Casey Eaton , Shivani Patel , K. Loveday Glandon , Kristin Weger , Bryan Mesmer , Robert Moreland
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引用次数: 0
Abstract
This research examines perceptions of failure at the US National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) and NASA's “faster, better, cheaper” movement of the 1990s, identifying how subsequent perceptions, policies, and practices reflect and react to this former ideology in regards to perceptions of failure. Thirty-one NASA participants were surveyed regarding their definitions of failure and perceptions of causes of failure. Regarding failure, participants believed optimistic schedule and budget planning leads to failures and also believed that NASA was neutral on prioritizing prevention of budget overruns and schedule delays. Participants often defined and perceived failures in three areas of schedule, performance, and cost objectives, which are similar to the terms “faster, better, cheaper.” Associated NASA documentation, including strategic plans, is investigated, identifying that language regarding failure and success at NASA often involves these three areas. The examination of NASA documentation suggests potential evolution in policy, subsequent to the faster, better, cheaper era. Potential impacts in NASA policy and practice resulting from the FBC ideology are introduced: an absence and return to language of risk acceptance, a continued emphasis on science mission funding, and a gradual reduction in NASA civil servant workforce. The findings of this research provide insight into the operationalization of the three areas emphasized in the faster, better, cheaper ideology, their use in NASA documentation, and acknowledgment by NASA participants.
期刊介绍:
Space Policy is an international, interdisciplinary journal which draws on the fields of international relations, economics, history, aerospace studies, security studies, development studies, political science and ethics to provide discussion and analysis of space activities in their political, economic, industrial, legal, cultural and social contexts. Alongside full-length papers, which are subject to a double-blind peer review system, the journal publishes opinion pieces, case studies and short reports and, in so doing, it aims to provide a forum for the exchange of ideas and opinions and a means by which authors can alert policy makers and international organizations to their views. Space Policy is also a journal of record, reproducing, in whole or part, official documents such as treaties, space agency plans or government reports relevant to the space community. Views expressed in the journal are not necessarily those of the editors or members of the editorial board.