The United States European Command needed to upgrade its technology to streamline processes and increase productivity. It required replacing 80% of its hardware, migrating over 500 users to a new operating system, and transitioning to a new worldwide network without disrupting communications. An action plan was developed to evaluate options, test functionality, purchase equipment, and provide training. Experts were consulted and implementation strategies were presented. The results were successful replacements of equipment, a new theater defense messaging system, and increased collaboration to develop a real-time picture of battle-space operations.

1. Leadership Case Study
Programmed Technology Upgrades for Increased Productivity
Situation:
The United States European Command intelligence community needed to streamline its technology processes. One
area required a comprehensive replacement of 80 percent of its hardware with the capability of migrating over 500
users in 83 countries from a UNIX to a hybrid UNIX/Windows NT operating system environment. Another project
involved the replacement of the government's antiquated worldwide network without cutting off communications
during the two-year transition period. There was also a need for a system providing military commanders at all
levels, from the commander on the ground, through the generals and to the President of the United States, a real-
time picture of the battle-space in a conflict scenario. While the United States Central Command was ahead of all
others, the United States European Command was lagging further behind in its implementation.
Action Plan:
• Evaluated hybrid options and provided necessary equipment to researchers. Chaired monthly video
teleconferences, traveled to test site, and provided direction to five separate geographic locations.
• Validated a functional baseline and conducted configuration management and security systems testing for
full integration into the network. Tested the operating system and application functionality across all
platforms.
• Developed implementation timeline and programmed equipment orders. Purchased equipment and
scheduled required systems administrator and user training.
• Designed a viable messaging alternative to stop execution of an unknown national plan. Ensured that
intelligence community message traffic proceeded uninterrupted throughout the transition.
• Identified manpower and equipment requirements, projected total cost, and presented implementation
strategy; the plan was lauded by the national community and used as a model for other theaters of operation
worldwide.
• Collaborated with counterparts from two directorates, subordinate elements, and representatives from the
Pentagon and U.S. Army to evaluate the project funding programmed for the next several years.
• Gathered experts and visited the Combined Air Operations Center to observe the monitoring of an actual
battle-space scenario in the Balkans. Defined application and networking problems and planned Theater
strategy.
• Hosted the March 2000 conference that drew nearly every key player from various Theater Commands,
with the Pentagon participating in the project. Addressed global concerns in a single forum.
Results:
Planned detailed network transitions enabling subordinate organizations to accurately budget for programmed
hardware and software upgrades. Successfully replaced over 500 costly UNIX workstations and achieved parallel
results in subordinate commands. Coordinated interaction of executive team members and produced the theater
defense messaging system plan that became the standard worldwide, permitting users to send organizational
messages from a familiar environment via a single desktop platform, significantly reducing the time required to draft
and transmit formal messages. Reenergized efforts to develop a real-time picture of the battle-space by integrating
operations, intelligence, and computer staff directorates. Involved all subordinate commands within the United
States European Command Theater of operations and developed a connection with the national community.