A management case study: the implementation of the Rapid Acquisition of Manufactured Parts (RAMP) program

• Main Author: Peterson, Marlene J.
• Other Authors: Euske, Kenneth J.
• Language: en_US
• Published: Monterey, California. Naval Postgraduate School 2014
• Online Access: http://hdl.handle.net/10945/39829

Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited. === This thesis is a management case study which describes the implementation of the Navy's Rapid Acquisition of Manufactured Parts (RAMP) program. The RAMP program was implemented in 1989 by the Naval Supply Systems Command (NAVSUP) to address the problems in procurement of spare parts for the Navy's weapon systems. RAMP technology proposed the use of flexible manufacturing systems and computer integrated manufacturing (CIM) capability to develop self-contained computerized manufacturing cells used to produce small machined parts and printed wire assemblies. The goal of RAMP was to develop and use computerized parts specifications to reduce lead time and cost for manufactured spare parts. This management case study concentrates on the examination of how new technology is implemented into current established organizations. The main focus is on the relationships between the navy commands involved in the implementation: the Navy RAMP sites and the Inventory Control Points (Aviation Support Office and Ships Pans Control Center). The case includes the background and a description of the program, strategic planning, key players, identification of parts, establishment of technical data, cost and competition issues, and the steps taken to organize and implement RAW technology. Teaching notes are included which identify the important issues of the case including strategic planning, customer needs, organizational policy, bid procedures and the communication process.