The Initial Capabilities Document (ICD) is the most common starting point for a new
JCIDS requirement.
The reality is that, while not perfect, the
JCIDS process is necessary and valuable--after all, it has helped create the most powerful and joint military in the world.
(4) For that reason, and because the Acquisition Process has been studied exhaustively, this article proposes modest reforms to
JCIDS and PPBE in order to make the DAS more accommodating of combatant commander needs.
Each year, ARCIC enhances the capabilities and efficiencies of the
JCIDS analysis process.
If a materiel solution is validated, an initial capabilities document is submitted through the
JCIDS process.
JCIDS is the formal Department of Defense process for determining future acquisition requirements.
Moreover, CFLIs must formulate requirements and formally present them by means of the
JCIDS process to the Air Force Acquisition System in the form of requirements documentation.
However, as a recent study from the Institute for Defense Analysis notes, over the past decade
JCIDS has not altered any solution originally proposed by a military service, nor does it appear that the process has added value to the front end of the acquisition process for the programs examined.
As the Defense Acquisition Guidebook states, "Program affordability is part of the
JCIDS, which balances cost versus performance in establishing Key Performance Parameters.
Deliberate acquisition is governed by the Joint Capabilities Integration and Development System (
JCIDS) for requirements; the DOD 5000-series of regulations for acquisition guidance; and the Planning, Programming, Budgeting, and Execution (PPBE) for funding.
These processes have not kept pace with the urgent needs of the joint warfighter or the evolving Joint Capabilities Integration and Development System (
JCIDS).
One of the most significant Department of Defense (DoD) level instructions is Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Instruction 3170.01, Joint Capabilities Integration and Development System (
JCIDS).