An Initial Evaluation of the VISION Assessment System

This report documents the demonstration of a prototype decision support system for logisticians called the VISION Assessment System, or VAS. The system aims at helping logistics planners evaluate and improve equipment sustainability. To demonstrate the prototype, we developed a scenario involving M1 tanks similar to one that occurred during the buildup phase of Operation Desert Shield. In addition to the standard support concept, we evaluated three other strategies designed to improve tank availability: expedited requisitions, forward-deployed depot repair, and asset prioritization. The evaluation indicated that under the standard support concept the number of operational tanks would decline to unacceptably low levels and that each enhancement strategy improved things, albeit not always to the extent anticipated. Beyond demonstrating that the prototype could address logistical questions, the project illuminated some data and usability issues. A fair amount of the data needed by VAS resides in Army standard systems, but they are not always accessible. Other elements do not exist. Also, although VAS functions, it would require additional work to make it a helpful tool at the everyday working level.