`Just enough´ sparing under CLS [Contractor Logistics Support]

It is noted that, with current DoD emphasis on total quality management (TQM), the supply support challenge to be met might be given the label `just enough´: not too many spares and not too few but just enough to meet the need. The author describes a software package which was developed to meet the `just enough´ challenge for the training system ILSMs (Integrated Logistics Support Managers). The package, known as Computer Aided Spares Evaluation and Reporting (CASPER), was meant to be used by the ILSM during training system acquisition using an IBM PC compatible hardware system running under MS DOS. It has been made available for contractor use as well during conduct of their design/LSA (logistics support analysis) process. CASPER requires only seven essential producer-furnished data elements and embodies interactive user-friendly formats for data entry and report generation. It operates on the principle of displaying tradeoffs among selected hardware confidence levels and associated spares package costs. Input steps and output reports available to the analyst are illustrated