What is the first step in the Material Acquisition Process?

The first step in the Material Acquisition Process is the Initial Capabilities Document (ICD). The ICD serves as the foundational document that identifies the need for a new capability. It outlines the gaps in current capabilities and establishes the initial framework for what is required to meet operational needs. By articulating these requirements early on, the ICD facilitates subsequent steps in the acquisition process, including further assessments and the development of comprehensive documentation that guides decision-making and resource allocation.

In the context of the acquisition framework, the other options, while essential components of the process, come after the ICD. The Capabilities Production Document (CPD) details how the solution will be produced and managed, the Analysis of Alternatives (AoA) involves evaluating various solutions to meet the identified needs, and the Capabilities Development Document (CDD) builds on the ICD by providing more definitive requirements for the system being developed. Thus, the ICD lays the groundwork necessary for these subsequent activities.