The changes in the aerospace and defense supply chain have placed tremendous pressure on small and mid size producers. The necessity to interpret and comply with literally hundreds of pages of specifications and thousands of design characteristics for a typical aerospace component stretches both human and technical resources. As a result, the likelihoods of misinterpreting design intent is greatly increased. The consequences of misinterpretation greatly impact the integrity of aerospace products, affecting quality, performance, and cost.

In recognition of these challenges, the Air Force Manufacturing Technology Division has initiated the Electronic Industry-wide Network for Characteristics & Specifications (e-LINCS) program. e-LINCS is a web-based service that leverages advanced information technologies to unlock the vital specification and design characteristic data required at every level of the supply chain. This removes ambiguity and enhances understanding. e-LINCS is making these key technologies readily accessible and affordable to the thousands of small and mid sized producers who comprise the backbone of the US aerospace industrial base.