Initial operating capability
Encyclopedia
Initial operating capability or Initial operational capability (IOC) is the state achieved when a capability
is available in its minimum usefully deployable form. The term is often used in government
or military
procurement
.
The date at which IOC is achieved often defines the in-service date (ISD) for an associated system
. Declaration of an initial operating capability may imply that the capability will be developed in the future, for example by modifications or adjustments to improve the system's performance, deployment of greater numbers of systems (perhaps of different types), or testing and training that permit wider application of the capability. Once the capability is fully developed, Full operational capability may be declared.
For example, the capability may be fielded to a limited number of users with plans to roll out to all users incrementally over a period of time (possibly incorporating changes along the way). The point at which the first users begin using the capability is IOC, with FOC achieved when all intended users (by agreement between the developer and the user) have the capability. This does not preclude additional users from obtaining the capability after FOC.
Capability management
Capability management is a high-level integrative management function, with particular application in the context of defence.- Overview :Capability management aims to balance economy in meeting current operational requirements, with the sustainable use of current capabilities, and the development...
is available in its minimum usefully deployable form. The term is often used in government
Government procurement
Government procurement, also called public tendering or public procurement, is the procurement of goods and services on behalf of a public authority, such as a government agency...
or military
Military
A military is an organization authorized by its greater society to use lethal force, usually including use of weapons, in defending its country by combating actual or perceived threats. The military may have additional functions of use to its greater society, such as advancing a political agenda e.g...
procurement
Procurement
Procurement is the acquisition of goods or services. It is favourable that the goods/services are appropriate and that they are procured at the best possible cost to meet the needs of the purchaser in terms of quality and quantity, time, and location...
.
The date at which IOC is achieved often defines the in-service date (ISD) for an associated system
System
System is a set of interacting or interdependent components forming an integrated whole....
. Declaration of an initial operating capability may imply that the capability will be developed in the future, for example by modifications or adjustments to improve the system's performance, deployment of greater numbers of systems (perhaps of different types), or testing and training that permit wider application of the capability. Once the capability is fully developed, Full operational capability may be declared.
For example, the capability may be fielded to a limited number of users with plans to roll out to all users incrementally over a period of time (possibly incorporating changes along the way). The point at which the first users begin using the capability is IOC, with FOC achieved when all intended users (by agreement between the developer and the user) have the capability. This does not preclude additional users from obtaining the capability after FOC.