What does OUSDAT mean in TECHNOLOGY
OUSDAT stands for Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Technology. It is the senior official in the United States Department of Defense (DoD). It is responsible for oversight and management of the department’s acquisition, technology, and logistics programs. The position was created on October 1, 1997 to replace its predecessor, the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Technology.
OUSDAT meaning in Technology in Computing
OUSDAT mostly used in an acronym Technology in Category Computing that means Of the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Technology
Shorthand: OUSDAT,
Full Form: Of the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Technology
For more information of "Of the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Technology", see the section below.
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Overview
OUSDAT works closely with other organizations within the DoD to ensure that effective systems are in place to effectively carry out defense-related tasks. Its primary purpose is to promote efficiency, economy, innovation, competition, and quality in all facets of DoD procurement. It also carries out functions related to research and development activities by encouraging collaboration between government entities and industry in order to ensure that new technologies are created efficiently and cost-effectively. In addition to overseeing the department’s acquisition process, OUSDAT works with relevant staff elements within the DoD to formulate analysis and guidance on major defense acquisition issues as well as provide input into overall defense planning processes.
Responsibilities
The responsibilities of OUSDAT include providing assistance with strategic goal setting such as developing plans for operations support systems; monitoring compliance with laws, regulations, policies governing acquisition; maintaining an awareness of new technologies; overseeing research projects; providing oversight of private sector contractors; managing contracts for services; ensuring funds are spent prudently; providing policy guidance on matters relating to laws and regulations pertaining to government acquisitions; evaluating contract performance; conducting audits on contractors’ use of funds; serving as a liaison between component offices within DoD regarding policy changes or technical discussions involving multiple agencies/organizations.
Essential Questions and Answers on Of the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Technology in "COMPUTING»TECHNOLOGY"
What does the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Technology do?
The Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Technology is responsible for ensuring that defense acquisition programs are executed in compliance with legal requirements and consistent with the policies and objectives established by the Department of Defense. This includes providing oversight and guidance on a variety of topics such as technological development, procurement management, research and development, risk management, personnel policy, and budgeting.
How is the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Technology appointed?
The Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Technology is appointed by the President with the advice and consent of the Senate.
What authority does the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Technology have?
The Under Secretary has authority to make decisions regarding a range of matters pertaining to defense acquisitions. These include establishing guidance on program execution; developing performance metrics; evaluating progress in meeting cost, schedule, and performance targets; approving major system design changes; authorizing deviation from regulations; establishing acquisition milestones; awarding contracts; approving requests for reprogramming funds; negotiating settlements or revisions to contracts; enforcing applicable laws; preparing reports to Congress on acquisition issues; recommending personnel actions related to contracting activities or program budgeting matters.
How often does the Under Secretary need to report back to Congress on defense acquisitions?
The Under Secretary must report back to Congress at least every two years but may provide more frequent updates as necessary.
Does the Under Secretary coordinate with other agency heads?
Yes, the Under Secretary coordinates closely with other agency heads within the Department of Defense including those responsible for research & development, logistics & materiel readiness, testing & evaluation, personnel & readiness capabilities, investments & resources management among others. In addition they may coordinate as needed with other federal agencies outside DoD as appropriate for particular projects or initiatives.
Are there any areas in which the Under Secretary does NOT have authority?
Yes, while broad in scope there are certain areas where congressional mandates limit authority held by the UnderSecretary alone such as establishing program budgets or transferring funds between appropriations accounts without suitable notification to Congress.
Is there a formal review conducted by the Under Secretary at any point during their tenure?
Yes - annual reviews are required by law which assess overall program health including cost estimating accuracy, milestone compliance rates, technology maturity levels achieved versus planned targets associated with each major system development effort managed by DoD's largest Acquisition Category I organizations (ACAT 1s). The results from these assessment efforts shape future Budget Requests submitted by OSD offices when making cases before Congress regarding requested funding levels.
What type of feedback does this review provide?
This annual review provides both quantitative evidence supporting stated technical achievements as well qualitative considerations providing insight into how well program management teams executed against established plans leading up until that point in time when assessed. This information is then utilized at higher levels within DoD leadership circles when assessing whether investments remain valid based upon latest assessments or if modifications should be made moving forward.
How often is this review conducted?
According to existing federal law this review must take place each year prior submitting budget requests to Congress on behalf of related defense departments under purview of OSD AT&L.
What happens if programs fail this review?
If programs fail their required annual reviews they may either receive additional funding or personnel resources from OSD AT&L in order help them get back on track or have their approval status revoked requiring them restructure entire project plan before resubmitting revised concept documents towards consideration again by Office Acquisitions Programs Executive Officers (PEOs).
Final Words:
The Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Technology is among one the most important roles within the Department of Defense (DoD). This position serves as a vital link between Congress, industry partners, military members, constituents at home and abroad as well as other elements within the Federal government. The role provides invaluable assistance by monitoring compliance with laws pertaining to acquisition activities while promoting efficient use of resources during times when budget cuts have become necessary. The OUSDAT plays an essential role in supporting initiatives which help achieve national security objectives throughout various aspects federal government operations both domestically and internationally.