Proto-duction (Protoduction)
Rapid "Proto-duction" delivers expedited Warfighter capabilities while rapidly maturing technology that results in applied technology solutions delivered in the shortest acquisition lead times. Rapid “Proto-duction” is an ability to effectively transition technology, concepts and ideas through a concurrent systems engineering, manufacturing & integration process that results in rapid test article to unit fielding; all while yielding a new system/component with tactical application to meet warfighting deficiencies. Rapid proto-duction expertise could effectively replace the term “streamlined acquisition”. The key to future weapons systems platform Rapid Proto-duction support lies with:
1. Building a team that consists of the necessary Government agencies partnered with industry participants that are jointly focused on building the best product for the warfighter,
2. Developing a strategic program execution plan that implements controlled risk objectives based on concurrent integration and concurrent program events, and
3. Reducing risk with design, fabrication, and installation based on a wealth of rapid prototyping experience and initiatives, combined testing, Government Program Manager acceptance of additional costs for design improvements and redesign issues, bold production decision points based on comprehensive long lead schedules, trade off analysis during all points in the program and concurrent production efforts.
The combat effect of Rapid Proto-duction is dramatic. The "Rapid Proto-duction" prototype development process, integrated with production; supports combat units in the field by providing the ability to move military hardware from unit-level need to in-field reality within days, weeks and months; not years.