What is an Integrated Product Team (IPT)?

An Integrated Product Team (IPT) is fundamentally a multi-disciplinary team focused on acquisition processes. Its primary objective is to bring together individuals from various functional areas to collaboratively develop and deliver products or services more efficiently and effectively. This integrated approach allows for diverse expertise to contribute to decision-making, enhancing communication among team members, and ensuring that all aspects of a product's lifecycle—from definition and development to sustainment—are considered.

The nature of an IPT empowers the team to leverage the strengths of different disciplines, such as engineering, logistics, contracting, and user experience, to address complex challenges encountered in the acquisition process. This collaborative effort is aligned with best practices in program management and acquisition, ultimately leading to improved outcomes and timely delivery of capabilities to the warfighter.

Understanding the role of an IPT is essential in the context of Army acquisition, as it underscores the importance of teamwork and integrated planning in achieving mission objectives.