The Army Should Evaluate Effectiveness of the Direct Support System and Make Improvements

An evaluation was made of the effectiveness of the Army's direct supply support system (DSS) in comparison to the Army's standard supply system which relies on depots at installations as the primary sources of supply. Under DSS, peacetime requirements of Army units are provided directly from designated depots in the United States, with potential for greater efficiency and economy. Effective use of the system requires depots near ports. Findings: The system is not working as intended. It is not meeting the goal of filling 90% of requisitions from depots near departure points. Conclusions: A cost benefit study is needed and improvements are necessary. Recommendations: More supplies should be positioned near departure points. Levels of safety stocks in Europe can be reduced. Changes are needed in distribution procedures of the Defense Supply Agency and the General Services Administration to tie in with DSS.