Eliminating Capability Gaps In Wide Area Workflow (WAWF) During Contingency Operations

This paper examines the online Wide Area Workflow-Receipt Acceptance WAWF-RA application used across DoD contracting agencies. It explains what WAWF does and its potential benefits to contingency contracting officers. The application works best when certain environmental conditions are met, like adequate IT infrastructure and vendors with a high degree of electronic-commerce e-commerce capabilities. Problems arise with using WAWF during emergencies and contingency operations because many times, IT infrastructure is scare and the country has inadequate e-commerce conditions. This research paper provides recommendations on bridging the capability gaps in the WAWF system so that it can be utilized to the maximum extent possible in any country under any conditions. The Department of Defense DoD developed online application to provide defense contractors and authorized government personnel the capability to produce and process contract documents such as receiving reports, and invoices over the World-Wide Web. The unique needs of the DoD, particularly regarding operations overseas and in support the Global War on Terror and other contingency operations brought several system shortfalls to light. Contract administration transitioned from traditional paper-based processes to WAWF during its beginnings. It is now mandated for use by all DoD contracting agencies.