Defense Business System Determination and Implementation Guidance

The U.S. Army has issued updated guidance for determining, classifying, and managing Defense Business Systems (DBS) to improve cost efficiency, operational performance, and compliance with federal law. The directive defines what qualifies as a DBS versus other systems, outlines certification thresholds (\$25M+ for Army policy, above the \$50M federal threshold), and distinguishes DBS from Defense Business Applications (DB Apps), Business Mission Area IT, and Enterprise Information Environment systems. It also formalizes governance processes—including authoritative data designation, portfolio registration, and acquisition requirements—ensuring systems align with the Defense Business Enterprise Architecture and support mission readiness.