In forming the Product Support Management IPT, which participants should be included?

• A. Government and private-sector subject matter experts, industry, and Warfighter representatives
• B. Only the contracting officer
• C. Only the program manager and the engineer
• D. Warfighter representatives only

Answer: (A)

Forming a Product Support Management IPT relies on bringing together a cross-functional mix of stakeholders who influence or are affected by how a product is supported throughout its life cycle. Government and private-sector subject matter experts provide the technical depth and policy insight needed to shape feasible support concepts. Industry partners bring practical experience in design-for-sustainment, manufacturing, logistics, and lifecycle cost considerations. Warfighter representatives offer direct feedback on field conditions, operational needs, and maintenance challenges, ensuring the support plan aligns with real-world use. This blend ensures the strategy covers maintainability, spares, training, facilities, and readiness in a way that balances technical feasibility, procurement realities, and user needs. Relying on a single role misses essential perspectives and can lead to gaps in sustainment planning.