A tool for all trades

Volume 48, No. 22, November 30, 2006

FULL EFFECT: AFCERT (database pictured inset) plays a significant role in Air Force capability. Photo by FLTLT Phoebe Keynes

By Phil Dalby

HOW does Air Force measure its capability performance?

Everything we do in Air Force, regardless of what the job is, contributes to Air Force capability.

The Air Force Capability Evaluation Reporting Tool (AFCERT) is the Air Force’s primary tool for capability reporting, and plays a significant and key role in the Air Force Capability Management System.

While members working in the capability management environment in a FEG or other headquarters use AFCERT regularly, many members may not have heard of it.

AFCERT is a database containing a number of ‘datasets’, one for each FEG, HQAC and AFHQ. There is also an Air Force dataset, which is a composite of all of the other datasets designed to present a summarised, corporate view of Air Force capability.

Each dataset captures information about the organisation’s capability, such as its organisational structure, personnel, assets, spares and training. The information is obtained from a variety of sources, including from people like you. Then, by using a combination of techniques and interviews with personnel at the unit, squadron, wing and FEG levels, a capability picture is developed about the organisation. This capability picture is assessed and presented in terms of green, amber or red ‘traffic lights’, with amber and red identifying degrees of deficiencies in capability.

The use of the traffic lights system works very well as it provides managers with an instant visual indication of capability performance, while information can be quickly and easily assimilated.

AFCERT also allows the inclusion of other information, such as the details of the person who provided the assessment and notes and guidelines to provide depth and meaning to the assessment.

What does AFCERT have to do with you? You each contribute to Air Force capability because of your employment.

Based on your information, AFCERT may report the impact of out-of-date Defence Instructions or AAPs that affect aircraft maintenance, OH&S aspects that directly affect operations or support, or the state of the facilities that impinge on aircraft maintenance.

Think about your work and, in particular, about aspects that may have a detrimental effect on capability and discuss them with your chain of command.

For more information on the Air Force Capability Management System, visit DI(AF) Admin 2-3 Capability Management in the RAAF.

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