GUIDANCE

1.0 General

1.1 Purpose

This acquisition guideline describes the process, procedures, and responsibilities for conducting mission analysis (MA), for preparing and submitting a mission need statement (MNS) to the Joint Resources Council (JRC) for approval, and for developing periodic summary of mission analysis trends as a natural input to the strategic planning process. Mission Analysis provides the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) a forward-looking framework for identifying and assessing the criticality of valid mission needs covering all appropriation accounts.

1.2 Background

This acquisition guideline implements the principles established by the FAA Acquisition Management System (AMS) document dated April 1, 1996. In developing the FAA AMS, the framers of the document reengineered and streamlined the mission need analysis process of the past to create the forward-looking, broad mission analysis process of the future. Mission needs are normally identified as a result of a structured mission analysis process, though any FAA organizational element may be the originator of a mission need. The FAA Acquisition Management System document requires that every line of business (LOB) engage in a continuous process for establishing mission needs by conducting mission analysis, preparing mission need statements, and obtaining required approvals. It recommends that these line of business mission analysis activities be closely coordinated to ensure thorough and complementary analysis of agency mission needs.

1.3 Scope

This mission analysis guideline has been written as a reference document. Section 2.0 contains organizational responsibilities within the mission analysis process. Section 3.0 of this guideline covers the mission analysis process itself. Section 4.0 covers MNS development, review, and approval. Section 5.0 describes the relationship of the mission analysis process with other FAA planning and acquisition processes.

1.4 Applicability

These guidelines are intended to assist the lines of business implement the responsibilities for conducting Mission Analysis established in the AMS. The applicability of the specific processes and associated activities described herein are subject to the discretion of the line of business. It is understood that each line of business may tailor their own mission analysis process. These generic guidelines were arrived at based on input and representation from all lines of business. Based on that mutual effort, it is assumed that the guidelines will be followed where applicable and tailored when it is prudent to do so. In order to enhance the applicability of these guidelines periodic updates will occur as lessons learned can be documented and applied. Though specific applicability may be determined by the line of business, nothing stated in this document relieves any line of business from meeting the responsibilities for conducting Mission Analysis established in the AMS.