Date of Award

9-2025

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science

Department

Department of Operational Sciences

First Advisor

Ian M. Slaznik, PhD

Abstract

As the U.S. Air Force confronts growing complexity in system acquisition, the implementation of digital models in system design and logistics process management allows the incorporation of digital tools and the possibility for automation of portions of logistics processes. This thesis investigates where these technologies can be most effectively integrated within the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center logistics enterprise (AFLCMC). Using a three round Delphi study, AFLCMC logistics subject matter expert (SME) opinions were solicited from program-level senior logisticians, program managers to identify high-need areas, key success factors, and potential barriers to adoption. Quantitative consensus from Likert-scale and ordinal data was measured using Kendall’s W and Fleiss’ Kappa, while qualitative inputs were analyzed via QDA thematic coding to identify key themes. Results demonstrated overall weak agreement (W< 0.3) between polled SMEs indicating diverging opinions on which logistics processes should be targeted for transformation to model-based formats, positioning for automation, and which criteria should be used to select those processes. Key processes that were identified to have a higher-than-average implementation potential included Logistics Health Assessments (LHA), Life Cycle Sustainment Plans (LCSP), and Support Business Case Analyses (BCA). Overall, these findings reflect a broad recognition of digital transformation and automation potential among AFLCMC SMEs, despite the varying perspectives on process selection and  process selection criteria.

AFIT Designator

AFIT-ENS-MS-25-S-001

Comments

An embargo was observed for posting this dissertation on AFIT Scholar.
Approved for Public Release, Distribution A: Distribution Unlimited. PA Case Number 88ABW-2025-0757

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