Article: Agile framework for minimum viable capabilities in traditionally linear engineering acquisition cultures Journal: International Journal of Agile Systems and Management (IJASM) 2026 Vol.19 No.6 pp.1 - 26 Abstract: Capability acquisitions based on agile methodologies are becoming attractive due to the inherent benefits of the agile philosophies to handle complicated and complex developmental cycles when there are high and growing proportions of software functionality involved. However, in major platform capabilities, there remains significant cultural and procedural attachment to the classic waterfall approach with limited iteration and early experimentation for risk discovery and reward. An acquisition framework was conceptually developed to mature technological solutions from a model to a platform-level capability based on the concepts of minimum viable product. Using workshops with acquisition experts, the framework was improved, refining definitions of key concepts, using digital engineering to structure developmental modelling and simulation, and providing appropriate governance throughout the framework process. A retrospective acquisition is used to illustrate and verify the framework and to encourage acquisition agencies to trial it. Further research is needed to validate the framework across a portfolio of representative acquisitions. Inderscience Publishers - linking academia, business and industry through research

Title: Agile framework for minimum viable capabilities in traditionally linear engineering acquisition cultures

Authors: Boris Kazakevich; Keith F. Joiner

Addresses: Capability Systems Centre, University of New South Wales, Canberra, ACT, Australia ' Capability Systems Centre, University of New South Wales, Canberra, ACT, Australia

Abstract: Capability acquisitions based on agile methodologies are becoming attractive due to the inherent benefits of the agile philosophies to handle complicated and complex developmental cycles when there are high and growing proportions of software functionality involved. However, in major platform capabilities, there remains significant cultural and procedural attachment to the classic waterfall approach with limited iteration and early experimentation for risk discovery and reward. An acquisition framework was conceptually developed to mature technological solutions from a model to a platform-level capability based on the concepts of minimum viable product. Using workshops with acquisition experts, the framework was improved, refining definitions of key concepts, using digital engineering to structure developmental modelling and simulation, and providing appropriate governance throughout the framework process. A retrospective acquisition is used to illustrate and verify the framework and to encourage acquisition agencies to trial it. Further research is needed to validate the framework across a portfolio of representative acquisitions.

Keywords: agile techniques; capabilities; minimum viable product; MVP; minimum viable capability; acquisition; digital engineering; governance; modelling and simulation; M&S.

DOI: 10.1504/IJASM.2026.155615

International Journal of Agile Systems and Management, 2026 Vol.19 No.6, pp.1 - 26

Received: 05 Jun 2024
Accepted: 01 Sep 2025
Published online: 07 Aug 2026 *

Title: Agile framework for minimum viable capabilities in traditionally linear engineering acquisition cultures

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