Support in 1998 was viewed as fragmented and high-cost. The following enhancements were identified:
• manage risk, as far as is possible, within the private sector;
• decrease stockholdings by introducing best practice supply chain management techniques;
• rationalise and centralise storage and distribution with tasks outsourced wherever possible;
• fully consolidate the supplier base for the purchase of routine items, with less public sector involvement and fully implemented tri-Service rationalisation; and
• develop a consolidated IT strategy that delivers the required management information necessary to drive the implementation of best practice across all three Services.
It should be noted that these were conceived in the context of a distinct procurement organisation and separate support and logistics entities, but are nonetheless, still broadly relevant post-formation of DE&S.
At a high level, it has taken some time to make progress on these initiatives and there is much still to be done, not least in developing a consolidated IT strategy which can deliver reliable information around the business to assist in further improvement. Further comments on support are contained in Chapter 7.