a formal Post-PDR Assessment. The Post-PDR report shall be provided to the MDA prior to the assessment and reflect any requirement trades based upon the PM’s assessment of cost, schedule and performance risk. The MDA will consider the results of the PDR and PM’s assessment and determine whether remedial action is necessary to achieve program objectives. The Post-PDR Assessment will be conducted during the Milestone B review, and prior to the Title 10 USC Section 2366b certification. If PDR is conducted after Milestone B, the MDA will conduct a Post-PDR Assessment at a time reflected in the approved Acquisition Strategy. Post Critical Design Review (CDR) Report and Assessment. A CDR will be held late in the Integrated Systems Design effort to provide an opportunity to assess design maturity as evidenced by measures such as: successful completion of subsystem CDR; the percentage of hardware and software product build-to specifications and drawings completed and under configuration management; planned corrective actions to hardware/software deficiencies; adequate developmental testing; an assessment of environmental, safety and occupational health characteristics; the maturity of critical manufacturing processes; and an estimate of system reliability based on demonstrated reliability rates. The Post-CDR Assessment is the formal entry into the System Capability and Manufacturing Process Demonstration work effort of the EMD Phase of the program. The MDA shall review the Post-CDR report and the PM’s resolution/mitigation plans and determine whether additional action is necessary to satisfy the EMD Phase exit criteria and to achieve the program outcomes specified in the APB. Successful completion of the Post-CDR Assessment ends Integrated System Design with the establishment of an initial product baseline and continues the EMD Phase into System Capability and Manufacturing Process Demonstration. The results of the Post-CDR Assessment by the Milestone Decision Authority are documented in an Acquisition Decision Memorandum (ADM) that provides direction on the future activities required of the program. Milestone C. Programs enter Production and Deployment Phase at Milestone C. At Milestone C, the MDA approves: the Updated Acquisition Strategy and Acquisition Program Baseline; Entry into LRIP for systems that require a LRIP, into production or procurement for systems that do not require LRIP, or into limited deployment for MAIS programs or software intensive systems with no production components; Exit criteria for LRIP if appropriate; and the ADM. The requirements document applicable to Milestone C is the Capability Production Document (CPD). Typical Milestone C Documentation Requirements (As required): - Acquisition Decision Memorandum (ADM) - Analysis of Alternatives (AoA) (update) - Acquisition Strategy - Acquisition Program Baseline - Acquisition Information Assurance Strategy - Benefit Analysis & Determination - Capability Production Document (CPD) - Title 40/Clinger-Cohen Act (CCA) Compliance - CIO Confirmation of CCA Compliance (for MDAPs & MAIS, DoD CIO confirms) - Consideration of Technology Issues (ACAT I & II) - Competition Analysis - Component Cost Estimate (CCE) - Cooperative Opportunities - Core Logistics Analysis/Source of Repair Analysis - Cost Analysis Requirements Description (CARD) (MDAP & MAIS) - Corrosion Prevention Control Plan - Data Management Strategy (in acquisition strategy) - Exit Criteria - Initial Capabilities Document (ICD) (if program initiation) - Independent Cost Estimate (ACAT I) - Independent Technology Readiness Assessment (TRA) (ACAT ID) - Information Support Plan (ISP) - Industrial Base Capabilities (MDAP) - Item Unique Identification Plan (SEP annex) -Life Cycle Management Plan (LCMP) - Life Cycle Sustainment Plan (LCSP) - Life Cycle Signature Support Plan - Manpower Estimate (MDAP) - MDA Program Certification (if program initiation) - Military Equipment Validation (in acquisition strategy) - Net-Centric Data Strategy (in ISP) - Operational Test Agency OT&E Report - PM’s Developmental Test Report - Program Protection Plan (PPP) - Programmatic Environmental Safety & Occupational Health Evaluation (PESHE) - Selected Acquisition Report (SAR) MDAP (if rebaselined) - Spectrum Supportability Determination - Systems Engineering Plan (SEP) - System Threat Assessment Report (STAR) (ACAT I) - System Threat Assessment (ACAT II) - Technology Readiness Assessment (TRA) - Test & Evaluation Master Plan (TEMP)
- Acquisition Decision Memorandum (ADM) - Analysis of Alternatives (AoA) (for AIS Programs only) - Acquisition Strategy - Acquisition Program Baseline - Acquisition Information Assurance Strategy - Beyond LRIP Report (DOT&E T&E Oversight Programs) - Clinger-Cohen Act (CCA) Compliance - Confirmation of CCA Compliance (for MDAPs & MAIS, DoD CIO confirms) - Component Cost Estimate (CCE) - Cost Analysis Requirements Description (CARD) (MDAP & MAIS) - Data Management Strategy (part of Acq Strategy) - Economic Analysis - Exit Criteria - IT and NSS Joint Interoperability Test Certification (all IT including NSS) - IOT&E Completed ACAT I and II (conventional weapons systems for use in combat) - Independent Cost Estimate (ICE) (ACAT I) (if MDA requests) - Life Cycle Sustainment Plan (LCSP) - Live Fire T&E Report (OSD LFT&E Programs) - Manpower Estimate (MDAP) - Military Equipment Validation (part of Acq Strategy) - Operational Test Agency OT&E Report - Post Implementation Review - Programmatic Environmental Safety & Occupational Health Evaluation (PESHE) - Test & Evaluation Master Plan (TEMP) Operations and Support Phase. During this phase, Full Operational Capability (FOC) is achieved, each element of logistics support is evaluated (e.g., supply, maintenance, training, technical data, support equipment), and operational readiness is assessed. Although logistics and readiness concerns dominate this phase, logistics involvement throughout the acquisition lifecycle (especially during the early phases) is critical in order to influence affordable systems designs and optimal program execution. The operations and support phase also includes life cycle sustainment and disposal. Disposal of the system occurs at the end of its useful life. The PM should have planned for disposal early in the system’s life cycle and should ensure that the system disposal minimizes DoD’s liability resulting from environmental, safety, security, and health issues. Environmental considerations are particularly critical during disposal, as there may be international treaty or other legal considerations that require intensive management of the system’s demilitarization and disposal. CONCEPT OF OPERATIONS FOR ACAT I AND NON-DELEGATED ACAT II PROGRAMS Purpose: The Milestone Decision Process is a standardized process for all ACAT I and non-delegated ACAT II programs providing guidance and support to these programs for obtaining milestone decisions. This process maximizes use of already existing Air Force and AFMC practices and procedures, resulting in this standardized Milestone Decision Process. Additionally, this process is aligned with the SAF/AQ Air Force Review Board (AFRB) process for ACAT ID, ACAT IC, and non-delegated ACAT II programs. Roles and Responsibilities: SAF/AQ serves as the Milestone Decision Process owner for ACAT I and non delegated ACAT II programs. Product Center ACEs serve as the facilitators for the overall process of program Milestone Decision preparation at the center level. SAF/PM&AE serves as focal point for ACAT I and Non-delegated ACAT II programs. AFPEO Program Execution Group serves as focal point for the Milestone Decision briefing in the AFPEO organization. Program Manager / Program Team is responsible for required documentation applicable to the Milestone Decision Process. The Program Manager is ultimately responsible for ensuring appropriate functional expertise (EN, FM, PM, PK, Log, IN, etc.) is engaged as needed throughout the milestone decision process. The PM will also ensure that he/she coordinates all plans for the Milestone Decision with the Center Senior Functionals (CSFs)/Organizational Senior Functionals (OSFs) their AFPEO, and SAF/AQ. PM (and the entire PM team) will ensure all plans for the Milestone Decision are properly coordinated with the assigned AFPEO staff and AFPEO. The cognizant AFPEO is responsible to ensure that the PM is ready for a Milestone Decision briefing to the appropriate MDA. That typically means that an AFPEO, the Organization Senior Functionals (OSFs), and the appropriate Center Senior Functionals (CSFs) will review all the documentation, ensure availability of required resources, and conduct pre-briefings, as appropriate. Tools provided by the product center Acquisition Centers of Excellence: Provided to aid in the milestone decision process are the following tools: Standardized Milestone Templates Milestone Document Matrices Air Force Review Board (AFRB) Template
Document Matrices These tools are available from the ACE organizations at each of the product centers for program teams to utilize in tracking, managing, and briefing their program activities required for a milestone decision. These templates are designed to be relatively comprehensive and are intended to be “downwardly tailorable” with the assistance of ACE and PEG acquisition support personnel and appropriate functional expertise. Standardized Milestone Templates provide a standard Milestone format to use for decision meetings to the MDA. Each Milestone template is specifically designed to meet the unique requirements of the decision. Use of the template is strongly recommended for all AFPEO delegated ACAT II and ACAT III programs, while recognizing that “tailoring” is inherent in the templates. Document Matrices identify all DoDI 5000.02 and AF 63-101 statutory and regulatory document requirements for each milestone decision. The documents in these matrices are listed in checklist fashion with embedded links to additional information about each document. The matrices have the flexibility to be tailored to individual program requirements for tracking and reporting. PROCESS FLOW Overall Process: The Milestone (MS) approval process for all ACAT programs is used to obtain MDA approval of program milestones and related major program interim decision points. These include MS A, MS B, MS C, MDD, Post PDR Assessment, Post CDR Assessment, and Full Rate Production (FRP) Decision Review. Program teams may tailor the process, with approval of their MDA, to fit each acquisition program consistent with technical risk, design maturity and sound business practices. Use of Milestone Decision Templates: In order to assist acquisition teams with the decision preparation, templates have been prepared based on the decision being sought. As the acquisition team prepares the briefing, the ACE and PEG are available to review and comment on the draft preparation. Depending on individual acquisition AFPEO CONOPS, the program team should review the Milestone Decision Review preparation—with the AFPEO OSF and/or the product center CSF. That will normally occur after the material has been reviewed by the ACE and/or the PEG. This usually is accomplished by a “dry run” of the information. The Milestone Decision templates guide the acquisition team in the preparation of the Milestone decision briefing to the MDA. Included in the templates are extensive background of the program, completion of entrance criteria for the acquisition phase being considered, and completion of program documentation requirements as prescribed by DoDI 5000.02. Many of the topics covered in the background section relate to the program’s acquisition strategy. The PEOs may use the CSF/OSF members as advisors during milestone reviews. That team is an ad hoc group that may be established by the PEO. Members of that senior acquisition team are specifically appointed and selected because of their critical center positions, but more importantly because of their backgrounds, experiences and the ideas they can bring to an acquisition strategy. In the case of the MS process, the team may provide consistent counsel and cross flow of knowledge from center program-to-program, and provide advice and recommendations to the MDA. The AFPEO PEG is the focal point and has the responsibility to notify the members of the briefing events, to include date, time and location. The PEG also schedules participation at the briefing to the MDA. Additionally, it is a good practice for the program team to work out functional oriented issues directly with both the Organizational Senior Functional staff/lead and the functional representative from the Center Senior Functional on the team early in the decision brief preparation process. This allows OSF and CSF functional leads to provide guidance, inputs, and support/buy-in/advocacy well ahead of the MS review. It is the responsibility of the program team to get on the MDA’s calendar. This is worked through the action officers on the staff of the various PEOs at the product centers. The team lead notifies the team members of the MS briefing schedule. The acquisition team lead, normally a PM, presents the briefing that includes justification for the decision sought. Team members and other advisors selected by the MDA may ask questions and/or make advisory recommendations to the team and MDA. However, it is the MDA’s decision whether to approve the MS/interim decision point review. The team should also have the Acquisition Decision Memorandum (ADM) available for the MDA signature. If the program is a delegated ACAT II, a copy of the ADM is forwarded to Air Force Acquisition Executive, SAF/AQ. Any action items assigned during the briefing session are documented by the acquisition team. A copy of the action items with projected completion dates is provided to the PEG action officer. If this is an ACAT I or II the SAF staff will have minutes signed by SAF/AQ. TOOLS AND TEMPLATES Several tools and templates have been developed to help guide you through the milestone process for all ACAT programs. These tools and templates should be tailored to fit the specific acquisition you are planning to execute. The following tools and templates are currently available from the product center ACE: Materiel Development Decision (MDD) Template: This template provides the framework for briefing and obtaining MDA approval for establishment of a formal entry point into the acquisition process. The outcome of the MDD briefing is the determination of the acquisition phase of entry, with associated entrance criteria. Helpful hint: Use updated AFPEO charts for the background areas where appropriate. Milestone A Template: This template provides the framework for obtaining MDA approval to enter the Technology Development (TD) phase for all ACAT programs. It is important for the MDA to understand what your program is all about and why you are ready to enter the TD phase. Helpful hint: Use updated ASP charts for the background areas where appropriate. Milestone A documentation requirements: This matrix identifies the statutory, regulatory, and current policy items that should be addressed for all ACAT programs entering the Technology Development phase. You can and should tailor these documentation requirements to fit your specific program. However, it is important to inform the MDA on the status of all applicable documents as well as defining why documents were tailored or were not applicable. This forms the basis of the MDA’s decision for approval of your Milestone A. Helpful hint: Save this file to your computer, fill in the matrix and then copy it into your Milestone briefing to status your documentation to the MDA. Milestone B Template: This template provides the framework for obtaining MDA approval to enter the Engineering and Manufacturing Development (EMD) phase for ACAT programs. It is important for the MDA to understand what you have done to date on this program; your plans for future activity; and identification of risk and your risk management plans. Milestone B documentation requirements: This matrix identifies the statutory, regulatory, and current policy items that should be addressed for ACAT programs entering the Engineering and Manufacturing Development (EMD) phase. You can and should tailor these documentation requirements to fit your specific program. However, it is important to inform the MDA on the status of all applicable documents as well as defining why documents were tailored or were not applicable. This forms the basis of the MDA’s decision for approval of your Milestone B. Milestone C Template: This template provides the framework for obtaining MDA approval to enter the Production and Deployment phase for ACAT programs. It is important for the MDA to understand what your program is all about and why you are ready to enter the Production and Deployment phase. Milestone C documentation requirements: This matrix identifies the statutory, regulatory, and current policy items that should be addressed for ACAT programs entering the Production and Deployment phase. You can and should tailor these documentation requirements to fit your specific program. However, it is important to inform the MDA on the status of all applicable documents as well as defining why documents were tailored or were not applicable. This forms the basis of the MDA’s decision for approval of your Milestone C. Post-PDR Report Template: This template provides the framework for briefing the MDA on the outcome of the PDR, and supporting the assessment of the program. Post-CDR Report Template: This template provides the framework for briefing the MDA on the outcome of the CDR and supporting the assessment of the program. Acquisition Sustainment Tool Kit (ASTK): It is a good idea to consider adding the checklist from the Acquisition Sustainment Tool Kit (ASTK) that addresses various milestones and tasks. The following Checklists provide great Milestone guidance: 1.26 (M/S A), 2.59 (PDR), 2.62 (M/S B), 3.12 (CDR), 3.37 (M/S C), 4.06 (Program Transfer), 4.42 (FRP), and 5.67 (Disposal). KEYS TO SUCCESS When using the Standard Milestone Decision Process, there are some practices and tips that help your milestone decision to be a successful event. These keys to success have been proven over time to work and to help ensure success to those program teams that are on the right track to begin with. The topics covered in this section are: A. Advance planning. The importance of advance planning cannot be stressed enough. Planning for milestone decisions, especially for certain types of programs such as those involving the need for a frequency spectrum assignment, must commence a minimum of one year from the milestone decision date. The need for planning is to determine which outside agencies or other Air Force organizations are involved and/or have approval authority over some aspect of the program. When the need for a milestone decision becomes known, strong consideration should be given to meeting with product center ACE personnel right away to get an idea of the scope of effort involved and the timeframes required to complete all required tasks and documents. B. Early involvement of the local product center ACE and CSF/OSF staff. The product center ACE office should be involved in all milestone decisions for programs in the PEO portfolios. For all ACAT I and non-delegated ACAT II programs, the product center ACE will work hand-in-hand with the SAF/AQ to help these larger programs through the milestone decision process. This means that the product center ACE should be involved as early as possible in the process. The ACEs have representatives from all the major functional disciplines on their staff(s). These folks can reach back to their respective home offices to engage experts on topical issues to help get started with their resolution. In this respect, these functional and ACE process experts will be a vital part of your program team if you let them – in essence force multipliers for your mission. Properly cultivated, these individuals will help break down barriers, obtain access to decision-makers, and resolve issues in their respective functions. C. Tailoring of the process. The Standard Milestone Decision Process has been designed to be downward-tailorable, or have content intended for larger, more sophisticated programs that can be tailored out without impacting the quality of the final briefing or documentation product. This means that concepts or requirements of the process that are not applicable to your program can and should be eliminated or scaled back with the help of the process experts in the product center ACE(s). These experts can advise on the pros and cons of eliminating or adding additional topics and how the changes will affect the likelihood of success for your milestone decision. D. Opportunities to streamline the schedule. Part of the concept of tailoring the Standard Milestone Decision process for your individual program is to look for opportunities to streamline your timeline. In these cases, and with the help of the process experts, it is possible to condense the timeline in ways that actually strengthen your approach rather than deter from the ultimate objective of a successful milestone decision. Streamlining is especially useful for ACAT III programs. Two such streamlining possibilities are:
E. Socializing your program. The term "socializing" refers to the concept of working issues and information transfer with the functional staff where a program's milestone decision will be made. As an example, for ACAT III and delegated ACAT II decisions made by the assigned AFPEO, the product center ACE, CSF/OSF//OSF, staff offices (EN, PK, FM, XR, and AQ), as well as the legal community (JA) should be involved throughout the process to understand the program and to help with issue resolution prior to the milestone briefing. When the CSF/OSF staff is involved and understands the program and its issues, and they have been pre-briefed, they will generally be a supportive member of the extended team. The product center ACE will help engage the CSF/OSF functionals as required and ensure that their involvement remains focused on the right issues. The product center ACE will also work with the SAF/PM&AE when the SAF staff is involved. F. Planning acquisition process delegations. There are several functions that the MDA may delegate to lower levels. These functions are ASP Chair, Source Selection Authority, Acquisition Strategy, and LCMP approval authority. PEOs may also delegate Milestone Decision Authority to a qualified Deputy. Time should be spent checking the potential for delegation of these functions to the CSF/OSF. The product center ACE, including the ASP Secretariat, can help with this thought process, since the ACE has experience with what has been/can be done. Delegation of these functions to the appropriate level can have a significant streamlining affect on acquisition schedules. G. Maximize use of existing, approved, or master program documents. Many ACAT programs are modifications to major weapons systems, such as aircraft platforms, weapon systems, or communications systems. In such cases, there often will be an existing LCMP, Information Support Plan, or threat assessment that has been approved at the platform level. When these documents exist, it is possible to use the approved document as the one applicable to your milestone decision without further revision. It is also possible that an annex to an existing LCMP or other document can be prepared to supplement the master plan for smaller ACAT program efforts. H. Put as much as possible in the LCMP. As the lead line suggests, smaller programs may be able to include all of their required documentation in the LCMP. When this can be done, the coordination and approval process can be much more manageable and control of the content is easier. Again, personnel from the local ACE can help you develop a document management plan. PLACES TO FIND MORE INFORMATION AFI 63.101 – Acquisition and Sustainment Life Cycle Management: http://www.e-publishing.af.mil/shared/media/epubs/AFI63-101.pdf AFPAM 63-128 – Guide to Acquisition and sustainment Life Cycle Management http://www.e-publishing.af.mil/shared/media/epubs/AFPAM63-128.pdf Acquisition Decision Memoranda (ADM) Website https://extranet.acq.osd.mil/dab/adm/index.html Acquisition Document Development & Management (ADDM) Community of Practice (CoP): https://afkm.wpafb.af.mil/ASPs/docman/DOCMain.asp?Tab=0&FolderID=AF-AQ-00-04-7&Filter=AF-AQ-00-04 Acquisition Sustainment Tool Kit https://afkm.wpafb.af.mil/community/views/home.aspx?Filter=MC-LG-01-82 Aeronautical System Center Acquisition Encyclopedia CoP: https://afkm.wpafb.af.mil/community/views/home.aspx?Filter=OO-DR-PM-R1 Air Armament Center (AAC) Acquisition Center of Excellence CoP: https://www.my.af.mil/afknprod/community/views/home.aspx?Filter=OO-AQ-AA-04 Contracting FAR Site (FAR, DFARS, AFFARS, AFMCFARS, etc.): http://farsite.hill.af.mil/VFFARA.HTM Defense Acquisition Guidebook (includes links to DoDD 5000.01, DoDI 5000.02, DTM WSARA): https://dag.dau.mil/Pages/Default.aspx Defense Acquisition Portal (Your One-Stop Source for Acquisition Information and Tools): https://dap.dau.mil/Pages/Default.aspx Defense Acquisition University (DAU) (Premier Acquisition Training and Guidance Site): http://www.dau.mil DoD Financial Management Regulation (FMR) (DoD 7000.14R): http://www.defenselink.mil/comptroller/fmr/ Electronic System Center Program Manager’s Toolbox: https://centernet.hanscom.af.mil/acqdev/pmtb/default.htmlSAF/AQ - AF PM&AE - Center for Program Management and Acquisition Excellence https://www.my.af.mil/gcss-af/USAF/ep/globalTab.do?channelPageId=s6925EC1351B50FB5E044080020E329A9020E329A9 USAF e-Publishing (AFI, AFPD, Forms, and Other Publications): http://www.e-publishing.af.mil/    
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