Abstract

The procurement of precision optics in a high rate production, DOD, environment requires constant communication. This communication must involve the buyer, supplier and engineering personnel, and is of great importance from the point of initial design release through the completion of the production effort.

The education/training of the individual buyer can become critical in attempts to interface between the engineer and the supplier. The ability of the buyer to have understanding of basic optical engineering and contractual knowledge can reduce time and cost consuming efforts as related to problem solving, incorporation of changes and impact on production schedules.

The buyer must be able to transmit basic contractual requirements. to his own engineering staff. These involve many requirements not normally considered by engineering, such as, socio-economic requirements, normal terms and conditions established by DOD and the buyer's company, material availability and cost considerations.

© 1980 Optical Society of America