What is the Cost Curve that We’re Going to Bend…or….  Bending the Cost Curve Value-Based Metrics

The USAF BTCC initiative is tackling the unsustainably growing costs of acquiring weapon systems.  But, how will we actually measure “the cost curve?” 

At least when it comes to Information Systems, the USAF will use the Value Assurance Framework, or VAF, developed by the Naval Postgraduate School for just that purpose.  VAF is based on the twin bedrock business truths that you “get what you measure”, 

and you “get what you pay for.” 

Fundamentally, VAF equates Value Returned to ("Utility" per "Cost") per ("Time").  Utility = measurably improved mission outcomes.  Cost = Lifecycle Cost, including for continuous tech refresh.  Time = Development Time + Testing Time + Certification Time + Deployment Time.

VAF suggests, specific practical ways to align standard acquisition processes and artifacts such as Contract Data Requirement Lists, Integrated Master Schedules, Work Breakdown Structures, Test and Evaluation Master Plans, etc. with the prime directive for better-capability-per-cost, and better speed-to-capability.