Chapter II. Science and Technology Integration With Army XXI
Army Science and Technology Master Plan (ASTMP 1997)

8. Managing Requirements Determination

The requirements development process is only as effective as the people who are involved with the program. Integrated concept teams representing all elements of the Army, appropriate joint and coalition forces, industry, and academia are the principal means to ensure the right people are involved. However, no organization can afford to have its personnel away from normal duties all the time. Managing the ICT process is just as important as getting the right people involved. (See Figure II-9.)

The ICT objectives must be clearly defined with a reasonable amount of time allocated to achieve them. Its approach should not be constrained in any way. Full use of the various electronic media is encouraged to include electronic mail, video teleconference, DIS, and reconfigureable simulators.

The importance of this multidisciplinary approach to requirements determination cannot be overstated. We must rid ourselves of overly bureaucratic procedures that stifle creativity and reduce responsiveness. Joined together in ICTs, the representatives of otherwise disparate organizations provide the Army an unparalleled means to "see" the future. (See Figure II-10.)