Digital Transformation in Acquisition: Using Modeling and Simulation to Advance the State of Practice

Nicole Hutchison, Tom McDermott, Megan Clifford, Camryn Burley (Stevens Institute of Technology)
Craig Arndt (Georgia Tech Research Institute (GTRI))
Tim Sherburne, Paul Wach, Peter Beling (Virginia Tech)
Dinesh Verma, Mark Blackburn, Hoong Yan See Tao (Stevens Institute of Technology)
David Long (Blue Holon)

Keywords
digital engineering;modeling and simulation;education
Abstract

Digital transformation is a key enabler for successful acquisition and sustainment in a rapidly changing environment of increasing threats and challenges. This paper provides an overview of digital transformation in acquisition and ongoing relevant work that contributes to the development of educational training for the acquisition workforce. One of the main contributions is the development of models and simulation for training purposes. The team researched on current uses of modeling and simulation before proposing models and simulation (“case studies”) that could be incorporated in the training materials at DAU and extend applicability beyond the DoD to contribute to the DE body of knowledge and DE community. The acquisition workforce must undergo significant transformation, which is not an easy transition, to overcome the challenges of digital transformation. Cultural change is an important shift that will have to happen in the workforce to enable digital transformation. This paper highlights the three-pronged approach for competency identification to support competency development. The research is centered on improving the acquisition workforce’s ability to support Digital Acquisition through the identification of critical competencies for individuals, and for program offices and the development of models and simulation in the DAU curriculum to enable effective digital transformation.