Site problems Materiel Solutions Analysis (MSA) Phase The purpose of this phase is to assess potential materiel solutions and to satisfy the phase-specific entrance criteria for the next program milestone designated by the Milestone Decision Authority (MDA). Entrance Criteria Entrance into this phase depends upon an approved Initial Capabilities Document (ICD) resulting from the analysis of current mission performance and an analysis of potential concepts across the DoD Components. ICD Purpose: Documents the requirements for a materiel or non-materiel (or combination) approach to satisfy a capability gap. Outcome: A recommendation on the next course of action (materiel or non- materiel) or direction to accept risk and take no further action. Systems Engineering Role The Materiel Solution Analysis Phase begins with the Materiel Development Decision (MDD) review. The MDD review is the formal entry point into the acquisition process and shall be mandatory for all programs. Table 3 in Enclosure 4 identifies all regulatory requirements for the MDD review. Systems engineering role: 1. Engineering considerations should be a component of the Analysis of Alternatives (AoA) guidance and be addressed in the study plan. The program office should provide input to the AoA and observe the AoA progress.    2. The AoA is conducted independently and forms the basis for selecting the recommended approach         for materiel solution(s). The ICD and the AoA study guide the AoA and MSA Phase activity. The AoA focuses on the identification and AoA measures of effectiveness, cost, schedule, Concept of Operation (CONOPS), and overall risk. The MSA Phase ends when the AoA has been completed, materiel solution options for the capability need identified in the approved ICD have been recommended by the lead DoD Component conducting the AoA, and the phase-specific entrance criteria for the initial review milestone has been satisfied. At the close of the AoA, the program office takes ownership of the approach and conducts additional engineering analysis to support the development of the Technology Development Strategy (TDS), the Test and Evaluation Strategy (TES) and the Systems Engineering Plan (SEP).