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DMSMS Tools & Management Aids

Within the DMSMS world today, there are many tools available to help manage the DMSMS issues that programs face in the real world. These tools and aids can be categorized and many tools and aids within the same category may have some similarities. Other systems are being developed but listed here to familiarize you with the name and intent of these systems. Some of these systems are government owned or provided systems, and others are commercial systems that require a subscription to use them. The primary purpose of this website tab is to make people aware of different tools and aids available to assist in the management of your program. The short description provided here is to provide you enough information to narrow your search and give you a direct connection to individual websites so you can find the best solution to your need. In many cases, the system you end up using may depend on a program's ability to pay for a commercial service, or it may be a simple matter of personal preference. Many times the same end can be achieved using different tools and aids as long as the tool or aid was intended for the purpose for which it was used.

The tools and aids below are categorized as Logistics Tools & Aids; Predictive Tools & Aids; Reliability Tools & Aids; and Service or Locally Developed Tools & Aids. A short narrative is listed with each category listed below. The primary purpose of this website is to familiarize you with some of the many tools & aids available. The choice of which system, tool or aid you use is dependent on your program needs and its ability to fund some of these tools.



Logistics Tools and Aids
The first category of tools addressed will be the logistics tools. There are a couple of tool types in this category: They are government-owned tools and subscription-based tools. While special user-developed tools are out there, they are specialized and generally localized, and some are service specific, so these won't be addressed here.

Logistics tools are generally used to:
  • Identify an item-of-supply or part.
  • Describe the requirements for a particular IOS.
  • Detail the number of assets on-hand, location of assets, asset quality problems, etc.
  • Other information.

  • Joint Engineering Data Management Information Control System (JEDMICS)
    JEDMICS is a drawing file system. The DOD has standardized around this format for the millions of drawings stored at military service and DLA activities. Stored on optical platters, all types of drawings are accessible through this common interface. The problem of standardizing the format was solved with JEDMICS. There are more than 60 repositories countrywide that are JEDMICS capable, however access to each one requires an application. It is recommended that you check with your local logistics or technical personnel to see which systems you need access to and whether they are available through your service, as a starting point. Access to JEDMICS is free and can be accessed by government and sponsored contractors.

    Logistics On-Line Access (LOLA)
    LOLA is a graphic user interface (GUI) that retrieves data from the Federal Logistics Information Service (FLIS) database, the heart of the federal supply system. This system is administered by the Defense Information Logistics Service (DLIS), with the database maintained at the Mega Center at Defense Supply Center, Columbus (DSCC). All other tools reporting FLIS data use this database to populate their tools. LOLA retrieves data that is only 4 hours old, making it the most current data available compared to other FLIS based tools. Government personnel and sponsored contractors can have free access.

    PC Logistics Information Network - PCLink
    PCLink is a tool administered by the Defense Automatic Addressing Systems Center (DAASC). If you could have access to only one government system, this would be the tool of choice. From here you have access to LOLA, Real time SAMMS and many of its critical search verbs like SNIR (National Inventory Record). You can also access the Air Force DO35 system, the ARMY LIDB system, the NAVY SNAPSHOT system, and the Defense Reutilization and Marketing Services (DRMS) system to name only a few of the accessible systems. Use of this tool can get you information about the supply posture of non-DLA-managed items. There are two versions of this tool. One is a PC-based, file transfer protocol (FTP) version and the other is a web-based version called WebLINK. Both systems have strengths and weaknesses; it's a personal preference as to which one to use. When you apply for one you receive access to both. This system is free to government personnel and sponsored contractors.

    PCNAlert
    PCNAlert is the premier provider of Component Obsolescence Management solutions for the electronic supply chain, supplying real-time component information such as End of Life Notices (EOLs), Product Change Notices (PCNs), RoHS Compliance Data and other critical component data. PCNAlert offers web-based applications. Your electronic component lists, (Active, passive, and electromechanical) are uploaded for daily monitoring for PCNs, PDNs or EOL notices via our AVLalert product. AVLalert monitors the master parts list for PCNs and EOL impacts, designated users are automatically notified of impacts on a daily basis. Impact data can also be integrated into your existing systems and databases through our data integration option. Small component lists or bills of material (BOMs) may be uploaded for self service results via PCNAlert’s BOMverifier tool, results are generated immediately and include PCNs, PDNs/EOLs, and RoHS information, results from BOMverifier are exportable. BOMverifier is a proactive tool for verifying BOM health, frequently used in new product design before engineering releases, or for build feasibility studies for dormant or revived legacy projects. For more information, please visit www.PCNAlert.com.

    DOD Emall
    DOD Emall is a Web-based system maintained by the DLA that retrieves supply data on DLA-managed items. DOD Emall has replaced the WebCATS system. The information from DOD Emall provides a snapshot of the logistics posture for a DLA-managed IOS. The Emall site also allows you to order the items online. Other features and BSM data elements will become available with continued refinements to the Emall system.

    E Portal (Planned)


    CatalogXpress ®
    Delivering the world's most comprehensive collection of manufacturer's catalogs, CatalogXpress contains over 300,000 catalogs from over 16,000 manufacturers. Researches can locate product and component information by keyword, brand name, part or model number, standard, National Stock Number (NSN), Mil Spec, and manufacturer name. Using CatalogXpress, engineers can view descriptions, data sheets and technical specifications as described by the manufacturer.

    Engineering Sciences Data Unit (ESDU)
    ESDU contains validated engineering design methods, empirical and theoretical data, equations, and worked examples presented in over 1,250 design guides with supporting software. ESDU is the result of more than 60 years experience of providing engineers with information, data and techniques for fundamental design and analysis on topics ranging from aerodynamics of leading-edge devices to principles for designing against metal fatigue. With ESDU, engineers have a robust resource to guide them through the design engineering process, which is critical to successful, proactive Diminishing Manufacturing Sources and Material Shortages (DMSMS) planning.

    Federal Logistics Information System (FED LOG)
    FED LOG is the logistics information system published by the Defense Logistics Information Service (DLIS). Cataloging information on 7 million plus stock numbers and 12 million plus part numbers. FED LOG is available in CD-ROM or DVD format. Updated monthly, FED LOG is ever changing to meet the needs of military and civilian personnel worldwide. Additional logistics information is available to include some drawings and user information. Training is also available on how to use the system and is recommended to make maximum use of this system. Use of this system is generally free to government personnel and sponsored contractors. Other contractors can get authorization to subscribe to FED LOG when access id required in direct support of some contracts.

    GIDEP Database

    GIDEP has been designated as the centralized database for the timely distribution of Diminishing Manufacturing Sources and Material Shortages (DMSMS) data, distributed through DMSMS Notices. In addition, GIDEP distributes Product Change Notices and Product Information Notices that are used to inform product users of changes in technical characteristics or parameters in items/materials. The intent of these notices is to provide Government Activities with advanced notice of product discontinuance or product changes in order to allow these activities maximum lead time to make decisions among using alternate source, redesigning affected components of a system, or making life-of-type buys.

    The DMSMS database is designed to support multiple types of users, including Systems Commands, Logistic Activities, In-service Engineering Activities, and support contractors. GIDEP electronically distributes via the GIDEP database these DMSMS, Product Change, and Product Information Notices, making the manufacturers' information and the governmen's responses immediately available to over 1,500 GIDEP Program participants. GIDEP users may retrieve Product Information Data (PID) by accessing the GIDEP database on the World Wide Web (WWW).

    GIDEP Operations Center P.O. Box 8000 Corona, CA 92878-8000

    (951) 898-3207
    (951) 898-3250 (FAX)

    Shared Data Warehouse (Planned)
    The DMS Shared Data Warehouse is being developed by the Division of Industrial Support Program (DLA) to enable DOD to manage parts obsolescence. The objective of the DMS Shared Data Warehouse is to minimize the impact of DMS on DOD weapons systems. The Shared Data Warehouse promotes a systematic, single methodology for processing notices of discontinuance and provides a central repository for DMS management.

    HAYSTACK (Subscription Required)
    A parts and logistics management system that provides access to information on over 100 million items in the U. S. Federal Supply Catalog, over 40 U. S. Army, Navy, Air Force related databases and commercial parts. This is one of the most popular subscription tools and probably one of the most versatile. Produced by IHS, this tool combines data from many databases into one easy-to-use shell. The only real drawback of this tool is the timeliness of the quarterly FLIS updates from DLIS. However, their comprehensive procurement histories database is updated monthly and many times has more current pricing data than the monthly updated Fedlog. In addition, because its framework allows for custom pulls of data based on "batches" of part numbers or NSNs, it provides a one-touch opportunity to gather large quantities of data from a variety of data fields and databases. This one stop location for parts research also includes a complete integration of military specifications and commercial standards, as well as a link to on-the-shelf availability data from Inventory Locator Service. All of this data is available for integration into your existing system via XML. When coupled with the real-time government tools that can be used to verify the information gathered, you are armed with a potent tool set to aid in researching your problem parts. Again, this system does require a subscription and more information can be obtained by clicking on the link above.

    Inventory Locator Services (ILS) (Subscription Required)
    ILS provides the Defense, Aviation, and Marine communities instant access to Commercial Off The Shelf (COTS) sources. For more than 25 years ILS has been the most active electronic marketplace in the world to buy and sell parts, equipment and services in these industries. ILS's services are used by over 15,000 subscribers in 78 countries including more than 70 Defense Agencies such as DLA depots, major OEMs, Air Force Logistics Commands, Navy Inventory Control Points and many FMS customers. Item managers, logisticians, parts researchers and planners are typical ILS users and have relied on ILS to help them support the war fighter by finding sources for mission critical items. Inventory Part Numbers are cross referenced to Government files, such as the FLIS and Procurement History, in order to help customers identify all possible sources for needed parts. ILS helps to streamline the procurement process for defense users by listing certified government suppliers, identifying the services of government MRO facilities, and offering an integrated RFQ system. A suite of market intelligence tools is also available from ILS to help make informed purchasing decisions or view trending analysis based on supply and demand data. above.

    Military Engineering Data Asset Locator System (MEDALS)
    Managed by the Defense Logistics Information Service (DLIS), the Military Engineering Data Asset Locator System (MEDALS) is an automated information system that serves as the central index of engineering data for the Department of Defense (DOD). DOD technical data repositories, which store, maintain, and distribute the engineering drawings, supply the MEDALS program with technical drawing indexing data and associated information. The MEDALS program is linked to the acquisition process of technical data and maintains indexing information throughout the documents life cycle. It is an interactive on-line system that indicates quickly and easily where engineering drawings or documents reside, links you to the WEB repositories, and provides you with the information and ability to order it fast...by phone, mail, FAX, E-mail, or electronic order requests. A batch input feature is also available that permits users to submit high volume inquiries for drawing locations directly on-line or through other multi-media (e.g. CD-ROM, floppy disk, or diskette). Access to the MEDALS indexing data does not imply or grant access to the technical data indexed.

    Parts Base (Subscription Required)
    PartsBase.com was started with one goal: streamlining the business processes of the Aviation Industry, using the Internet. PartsBase.com has built the world's largest and most comprehensive Online Aviation Marketplace by an aggressive business-to-business and print marketing campaign that allows members to leverage a 24/365 presence into a business tool that never closes, minimizes marketing, and information acquisition costs, while it produces economies that are magnitudes greater than those attainable through legacy business methods. Parts Base provides a web-based aviation parts locator service for the aviation, aerospace, turbine and defense industries.

    Precience (Subscription Required)
    Precience solutions deliver a comprehensive proactive component obsolescence lifecycle and supplier management suite. This solution empowers customers to get a tight handle on runaway cost associated with component and inventory obsolescence. Precience solution provides scalable, easy to deploy component, and supplier qualification tool. Precience Design for Supply Chain solution also bridges the gap between the design engineering, procurement, and manufacturing by delivering a real time information network, between these groups. We integrate the product design desktop tools with supply chain and manufacturing information using a real-time information distribution network that delivers data from existing corporate systems and third-party information service. This streamlined approach avoids potential production and supply chain disasters by providing relevant information at the stage where the component selection and manufacturing design decisions are made.

    Specs and Standards
    IHS' Specs and Standards solution provides quick access to standards, specifications and technical documentation required for meeting industry and government quality regulations. This comprehensive resource includes over 568,000 industry standards documents written by some 450 organizations. It also references 350,000 active and historical U.S. military and federal documents. IHS' Specs and Standards solution is fully integrated, combining old and new specifications for a system that has been modernized due to obsolescence. Users benefit from seamless access to the specifications and the parts to which they relate.

    Universal Parts Center ™
    IHS' Universal Parts Center (UPC) contains over 100 million commercial and government stocked parts and supplier data, part number searching andhttp://www.androidtechnologies.com/trademark/archives/2/html-trademark-symbol.php links for Request For Quote (RFQ) capabilities. UPC is the leading parts sourcing and procurement tool for government and commercial parts across industries. Keyword, part number or manufacturer searches can be filtered by any combination of seven categories including commercial, government, and Inventory Locator Services (ILS). With UPC, engineers can instantly see whether commercial suppliers have critically needed components and if so, immediately evaluate the condition of these items. The UPC is integrated with HAYSTACK, but can be accessed separately.

    USA Info (Subscription Required)
    USA Info is a relatively new tool that has many of the same capabilities as the HAYSTACK tool. This tool is produced by USA Information Systems, Inc., and also has some unique features as well. These include access to some government and industry technical data, an inventory locator service, and current part procurement information. It provides entry portals for DLA solicitation searches based on your custom profile as well as many other services. Like the previous tool, the information for part number and NSN associations retrieved from FLIS information is dated, and needs to be verified as accurate prior to use of the data. The other features are a little different. If you had both the USA Info tool and the HAYSTACK tool, you would have some redundant features but also some complimentary features.


    Predictive Tools & Aids
    A second category of available tools is the predictive tools. There are at least 5 primary software programs on the market and they are all subscription based. These tools are the ones into which you load your BOMs (or have it done by the tool provider) and they will determine the status of the parts on your BOM. They range in cost from relatively cheap to very expensive. You, the DMSMS program manager, should be careful to ensure that you know the pros and cons of each tool before you purchase a subscription for your program.

    Contrary to popular belief, these tools all basically do the same thing. The reports may be a little different, the data may be presented in a little different format, but the core evaluation is the same. While we will never know exactly what is contained in the "proprietary algorithms" of the tools, the required component status is based on the availability and status of the "base item". The "base item" may or may not meet your requirements, so, unless you are aware of this fact, you could draw bad conclusions from the part status.


    Supportability Management Assessment Report Tool (SMART) (Subscription Required)
    SMART is a turn-key web-based Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) Supply Chain software solution that takes DMSMS Management to a higher level by incorporating all of the key ingredients required for program Supportability and Obsolescence Management. With information, analyses and solutions, SMART is a “One Stop Shop” data portal that utilizes a SCORE factor methodology to analyze key functional areas across the supportability disciplines which include; Supply Support, Commercial-off-the-Shelf (COTS), Obsolescence, Readiness and End of Support factors. A proactive alert notification process within SMART displays the SCORE ranking and prioritization. SMART embeds industry content providing access to millions of parts and real time manufacturer availability data. Visibility of COTS supplier availability and aftermarket asset inventories provides vital information for obsolescence and supportability mitigation of DMSMS issues for virtually any electronic system design. SMART is also a Closed Loop Decision Support process providing Case Management along with Cost Avoidance analyses and metrics. Automated Return on investment (ROI) is built-in providing justification of budget and program expenditures. The SMART solution is a low cost and easy to use software application. The deployment model provides for unlimited users within the program license. As a web based supply chain collaborative application, SMART has tight security and control features, yet is user friendly and intuitive. Unique data modeling and reporting set SMART apart as a solution process versus just being another tool. SMART takes DMSMS to a higher level by implementing a full-scale solution process within a data centric design that empowers information and data outputs and can easily integrate with existing tools and data sources. For more information, please visit http://www.mysmart-rac.com

    QinetiQ's - Sustainment Technology Assessment Resource (Q-STAR) (Subscription Required)
    Q-STAR is a web-based tool that allows users to load unlimited BOMs and determine obsolescence vulnerability for components contained in those BOMs. The system provides discontinuance alerts, life cycle projections, life-of-type buy notices, potential substitute part listings and other information and reports critical to managing obsolescence issues. Like the other "predictive tools" this tool statuses the components based on the status of the "base item", so you must evaluate the offered replacements for acceptability for use in your system. Q-STAR was recently competitively selected as the first predictive tool for use in the DMSMS Center of Excellence (KSP). Although Q-STAR is a subscription service, a blanket subscription agreement through DLA allows free access through the DMSMS KSP website at the DMSMS predictive tool tab to all U.S. government employees with GIDEP userids. Additional commercial users and Foreign Military Sales customers are able to set up individual commercial subscriptions through direct contact/subscription with QTEC at www.QTEC.us at www.QTEC.us

    DKSP Component Commonality Server (DCCS) (Subscription Required)
    The DKSP CCS server is a standalone DMSMS system that can be used for Interoperability on common component problems enabling collaboration and solution sharing at the component level for all participants. Under secured conditions the QCCS server will link participants on common DMSMS problems at the component level. The QCCS system is accessible to all USG agencies and their suppliers and coalition friendly countries and their suppliers. No configuration type information or weapons system identification type information is allowed. The QCCS operates on Q-Star&trade software. Contact QTEC at www.QTEC.us

    Advanced Components Obsolescence Management (AVCOM) (Subscription Required)
    Advanced Component Obsolescence Management (AVCOM) is a web-based, proactive obsolescence and sustainment management tool that allows fully indentured configuration loading that meets OSS&E requirements for total BOMs. AVCOM allows the loading and obsolescence monitoring of all component types (electronics and non-electronics) including base part numbers, OEM PNs, SCDs, Hybrids, and other non-standard/custom devices. AVCOM’s comprehensive parts library, containing active, passive and non-electronic parts dating from 1933, automatically lists low-cost solutions and provides real-time, automated PCN/PDN notifications. Electronic parts residing in the database are marked with a RoHS compliance status. Through application interchanges and data alliances, AVCOM provides users direct and single log-in access to both PartMiner and ILS which enables real-time search & e-procurement from 5,000+ sources world-wide in efforts to source critical components. MTI's team of component engineers and specialists keep the database current with direct manufacturer inputs, continuous monitoring of manufacturer sites, direct manufacturer contacts, and on-going review of manufacturer literature. The Component Management team also provides a unique Component Resolution capability for hard to find components. AVCOM’s various obsolescence analysis options allow users to pinpoint obsolescence issues and prioritize actions: Health Analysis for current and projected timeframes; Impact Analysis that provides a full-path indenture display down to each occurrence of a specified part or assembly; Part Commonality Analysis that facilitates collaboration on solution sharing; Workbook Analysis to view obsolescence density versus assembly commonality within a selected system; Custom Query for ad hoc reports; and Logistics Sustainment Analysis Module (LSAM) that prioritizes obsolescence projects based on obsolescence, repair, inventory and demand data. AVCOM provides export features for all analyses including a BOM export function for D200F API uploading to enable more accurate maintenance budgeting. MTI's quality systems ensure that all the AVCOM data loading, component management and software processes are ISO 9001:2001 compliant. A CD version of AVCOM is available that allows client/server or stand-alone installation.

    CAPS Expert ™ (Subscription Required)
    CAPS Expert is the world's most comprehensive on-line resource for more than 18 million electronic components including semiconductors, passives, connectors and electromechanicals, and Mil Spec cylindrical connectors. In addition to its extensive content, CAPS Expert includes self-hosted datasheets and documentation, complete end-of-life (EOL) and Product Change Notices (PCNs), and multiple options for evaluating replacements.

    i2 TACTRAC (Subscription Required)
    TACTRAC was the first of the predictive tools on the market, and it is a behind-the-firewall client server software system. You place your BOM in the required format and load it into the tool. It is important that you ensure the OEM part numbers to base part number relationships are correct so that the parts on your list will status. This tool can handle indentured and non-indentured BOMs, and has a web based component look-up feature. Based on the status of the components, you can determine the relative health of your boards, boxes; determine system usage, part counts and other information. This tool provides information on potential substitute parts and availability predictions out to 8-years based on proprietary algorithms. The analysis data is exportable and has automatic alert email notifications. You load and revise the BOM in this tool as desired. Also available is TACTRAC COMET, a web-based-hosted BOM management tool.

    Obsolescence Analysis and Sustainment Integrated System (OASIS) (Subscription Required)
    OASIS is a web-based tool that allows users to easily load unlimited "indentured" or "flat file" BOMs, access real-time obsolescence status, perform critical analyses, receive automated discontinuance alerts and listings of solution parts. OASIS utilizes a user-friendly Excel template and "drag and drop" features to support the batch uploading of BOMs. OASIS allows the user to view and search the BOMS of other team members for commonality and sharing. OASIS allows users to "drag and drop" BOMs from team members or perform any analytical function on other team members’ BOMs as though the BOM were their own. This reduces the time and cost associated with building and maintaining BOMs. The commonality of parts, and their notes/solutions, is an automated feature of OASIS. Part notes/solutions are identified as being from the user, within a user's specific team or within the greater OASIS users' community. OASIS has access to a comprehensive parts library that contains active, passive and non-electronic parts dating from 1933. Electronic parts residing in the database are marked with a RoHS compliance status. OASIS offers users direct and single log-in access to both PartMiner and ILS through application interchanges and data alliances. With OASIS, users may search over 5,000 sources world-wide in efforts to source critical components. The database is kept current with direct manufacturer inputs, continuous monitoring of manufacturer sites, direct manufacturer contacts, and on-going review of manufacturer literature.

    Total Parts Plus (TPP) (Subscription Required)
    Total Parts Plus is a web-based tool that allows you to load either a "flat file" or "indentured" BOM and status the components on the BOM. Once you have an initial indication concerning part availability or status, you can perform life cycle projections, potential substitute parts evaluations, and other types of analysis. Like the other "predictive tools" this tool statuses the components based on the status of the "base item", so you must evaluate the offered replacements for acceptability for use in your system. It is simple, straight forward, and easy to use. With a worldwide customer base including telecommunications, consumer electronics, industrial equipment, medical electronics, aerospace, and automotive markets. Total Parts Plus provides information on electronic components, life-cycle analysis, alternate sourcing, and supply-chain management.


    Reliability Tools & Aids
    Many reliability tools have been and will continue to be internally developed by government agencies or a contractor, for a specific purpose, but there are also some subscription tools of note in the commercial market place. Once again, these are either subscription based or you purchase the software outright. These tools are important to help determine how long your assets will carry your program based on demand, rates, failure rates and many other factors. They will help you develop an Operational Impact Analysis (OIA).

    HAWKEYE (Software Purchase Required)
    HAWKEYE is a software tool for managing the configuration of a complex, highly indentured asset and assessing the impact of obsolete or difficult to procure, due to long lead time, components on its sustainability. The tool incorporates a user-friendly GUI for loading and editing the asset Bill of Materials (BOM). The user is given complete control over configuration of the asset including the addition, deletion, and assigning of alternate components and assemblies. The component obsolescence impact analysis model operates on component obsolescence as well as component and assembly inventory, use rate, and repair data. The model predicts future asset susceptibility to component obsolescence based on a consideration of component availability, inventory at all levels (on-hand stock and assembly cannibalization), and use rate of the obsolete component in assembly repair. This analysis provides the insight needed to insure that preventive action is taken at the right time and on the right component and assembly in order to maintain mission readiness. The tool incorporates a Synthetic Repair Generator algorithm for customers that do not currently capture component-level repair data and is compatible with commercially available component obsolescence databases as well as a variety of electronic Bill of Material formats. Input data to the tool may be imported in a variety of forms, including: Microsoft Access, Excel, SQL Server, and text files. Once imported into the tool, the user may modify any and all data in order to observe the predicted impact on asset supportability. The user can save the different preventive action scenarios to separate projects within the tool.

    ISOGRAPH (Software Purchase Required)
    Isograph Inc was founded in 1986 and has since produced a range of software tools for reliability, maintainability and safety analysis which are in use throughout the world. Isograph also provides training in the use of these tools. The software products are based on industry standard methods. The software products cover MTBF, MTTR prediction, FMECA, RBD, fault and event tree, Markov and Weibull analysis, RCM, availability simulation and maintenance & spare parts optimisation. The software products are easy to use and run in the familiar Microsoft Windows™ environment.

    RELEX (Software Purchase Required)
    Relex, an industry leader in reliability and maintainability since 1986, provides a range of software, consulting services, and training. Using universally accepted reliability models, the Relex software allows you to determine mean time between failures (MTBF), component reliability, and many other statistical analysis variations including Weibull analysis, fault tree analysis, and Markov modeling. Also available is a web-based tool for failure tracking, analysis, and corrective action. The software is available to support all types of users from single PCs to large-scale, integrated enterprise wide deployments and can be applied as desired for the supportability analysis of a component, board, box, or system.

    SUSTAIN (Custom Software Development)
    A SUSTAIN Database offers a program manager and engineers the opportunity to quantitatively evaluate the sustainment position of an asset through computer-assisted analysis of logistic, reliability, component obsolescence, and operating cost data. Developed under Georgia Tech Research Institute (GTRI) Research Contract, a SUSTAIN Database is tailored to reflect the unique business practices and data sources of each customer. Predictive models and databases have been developed for a variety of US Air Force customers and have involved a wide array of input data sources, including: REMIS Reliability, AFTOC O&S Cost, MTI AVCOM component obsolescence, QTEC Q-Star component obsolescence, D200 USAF assembly inventory, and DLA DORRA component inventory & use rate data. SUSTAIN Databases enable managers to identify trends in supportability, availability, reliability, and cost of an asset in order to isolate potential future problems and develop funding justifications to initiate programs that resolve them before they become a supportability crisis.


    Service or Locally Developed Tools and Aids
    These tools and AIDS have been developed in most cases to solve a specific problem or address a specific issue, but now that DMSMS is becoming a more universally accepted term and more people are accustomed to dealing with DMSMS issues, these tools are available and should be considered when looking for tools and AIDS to support your program. Access to some of these tools may have to be arranged through the service POC listed on the DMSMS webpage or through the POC listed on this page or the specified website listed here.

    AFRL Electronic Component Engineering Solutions
    The AFRL Solutions Website allows users to open cases for obsolete components requiring component level engineering solutions and sharing that information with the DMSMS community. Sponsored by the Integration Technology Branch of the Materials Manufacturing Directorate of Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL/MLMT), this tremendous resource is used to get the word out on component engineering solutions by providing a resource to share, and collaborate on component engineering solutions thereby reducing overlapping or redundant efforts and maximizing the MSD dollars. Instructions for how to gain access are on the website.

    CaTNP (Configuration and Technical Notification Program) (Planned)
    The Configuration and Technical Notification Program is a NAVICP/DLA initiative to push Navy configuration management information to the DLA Defense Supply Centers (DSCs). CaTNP uses a web-based program that establishes two-way communication between NAVICP and the DSCs. The objective of CaTNP is to provide the Defense Supply Centers the configuration and logistics information necessary to perform real-time material management of items that represent a significant impact to DLA inventory requirements. The DSCs will then use this information to reduce the procurement of items that are not the current configuration, and recapture these funds for use in procurement of the new/current items.

    Horizon Solution Suite (Secure Website)
    Horizon Solution Suite was developed by Naval Surface Warfare Center (NSWC) Crane Division, Crane, IN as an enhancement to its sustainment engineering services. It is used in support of multiple program offices within NAVSEA, NAVAIR, SPAWAR, Marine Corps and Air Force for analysis on numerous Systems and Variants at various levels (Platform, System, Configuration (Variant), SubSystem, Unit, LRU (Lowest Replaceable Unit), Mil-Spec piece part). It can be used to monitor the status of parts (both Commercial Off The Shelf (COTS) and Mil-Spec), project system availability, assist with sustainment approaches, project cost of solution alternatives, etc. Horizon Solution Suite contains several modules, including an activity-based technology refresh cost model which can be used to produce POM inputs. Program representatives (with a valid PKI Certificate) are granted secure access to program-specific data and health indicators for both COTS and Mil-Spec products.

    Obsolescence Management Information System (OMIS)
    This system has been developed and is used by the Navy Underwater Warfare Center (NUWC) at Keyport, WA. It is a program designed to assist with on-going efforts to sustain specific hulls or aircraft or systems. OMIS monitors configuration by hull or type and provides projections for how long a system remains supportable, what the limiting factor will be, and can update supportability projections when a problem part is resolved or thought to be resolved to help determine the most prudent action to take on a case-by-case basis. More information is available by contacting OMIS at DMSMS@kpt.nuwc.navy.mil. An overview presentation is available to view at www.dmsms.org on the technical library/technical information tab in briefings and presentations.

    Sunset Supply Base (SSB): Naval Surface Warfare Center, Corona, CA (Code QA 24)
    This is a DoN recognized DMSMS Bill of Materials (BOM) Tool/Services. The mission of Sunset Supply Base (SSB) is to provide affordable long-term COTS support for the Warfighter. SSB enhances DOD supportability, availablility, and repairability. SSB has a long term relationship with commercial suppliers. Can enhance continued production of COTS item based on need. Uses technology insertion. Reduces total owership cost. Provides earliest visibility into COTS obsolescence.