Cost and Program Analysis

The Office of Acquisition Management (OAM) establishes regulations, policies and guidance for the cost community. We are committed to providing robust support for ensuring financial accountability and fostering continuous improvement through education and strategic analysis.

Independent Cost Estimates

We conduct and approve independent cost estimates throughout the lifecycle of mission-critical programs. Our goal is to support milestone reviews by ensuring thorough and accurate financial projections and that reasonable estimates have been developed

Baselining / Program Evaluation Activities

We consolidate/monitor cost, schedule, and performance against established baselines for mission-critical and special interest programs. We oversee the preparation of programmatic documents and lead strategic portfolio reviews, helping to define and evaluate portfolios and acquisition decisions. We evaluate cost implications of programmatic options to help inform leadership decisions.

Training and Education

We assess and enhance the cost and program analysis capabilities within the Bureau, developing improved analytic skills and competencies. We educate the DOC workforce on cost policy and guidance, establishing the proper use of terminology and implementing the ‘Big A’ Conference Vision.

Tools / Resources

We identify priorities and implement cost research projects, oversee the collection and storage of cost-related data from past high-profile programs and projects, and support bureaus in building data-driven, defensible cost estimates, including recruiting certified cost estimators.