Army Information Technology Strategic Planning and Procurement Process

: The purpose of this research is to provide a better understanding of how the Army's Information Management (IM) Plan should link with the Quadrennial Defense Review (QDR), the Joint Vision 2010 (JV2OlO), and the Department of Defense (DoD) In formation Management Plan already in existence. Each DoD Information Technology (IT) goal is examined and planning techniques are suggested to fulfill the objectives. Next to personnel and training, resourcing for IT is the most costly investment the Army makes. In the past, the lack of a cohesive IT Operations Plan has made budgeting for the existing and newly proposed systems haphazard at best. With the increased concern in Homeland Defense, it is imperative now more than ever that the Army have a defined plan of how information systems will support the core business processes, be designed and procured in a timely manner, provide rapid information, and be safeguarded against intrusion. There is an increased call on technology to maximize the Army forces. Only by coordinating, planning, and budgeting in a timely manner can the Army hope to accomplish its ever-changing missions in both National and Homeland Defense. There must be a shift in the past methodology of systems design and procurement. As the Army moves into the new century, developing a timely and cohesive strategy for information systems fielding, security, and replacement is as important as that of any other weapon system. A well-defined IT Operations Plan is more critical than ever. This paper is meant to be an example for the Army and its subordinate organizations to enable them to create a successful IM Strategic Plan to link their missions with the higher headquarters' goals and objectives. The goals and objectives are from the DoD IM Strategic Plan. The follow-on assessments and suggestions are those of the author and various sources as indicated.