News
March
- OMB Explores Open Source for IT Dashboard — March 31, 2011
Following criticisms about inaccurate cost ratings and scheduling information on a White House website, the Office of Management and Budget is turning to software developers for help.
- Carter: DoD Needs to Improve ‘Fast Lane’ Contingency Contracting — March 29, 2011
The Defense Department’s top acquisition chief testified before the Commission on Wartime Contracting yesterday, saying the Pentagon needs to create a “fast lane” for contingency acquisitions — the rapid procuring of weapons during wartime.
- Share-In-Savings Contracting Coming Back? — March 29, 2011
The basic idea of share-in-savings contracting is that the government pays a contractor fully, or partly, in the form of giving the contractor a share of the savings the contracted effort generates.
- Upcoming Changes to the Contracting Curriculum in Fiscal Year 2012 — March 25, 2011
The Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition, Technology, and Logistics memorandum of September 14, 2010, entitled "Better Buying Power: Guidance for Obtaining Greater Efficiency and Productivity in Defense Spending" coupled with the recent competency assessment for the contracting community, demands strategic contracting course curriculum revision and restructure at the Defense Acquisition University (DAU).
- Pentagon Orders a Stop to Engine’s Construction — March 24, 2011
The Pentagon ordered General Electric and Rolls-Royce on Thursday to stop building an alternate engine for the F-35 fighter plane, but the companies said they would spend millions of dollars of their own money to keep the project alive.
- Davis-Bacon Act: Methodological Changes Needed to Improve Wage Survey — March 22, 2011
Procedures for determining Davis-Bacon prevailing wage rates, which must be paid to workers on certain federally funded construction projects, and their vulnerability to the use of inaccurate data have long been an issue for Congress, employers, and workers.
- Libya Operation Causing Headaches for U.S. Contractors, Grantees — March 22, 2011
As U.S. and coalition forces continue to pound Libyan leader Moammar Gadhafi defense systems from the air and sea, U.S. contractors and grantees operating in the embattled country have ceased their operations as they wait for the violence to ease, according to several interviewed by Government Executive.
- Wartime Contracting Hearing 3/28 on DoD Cost-Savings Drive — March 22, 2011
A March 28 hearing of the Commission on Wartime Contracting in Iraq and Afghanistan will check on Pentagon progress toward saving money on federal contracting for contingencies such as the U.S. involvement in Afghanistan.
- Unions, Contractors Decry Lack of Shutdown Info — March 21, 2011
Even as Congress flirts with shutting down government every two or three weeks, federal employees and contractors are complaining they are being kept in the dark on how they would be affected if a shutdown happens.
- Defense Acquisition University to Host Industry Day to Discuss Better Buying Power Initiatives — March 18, 2011
Mrs. Katrina McFarland, President, Defense Acquisition University (DAU), will host a forum to discuss implementation of Better Buying Power: Guidance for Obtaining Greater Efficiency and Productivity in Defense Spending, outlined in the Dr.Ashton B. Carter, Undersecretary of Defense, Acquisition, Technology & Logistics, 14 September 2010 memorandum to acquisition professionals.
- Diversity Panel Wants Military to Look Like U.S. — March 17, 2011
Just as the U.S. military is indoctrinating troops to accept open gays in their ranks, a federal commission is pressing the Pentagon to make the force more diverse by, among other ideas, opening infantry and armor units to women.
- Senate Approves Stopgap Funding — March 17, 2011
The Senate on Thursday approved legislation to fund the government for three additional weeks, amid bipartisan hopes that it would be the last short-term spending bill approved by Congress for the current fiscal year.
- DHS Faces Challenges in IT Hiring Process — March 16, 2011
The Homeland Security Department needs hundreds of information technology workers — especially in the cybersecurity arena — but it faces considerable obstacles in doing so.
- Procurement Oversight: A Case of Friendly Fire? — March 15, 2011
There's an old saying that if you're holding a hammer, everything looks like a nail. Does that mean that if you're an auditor every relationship looks like fraud, waste or abuse?
- SBA Opens its Review of Small Business Regulations — March 15, 2011
Are you a small business owner frustrated with outdated and often cumbersome regulations from the Small Business Administration? Then SBA wants to hear your suggestions on whether those rules should be streamlined, expanded, or possibly withdrawn altogether.
- Sen. Committee Confirms Dempsey as Army Chief — March 15, 2011
The Senate Armed Services Committee voted Tuesday to clear the nomination of Army Gen. Martin Dempsey as the next chief of staff of the Army. He would succeed Gen. George Casey, who is scheduled to retire in April.
- New GSA Acquisition Chief Calls for Government-Contractor Cooperation — March 14, 2011
The General Services Administration's new acquisition chief is calling for greater cooperation and communication between the government and its industry contractors, echoing a familiar refrain from members of the Obama administration's procurement team in recent months.
- Now 'Good Enough' Wins the Defense Contract — March 13, 2011
The Air Force's decision late last month to award the long-contested, $35 billion aerial refueling tanker program to Boeing ended a competition that had been fraught with controversy.
- Defense Shutdown Plans Outlined in Draft Memo — March 11, 2011
The Defense Department has laid out contingency plans detailing which parts of the U.S. military would continue to operate if the federal government shuts down, according to a draft guidance document circulating in the Pentagon.
- Obama: Two-week CRs are ‘Irresponsible' — March 11, 2011
President Obama said Friday he opposes funding government operations with multiple continuing resolutions and wants to see a resolution funding agencies for the rest of fiscal 2011.
- Army Skeptical of Fixed-Price Contracts — March 9, 2011
The Obama administration might be embracing fixed-priced contracts as the preferred method for purchasing goods and services from the private sector, but that strategy is not necessarily being implemented by the Army.
- Army Wants Better Tech, but Cheaper — March 9, 2011
The Army is putting its contracting emphasis on delivering better technologies for less money, a senior Defense Department official said today.
- DoD Hosting Public Meeting on Reporting of GFP — March 8, 2011
DoD is proposing to amend the Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS) to revise and expand reporting requirements for Government-furnished property to include items uniquely and non-uniquely identified, and to clarify policy for contractor access to Government supply sources.
- OMB Not Moving to Implement 'High Road' Contracting Policy — March 8, 2011
A controversial plan that would provide contractors that pay their employees higher wages and benefits a leg up when bidding for contracts is not currently under active consideration for implementation by the White House, according to President Obama's nominee to serve as deputy director of the Office of Management and Budget.
- DHS Awards Fewest Noncompetitive Contracts Ever — March 7, 2011
Reversing a trend that has marked its entire existence, the Homeland Security Department has dramatically reduced the number of noncompetitive contracts it approves and done a better job managing and overseeing those it awards, according to an audit released last week by DHS' inspector general.
- DoD To Hold Public Meeting on GFP Reporting — March 4, 2011
DoD is proposing to amend the Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS) to revise and expand reporting requirements for Government-furnished property to include items uniquely and non-uniquely identified, and to clarify policy for contractor access to Government supply sources.
- 8(a) Program: The Importance of Effective Fraud Prevention Controls — March 3, 2011
This testimony discusses the results of our prior investigation of the Small Business Administration's (SBA) 8(a) Business Development Program. SBA's 8(a) program, named for a section of the Small Business Act, is a development program created to help small, disadvantaged businesses compete in the American economy and access the federal procurement market.
- Buying Less With More at the Pentagon; a Guide for Newcomers — March 3, 2011
After three decades covering the U.S. military, journalist Andrew Cockburn has seen it often enough to recognize the pattern: The Air Force spends $100 million to build an EC-130H aircraft with ground-penetrating radar to hunt for $25 homemade bombs buried along Afghan roadways -- and after hundreds of flights, finds nothing.
- Agency Harnesses Technology to Aid Defense Interests — March 2, 2011
The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency has revamped financial processes, cut contract-award time, transformed the way it chooses investments and supported Afghanistan operations with leading-edge technology over the past year, DARPA’s director said here yesterday.
- Subcommittee Finds GSA Public Relations Contract Wasteful — March 1, 2011
A nearly quarter-million-dollar public relations contract was badly mismanaged by the General Services Administration, which allowed the vendor to write the statement of work, failed to clearly define specific deliverables and did not seek competitive bids, according to a Senate subcommittee investigation.
February
- A Contractor’s Guide to Surviving the Government Shutdown — February 28, 2011
The political stalemate in Washington seems more and more likely to lead to a government shutdown. If our leaders cannot reach a compromise, the government will be out of money beginning on March 5th. The total ramifications of a government shutdown are difficult to predict, but we expect that a shutdown will adversely affect the government contracting community.
- Information on Contractors' Past Performance Remains Spotty — February 28, 2011
Federal agencies are inconsistently entering mandatory reports on contractors' past performance in a government wide database, limiting the information available to procurement officials issuing multimillion-dollar wartime awards, witnesses told a panel on Monday.
- GSA Names New Acquisition Chief — February 24, 2011
The General Services Administration has named Mindy Connolly, a procurement policy analyst at the Office of Federal Procurement Policy, as its new chief acquisition officer, Government Executive has learned.
- Contractors Would Share the Pain of a Government Shutdown — February 23, 2011
When the government shut down for 27 days in 1995 and 1996, federal employees felt the impact most directly. But if the government ceased its operations next month because Congress failed to pass a spending bill to keep it running past March 4, hundreds of thousands of government contractors who provide a host of essential services that were not on the table 15 years ago would share the burden.
- Benefits of Contract Management Need No Proof — February 22, 2011
Many high-level administration officials and contracting experts say they believe improving the early stage of the procurement process will yield savings down the line.
- DoD Issues Final Rule on Bundling — February 22, 2011
DoD is adopting as final, without change, an interim rule amending the Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS) to implement the Fiscal Year 2010 National Defense Authorization Act, section 820, entitled ``Publication of Notification of Bundling of Contracts of the Department of Defense.''
- US Oversight of War-Zone Contractors Labeled Weak — February 22, 2011
President Barack Obama pledged nearly two years ago to fix the broken system of awarding and managing federal contracts. But a new report paints a grim picture of the government's reliance on the private sector for support in war zones and urges a series of reforms to prevent more U.S. tax dollars from being wasted.
- DoD's Contract Auditors Overwhelmed — February 20, 2011
The agency that makes sure the Defense Department and other agencies are not overcharged by contractors is overwhelmed.
- Administration's Budget Would Expand DHS' Acquisition Force — February 18, 2011
Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano justified a $24 million budget request for expanding and training the department's acquisition workforce by acknowledging contract management has been inconsistent across DHS.
- Bid Protests Breed Uncertainty — February 18, 2011
High above the Potomac and Anacostia rivers in Southeast Washington, construction crews have begun the largest federal construction job since the Pentagon, transforming St. Elizabeths Hospital into the new consolidated campus of the Homeland Security Department.
- DCAA Issues Audit Policy on Excessive Pass-Through Costs — February 18, 2011
In accordance with Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) 52.215-23, any indirect costs and associated profit applicable to subcontract costs where the contractor does not provide "added value" (e.g., subcontract management functions) are considered excessive pass-through costs which are unallowable.
- Federal Contract Spending Slowdown Just Beginning, OMB Sfficial Says — February 18, 2011
There are about 50 percent fewer federal contract specialists today than there were in 2001 because for the past 15 years the government has failed to invest adequately in the federal acquisition workforce and its training, a senior official at the Office of Management and Budget told a meeting of contractors and government officials.
- Budget Proposes Federal Workforce boost — February 14, 2011
The federal government could add as many as 15,000 new civilian employees to its 2.1 million payroll in fiscal 2012 as the Obama administration continues efforts to improve the workforce.
- DoD Issues Final Rule on Award-Fee Contracts — February 14, 2011
DoD is issuing a final rule amending the Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS) to address award-fee contracts, including eliminating the use of provisional award-fee payments.
- Unprecedented Pentagon Growth Comes to Halt — February 14, 2011
After enjoying a decade of historic growth fueled by the demands put on a force at war and the collective assumption that defense accounts were off limits for cuts, the Pentagon is no longer immune to fiscal belt-tightening.
- DoD Proposed Rules of the Armed Services Board of Contract Appeals — February 11, 2011
DoD is issuing a proposed rule to update the Rules of the Armed Services Board of Contract Appeals (ASBCA). The proposed rule implements statutory increases in the thresholds relating to the submission and processing of contract appeals and updates statutory references and other administrative information.
- Hispanic MBE Goal Sought for Maryland Contracts — February 11, 2011
Hispanic business advocates are asking to be promised 3 percent of business with Maryland agencies when lawmakers consider renewing the state’s minority business program later this year.
- Organization Wants to Set Standards for Gov’t Procurement Workers — February 11, 2011
Despite all the news lately about government acquisition, from recent congressional hearings about the Defense Contract Audit Agency to sweeping federal IT reform, one organization says there are a lack of standards in the field of public procurement.
- SBA Makes First Major Revision to 8(a) Program in a Decade — February 11, 2011
The Small Business Administration has finalized the most comprehensive changes to its 8(a) small and disadvantaged business contacting program in more than a decade, with a sharp focus on reforming and improving the transparency of Alaska native corporations.
- Air Force Chief Tells Industry to Brace for Budget Cuts — February 10, 2011
The Air Force's top officer told an audience of defense industry representatives on Wednesday that with the emerging budget crunch they must produce the capabilities they contract for and deliver them on time.
- Publishing Contracts Online? Not So Fast — February 10, 2011
The Obama administration announced on Thursday it was withdrawing a proposal that would have required federal agencies to post copies of contracts and task-and-delivery orders on a public website.
- SBA Chief sSgnals 2012 Budget Will Eliminate Some Programs — February 9, 2011
President Obama's fiscal 2012 budget, scheduled to be released on Monday, will streamline, and in some cases, eliminate entirely, several small business programs, according to Small Business Administrator Karen Mills.
- TRICARE Acquisition Chief Works to Bring Contracts In-house — February 9, 2011
Since arriving at the Military Health System in October 2008 to take the top contracting job at TRICARE Management Activity, Michael Fischetti has worked to increase and professionalize the government acquisition workforce and to bring contracting in-house.
- OMB Calls for 'Cultural Change’ in Contracting Community — February 4, 2011
Dan Gordon, administrator for the Office of Federal Procurement Policy, said Friday he would consider disclosing more information about government and contractor interactions, but reiterated that the administration’s so-called “myth busting” campaign will not alter regulations or statutes.
- OMB Debunks Contracting Myths — February 3, 2011
The administration’s top procurement policy official issued a memo Wednesday encouraging more constructive talks between government and industry, as part of a larger initiative to debunk myths about the acquisition process.
- Civilian Agencies Lag Behind Defense on Contract Audits — February 2, 2011
The Defense Department conducted nearly 90 percent of all federal contract audits in fiscal 2009, and there appears to be little support for creating an audit unit to support civilian agencies, witnesses told a congressional panel on Wednesday.
- DoD Issues Final Rule for Marking of Government Furnished Property — February 2, 2011
DoD is issuing a final rule amending the Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS) to require contractors to tag, label, or mark Government-furnished property items identified in the contract as subject to serialized item management
- Nonprofits Support OPM's Push for Contracting Reform — February 2, 2011
Connecticut Association of Nonprofits (CT Nonprofits) supports the memorandum sent earlier today by Office of Policy & Management Secretary Benjamin Barnes to the state's health and human services agency Commissioners.
- WTO Ruling Adds New Fuel to Tanker Debate — February 1, 2011
The World Trade Organization told the European Union on Monday that domestic aerospace giant Boeing has received billions in illegal subsidies from the U.S. government, the latest turn in the decade-long competition for the lucrative Air Force tanker program contract.
January
- Contractors Complain Audit Agency has Gotten too Strict — January 31, 2011
The defense industry is facing a changed -- and some say more tense -- relationship with the Defense Contract Audit Agency since the organization, under criticism from the Government Accountability Office, took steps to be more independent.
- Bring Accountability to Contract Protests — January 27, 2011
An article in the November/December 2010 issue of Defense Acquisition University’s Defense AT&L magazine discussed why companies file protests against contract awards and illustrated the realities of the federal contracting environment. Budgets are tightening, competition for those shrinking dollars is ferocious, and protests have seemingly become standard operating procedure.
- Federal Acquisition Circular 2005-49 Issued — January 24, 2011
This document summarizes the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) rules agreed to by DOD, GSA, and NASA in this Federal Acquisition Circular (FAC) 2005-49.
- Navy Orders a Halt to Procurement of Computer Centers — January 24, 2011
The Navy has ordered its procurement officers to stop buying computer servers or adding new data centers, a move that comes as the federal government prepares to announce agency-specific targets for reducing its information technology infrastructure.
NCMA Great Lakes State Chapter Receives Graalman Award— January 21, 2011
David Denomme, Past President of the NCMA Great Lakes State Chapter received the Chapter’s GRAALMAN Award at the Mid-Year Leadership Conference held Jan 21-22 in Las Vegas. The GRAALMAN is an annual award for successful chapter performance.
- Unwanted Pentagon Weapons Systems Often Prove Impossible to Kill — January 21, 2011
Defense Secretary Robert Gates, his finger to the political winds, is trying to stave off deep cuts to the Pentagon's budget by preemptively axing tens of billions of dollars of expensive -- and potentially unnecessary -- weapons systems.
- Public Procurement Investigation Exposes Concerted bBid-Rigging Practices — January 20, 2011
In July 2009 the Competition Authority started a preliminary investigation into domestic public procurement of new auto vehicles. The investigation's findings appear to have resulted largely from irregularities in the bidding documents, as identified by the authority staff during the execution of its bid proceedings.
- Contractors Believe the Government is Inefficient in Resolving Contract Issues — January 18, 2011
Nearly three-quarters (74%) of government contractors surveyed consider the government to be slow and inefficient in resolving contract issues, with 56% believing that the inefficiencies are caused by the Defense Contract Audit Agency (DCAA) and 18% saying it is caused by the contracting officer, according to Grant Thornton LLP’s 16th Annual Government Contractor Industry Survey.
- Customs, Border Bureau Forges Ahead on Insourcing — January 13, 2011
Insourcing might be slowing down at many federal agencies, but at the Homeland Security Department's Customs and Border Protection bureau, the push to federalize private sector functions is picking up steam.
- Watchdog for Afghanistan Reconstruction Resigns — January 11, 2011
The U.S. official in charge of overseeing the billions of dollars being spent to rebuild Afghanistan announced his resignation Monday, just a week after he fired two of his top deputies in a major shake-up of the organization.
- Create a One-Year Action Plan — January 10, 2011
You may envision your company as a much larger operation in five or 10 years’ time, with a schedule filled with government projects. But to make those dreams materialize, you need to do some proper planning.
- IG Finds Army Mismanaged Contingency Operations Support Contract — January 7, 2011
Army procurement officials failed to properly manage a key support contract for contingency operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, awarding millions of dollars of work without competition and disclosing bidders' proprietary information without their knowledge or consent, according to a watchdog's new report.
- Procurement Power Stays With Contracting Officers — January 7, 2011
Federal Claims Court Judge Susan Braden’s injunction this week against the Interior Department's sole-source contract should remind other officials that having a long title on a business card doesn’t mean they outrank a contracting officer in the procurement world.
- Pentagon Issues Conflict of Interest rule for Contractors — January 3, 2011
The Pentagon last week issued a new rule on organizational conflicts of interests -- or instances in which a company provides multiple services that could have conflicting interests, such as building a system and then testing it -- that instructs contracting officers to promote competition.
- Study Hails Use of Online Reverse Auctions — January 3, 2011
The expanded use of online reverse auctions is creating significant cost savings for taxpayers and major efficiency improvements for federal contracting officials, according to a survey released in late December 2010.
2010
December
- NIH Agency Tests Waters with Hybrid Procurement — December 31, 2010
The National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences is seeking ideas for a hybrid performance-based contract, in which a contractor potentially could provide enterprise IT services through a variety of procurement approaches.
- Defense Scales Back Organizational Conflict-of-Interest Rule — December 30, 2010
Industry officials scored a major regulatory victory at the end of December when the Defense Department agreed to scale back its final rule on organizational conflicts of interests, removing a host of controversial provisions that had drawn the ire of contracting organizations.
- New Comptroller General Formally Sworn Into Office — December 30, 2010
Gene L. Dodaro was sworn in today as the eighth Comptroller General of the United States and head of the Government Accountability Office (GAO), an independent, legislative-branch agency that helps oversee federal programs.
- Pentagon Narrowing Contracting Rules — December 30, 2010
The U.S. Department of Defense will significantly narrow the scope of contracts it will subject to tighter conflict-of-interest rules.
- DoD Issues Final Rule on Foreign Participation in Acquisitions in Support of Operations in Afghanistan — December 29, 2010
DoD is issuing a final rule to amend the Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS) to implement a waiver of section 302(a) of the Trade Agreements Act of 1979, as amended, which prohibits acquisitions of products or services from nondesignated countries, in order to allow acquisition from the nine South Caucasus/Central and South Asian (SC/CASA) states; and determination of inapplicability of the Balance of Payments Program evaluation factor to offers of products (other than arms, ammunition, or war materials) from the SC/CASA states to support operations in Afghanistan.
- Prompt Payment Interest Rate Revised — December 29, 2010
For the period beginning January 1, 2011, and ending on June 30, 2011, the prompt payment interest rate is 2 5/8 per centum per annum.
- Canada, EU Trade Deal Still on Track: Van Loan — December 27, 2010
Canada's talks on sealing a historic free trade agreement with the European Union by 2011 remain "ahead of schedule" despite a three-month delay in the presentation of formal offers by each side, according to Trade Minister Minister Peter Van Loan.
- Defense Proposes New Requirements for Government Property Reporting — December 22, 2010
Defense Proposes New Requirements for Government Property Reporting DoD proposes to amend the Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS) to revise and expand reporting requirements for Government-furnished property to include items uniquely and non-uniquely identified, and to clarify policy for contractor access to Government supply sources.
- Insourcing Provisions Land on the Cutting Room Floor — December 22, 2010
The scaled-down Defense authorization bill that cleared the House and Senate on Wednesday failed to include a pair of controversial provisions, opposed by industry contractors, that would have significantly expanded the government's ability to insource private sector functions.
- Defense Contracting Cuts Might be Much Smaller than Predicted — December 21, 2010
Deputy Defense Secretary William Lynn on Tuesday told Virginia lawmakers impending contracting cuts Defense Secretary Robert Gates announced last summer could be far smaller than many predicted, an aide to Rep. Gerry Connolly, D-Va., said.
- The Impact of Health Care Reform on Government Procurement — December 21, 2010
While the impact the recently enacted health care reform (officially H.R. 3590, the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act or PPACA) will have on businesses, individuals and the economy in general cannot be determined at this time, there are at least two provisions that could affect government procurement.
- New Congress Could Put the Brakes on Insourcing — December 16, 2010
The 112th Congress is unlikely to let the Obama administration move full-speed ahead on its initiative to bring contractor jobs back in-house, a consultant and a Republican Senate staff member said on Thursday.
- Bisnow's Federal Procurement Update — December 14, 2010
Usually the big parties are Friday night, but this weekend got off to an early start for those who joined us for our Federal Procurement Update featuring Office of Federal Procurement Policy Administrator Dan Gordon Friday morning at the Renaissance Hotel.
- Federal Acquisition Circular 2005-47 Issued — December 13, 2010
This summarizes the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) rules agreed to by the Civilian Agency Acquisition Council and the Defense Acquisition Regulations Council (Councils) in this Federal Acquisition Circular (FAC) 2005-47.
- Panel to NCMA: Deficit Will Force Contracting Reform — December 13, 2010
The massive federal deficit is going to force the government to change how it interacts with the contracting community, according to a panel of experts gathered at the Government Contract Management Conference held by the National Contract Management Association (NCMA) in Arlington, Va., this week.
- Flaws in Process Cause Procurement Problems — December 12, 2010
or decades, the procurement problems have been a grave impediment in our government. Just this year alone, numerous newspaper headlines illustrated these problems.
- Labour Admits Errors on Defence — December 11, 2010
The Labour Party has admitted it made mistakes in its defence spending when in power – but has accused the Coalition Government of making the situation worse for the armed forces.
- Federal Procurement Update: A Meeting of the Contracting Minds — December 10, 2010
This morning OFPP Administrator Daniel Gordon and George Washington University Professor Steven Schooner spoke at a contracting meeting entitled “Federal Procurement Update.” Moderator Gail Bassin of JBS International presided.
- OMB Plans to Bust IT Contracting Myths — December 10, 2010
Federal IT acquisition workers can expect new training in 2011 - some of it mandatory -- on exactly what they can and can't talk about with prospective vendors.
- Armenia Joins WTO Government Procurement Agreement — December 7, 2010
WTO Secretary General Pascal Lamy welcomed Armenia's joining the agreement saying the Armenian authorities' government procurement policy is in tune with with WTO’s general principles.
- DOD Issues Proposed Rule on Government Property — December 3, 2010
DOD Issues Proposed Rule on Government Property for Comment DoD is proposing to amend the Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS) to revise DFARS part 245, Government Property, to reflect the recent revisions to FAR part 45, Government Property.
- DoD Proposes New Rules for Business Systems — December 3, 2010
DoD is proposing to amend the Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS) to improve the effectiveness of DoD oversight of contractor business systems.
- The World of Contracting Property — December 3, 2010
The Post misrepresents reality when it reports on how federal contracts are awarded without competition [front page, Nov. 26].
- Contract Disputes Reach 15-Year High — December 1, 2010
Bid protests filed with GAO increase 16 percent in fiscal 2010 from the previous year, but most cases are resolved before the watchdog issues a decision.
November
- GRPA bill on track after 'inherently governmental' speed bump — November 30, 2010
Federal contractors will be allowed to continue providing administrative support to government agencies in drafting and preparing required strategic plans and performance reports, according to proposed legislative language Senate Democrats offered on Monday.
- DoD Clarifies Policy on Price Competition — November 24, 2010
The referenced DPAP memo prohibits Contracting Officers from determining that a price is based on adequate price competition in accordance with FAR 15.403-1(c)1(ii) or (iii) when only one offer is received.
- DoD Issues Final Rules Amending DFARS — November 24, 2010
Contract Authority for Advanced Component Development or Prototype Units (DFARS Case 2009-D034) DoD is adopting as final, with a minor change, an interim rule amending the DFARS to implement section 819 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2010.
- Trade Deal with EU to Go Beyond Tariffs — November 21, 2010
The European Union wants a trade deal with the Philippines to go beyond tariffs and will seek as well commitments on services, government procurement and intellectual property (IP) protection, an official last week said.
- The IT SME Procurement Challenge — November 16, 2010
The government has announced it will increase SME procurement to 25% of public sector contracts. But is it likely to meet this quota with small ICT ...
- NCMA Habitat for Humanity Project 2010 — November 15, 2010
On the morning of November 9, 2010, twenty-one NCMA members, staff, and friends returned to West St. Tammany Parish, Louisiana, to begin a week of building new homes for people whose lives are still affected by the passage of Hurricane Katrina in 2005. As always, our volunteer group represented a mix of people who had different levels of construction site experience, but were united in our desire to make the most of our week and to make a difference in a recovering community.
- Defense Issues Interim Rule on Award-Fee Reductions for Health and Safety Issues — November 12, 2010
DoD is issuing an interim rule amending the Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS) to implement section 823 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2010. Section 823 requires contracting officers to consider reduction or denial of award fee if contractor or subcontractor actions jeopardize the health or safety of Government personnel. Effective Date: November 12, 2010. Reference Federal Register: November 12, 2010 (Volume 75, Number 218).
- Energy Issues Final Rule on Socioeconomic Programs — November 10, 2010
The Department of Energy (DOE) is amending the Department of Energy Acquisition Regulation (DEAR) Socioeconomic Programs to make changes to conform to the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR), remove out-of-date coverage, and update references. Today's rule does not alter substantive rights or obligations under current law. Effective Date: December 10, 2010. Reference Federal Register: November 10, 2010 (Volume 75, Number 217).
- Procurement Leader has High Expectations for GSA Schedules — November 4, 2010
The General Services Administration unveiled a new vision for its Federal Acquisition Service on Tuesday, complete with lofty expectations that the agency can secure a significantly larger slice of the government procurement marketplace.
October
- DoD Issues Final Rule for Continuation of Essential Contractor Services — October 29, 2010
DoD is adopting as final, with changes, the interim rule amending the Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS) to add policy and a contract clause requiring that contractors providing essential contractor services, as determined by the requiring activity, shall be prepared to continue such services during periods of crisis. Effective date: October 29, 2010.
- DoD Issues Final Rule on Balance of Payments Program Exemption — October 29, 2010
DoD is issuing a final rule amending the Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS) to implement the exemption from the Balance of Payments Program for construction material that is commercial information technology.Effective Date: October 29, 2010. Reference Federal Register: October 29, 2010 (Volume 75, Number 209).
- DoD Issues Final Rule on Trade Agreements--New Thresholds — October 29, 2010
DoD is adopting as final, without change, the interim rule that amended the Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS) to incorporate increased thresholds for application of the World Trade Organization Government Procurement Agreement and the Free Trade Agreements, as determined by the United States Trade Representative.
- Trade Group: Gov't IT Contracting Reform Needed — October 26, 2010
The U.S. government should appoint an independent auditor to monitor every major IT acquisition, in an effort to avoid failed projects, delays and cost overruns, a new report from a tech trade group recommends.
- DoD Revises Electronic Subcontracting Reporting — October 25, 2010
This interim rule amends the Defense Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS) to conform to the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) by providing Department of Defense (DoD)-specific policy and procedures related to the Electronic Subcontracting Reporting System (eSRS).
- Procurement Conference Offers Education, Networking — October 25, 2010
The conference, at the Francis Scott Key Holiday Inn in Frederick, was organized by U.S. Rep. Roscoe Bartlett and Strengthening the Mid-Atlantic Region for Tomorrow. The day drew nearly 1,000 businesses, 80 speakers and 50 exhibitors.
- The Next Big Contracting Scandal — October 25, 2010
In the past few years, the government contracting industry has weathered its share of scandals. From accusations of questionable behavior by contractors in Iraq and Afghanistan to front-page exposés of cozy relationships between contractors and customers, the industry’s reputation has suffered.
- The Pentagon-Contractor Handshake — October 25, 2010
The Pentagon extended a firm handshake to IT security contractors on Oct. 20, pledging to strengthen the role of the private sector in protecting its networks -- even as the White House stressed the need to trim defense contracting fat earlier this year.
- OFPP Proposes Rule Eliminating the Exemption From Cost Accounting Standards for Contracts Executed and Performed Entirely Outside the United States, Its Territories, and Possessions — October 20, 2010
The Office of Federal Procurement Policy (OFPP), Cost Accounting Standards (CAS) Board (Board), invites public comments concerning a Notice of Proposed Rule (NPR) to eliminate an exemption from the Cost Accounting Standards for contracts executed and performed entirely outside the United States, its territories, and possessions. Reference Federal Register Vol. 75, No. 202, dated Wednesday, October 20, 2010.
- SBA Lifts Suspension of Technology Contractor — October 20, 2010
The Small Business Administration has reached an agreement with recently suspended technology contractor GTSI Corp. that will allow the systems integrator to resume most of its business with the federal government during an ongoing investigation, subject to strict oversight.
- TARP Contracting has 'Significant' Transparency Issues — October 15, 2010
Treasury's use of private contractors as part of the much-criticized Troubled Asset Relief Program raises "significant" transparency and conflict concerns, the Congressional Oversight Panel said in a report Thursday.
Editorial: Overhaul Small-Biz Contracting — October 12, 2010
The Small Business Administration's surprising decision this month to suspend tech vendor GTSI points out why federal contracting privileges granted to small businesses — and especially Alaska native corporations (ANC) — need to be overhauled.
New DOD Contracting Rules put Small Businesses in Harm's Way — October 12, 2010
Small companies are proving vital to U.S. economic recovery, so what will happen if defense acquisition reform cuts into their livelihood?
Proposal Would End Alaska Native Contracting Advantages — October 12, 2010
The battle over the special contracting privileges afforded Alaska native corporations is resuming.
Regardless of Perception, U.S. Acquisition System is World's Best — October 12, 2010
A constant in American politics is the trashing of the past administration by the current one. This approach to policy is most visible in weapon procurement, where there are complaints by each new administration about how bad the Defense Department's acquisition culture has become or how poorly DoD has managed major programs.
Senators Find Contractors Too Close to Afghan Warlords — October 12, 2010
A year-long Senate Armed Services Committee investigation has revealed that a number of private security firms working in Afghanistan under Defense Department contracts have hired Afghan warlords and powerbrokers with links to murder, kidnapping and bribery -- and the Taliban.
GAO Denies Protest in Air Force Tanker Contest — October 7, 2010
GAO on Wednesday denied a protest by a company the Air Force tossed out of the competition to manufacture a new fleet of aerial refueling tankers, ensuring that Boeing Co. and the European consortium EADS will be the only bidders for the lucrative contract.
DoD Policy Revised Authorizing Direct Submission of Interim Vouchers — August 19, 2010
The Director of Defense Procurement and Acquisition Policy issued a memo on August 17, 2010 that essentially eases the requirements, especially for small businesses, to qualify for direct billing without requiring an approved billing system. The change is also intended to ease DoD administrative burden in processing low-risk payment vouchers.
Court Rules Against Government, Again, in Small Business Parity — August 17, 2010
For the second time this year, the U.S. Court of Federal Claims has ruled that companies operating in Historically Underutilized Business Zones must have top priority among small businesses when competing for government contracts.
GSA Revises Regulation for Acquisition of Utility Services — August 17, 2010
The General Services Administration (GSA) is amending the General Services Administration Acquisition Regulation (GSAR) to improve the acquisition of utility services. Two clauses specific to utility services are being added to this part, they are the availability of funds clause which replaces the FAR clause and the disputes clause which supplements the FAR clause. The Effective Date is September 13, 2010. Reference Federal Register: August 12, 2010 (Volume 75, Number 155).
New Rules May Help Women-Owned Firms Get Federal Contracts — August 17, 2010
The guidelines aimed at getting women-owned businesses the minimum 5% of government contracts initially mandated in 1994 will focus on 83 industries, including residential construction.
Civilian Agencies Get Green Light to Continue Insourcing — August 16, 2010
The Defense Department might be abandoning efforts to bring contractor jobs back in-house, but don't expect civilian agencies to necessarily follow suit anytime soon.
Contracting Industry Anxious about Defense Cutbacks, but Some See Opportunity — August 16, 2010
As spending on large Defense Department weapon systems has become increasingly constrained in recent years, defense contractors large and small looked to the services industry as a more reliable and growing segment of Pentagon spending. No more.
GLS Chapter Program Year 2010-11 Chapter Leaders
Our next Board meeting will be June 8, 2010. Shortly thereafter, the PY10-11 Board Members and Chairs will be announced to Chapter members.
Call for 2010 – 2011 Contract Management Leadership Development Program Applications - 05/01/2010
Applications are now being accepted for admission to the 2010 – 2011 NCMA Contract Management Leadership Development Program (CMLDP). This program is designed to help develop the next generation of contract management leaders through an intensive year-long educational experience. Program participants will receive 180 hours of top quality training in fundamental leadership, NCMA governance, and contract management. The program is quite relevant to contract management professionals regardless of their employer, location, or industry
Pentagon Official Searches for the Source of Contracting Waste - 06/02/2010
Frank Kendall arguably has the most difficult job in all of federal acquisition -- rooting out the source of entrenched waste in the Defense Department's $375 billion-per-year contracting system.
Contract Overload: GAO Finds Continued Problems with MACs - 06/01/2010
The proliferation of multiple award and governmentwide contracts are costing agencies millions of dollars and wasting time of contracting officers, according to a new report by the Government Accountability Office.
Department of Veterans Affairs: Agency Has Exceeded Contracting Goals for Veteran-Owned Small Businesses, but It Faces Challenges with Its Verification Program - 06/01/2010
GAO-10-458, May 28. [veterans affairs]
Pentagon Procurement Officer Describes Overhaul in Contracting - 06/01/2010
Harrington, in excerpts from an interview, discusses his responsibility of helping to execute the Obama administration's strategy of overhauling how the federal government handles contracting.
Posting all Fed Contracts Online Alarm Contractors - 06/01/2010
The Obama administration said it expects to begin posting online the full texts of federal contracts, task orders and delivery orders as a way to advance government transparency, kicking off a public debate on how and whether that should be done.
Time for GSA to Step Up and Prove its Worth - 06/01/2010
The General Services Administration is failing in its mission to wield the government's massive buying power to get the best possible prices for goods and services.
Wartime Contract Fraud Expected to Increase - 06/01/2010
More instances of contract fraud and theft are expected as American troops draw down in Iraq and increase their presence in Afghanistan, witnesses at a hearing on wartime contracting said Monday.
Navy Wants to Establish a Preferred Supplier Program - 05/28/2010
Most major companies have them, and now the Navy wants one too -- a preferred supplier program that would give preference to contractors that have demonstrated superior performance in controlling costs, meeting schedules, providing quality services and products, and reducing energy consumption
From Nextgov.com: Multiple Award Schedules program Suffers from Dearth of Data - 05/26/2010
The General Services Administration needs better data collection methods to improve the pricing and performance of its Multiple Award Schedules program, according to an oversight audit.
The Great Lakes State Chapter is awarded the Silver Walter R. Graalman Award
The National Graalman Committee Chair reviews chapters based on several criteria and how each chapter meets the National’s outlined objectives. Then, each chapter earns a score based on the criteria met for the prior program year. Gold, Silver, and Bronze awards are presented to the winning chapters every year in January at the Mid-Year Chapter Leadership Meeting. For the Program Year 2008-09, our Chapter received the Silver Level. Thanks for your hard work!
Call for Nominations!
It’s that time once again for nominations of NCMA members who desire to serve on the Great Lakes State Chapter Board of Directors. The following positions will be open for the FY10-11 Program Year:
President Elect
The President Elect is mentored by the current President, to be prepared to take over the President position in the next Program Year. The Chapter President is the chief executive officer of the chapter and chairs all chapter meetings. He/She is responsible for administration and surveillance of all chapter activities and is accountable to the National Board of Directors. The President is responsible for the appointment, guidance, and supervision of all chapter committee chairs. He/She is charged with providing an effective organization and carries out the policies formally handed down by the National Organization. The President ensures the timely performance of all chapter activities and coordinates matters of importance with the National Vice President for the Region.
Vice President
The Chapter Vice President follows the President in the line of chapter authority, and in the absence or incapacity of the Chapter President shall automatically assume the authority, duties, and responsibilities of the President. He/She shall have authority in coordinating all committee activities, obtaining monthly activity reports from each committee chairperson, and such other authority as is delegated by the Chapter President.
Secretary
The Chapter Secretary follows the Vice President in the line of chapter authority and in the absence of the Chapter President and Vice President shall automatically assume the authority, duties, and responsibilities of the President. The Chapter Secretary maintains the official records of all chapter activities and properties, except for financial affairs. The Secretary shall originate and maintain such records as the minutes of the Executive Assembly; minutes of regular and special chapter membership meetings; reports to the NCMA Office; and a current roster of all chapter assets.
Treasurer
The Chapter Treasurer follows the Secretary in the line of chapter authority, and in the absence of the Chapter President, Vice President, and Secretary shall automatically assume the responsibilities of the President. The Chapter Treasurer is responsible to effectively manage and maintain accurate records of the chapter's finances. He/She is responsible for the chapter's bank account; receipt of all income and timely deposit thereof; payment of all accounts payable; and maintenance of all official financial records.
Trustees – 2 year and 3 year
The Chapter Trustees serve as long-term board members andfollow in chapter authority after the Treasurer and in order of seniority. Chapter Trustees are responsible for exercising fiducial oversight on behalf of Chapter Membership. Specific responsibilities are to include audit the chapter’s financial books, perform annual financial audit required by NCMA HQ, develop the chapter operating budget, oversee any investments (should there be any), and aid and assist the board in the general operation of the board.
Persons interested in these positions should send an email no later than June 1, 2010 to carol.wiles@gd-ais.com. Please include your full name and contact information (organization, phone, email and NCMA member number).
Elections will take place electronically June 7-11, 2010, with the announcement to follow.
The Officer installment will occur mid-late June 2010.
We are also looking for the following non-officer positions:
Program Chair
Plans and presents balanced and informative programs designed to assist chapter members in their professional development. This may include brief workshops, monthly meetings, or seminars and conferences.
Membership Chair
Recruits prospective members, ensures the retention of current members, and helps the chapter achieve steady and healthy growth.
Changes to NCMA Membership Structure and Rates Effective July 1, 2010
To maintain the quality and availability of our member benefits and services for our growing population, the Board of Directors has approved changes to the NCMA membership structure and a dues increase, the first in three years. Between now and July 1, current rates will remain in effect, and we encourage all members and prospective members to beat the increase and renew or join early. Renewing your membership for multiple years at the current rate, if you prefer, is a great way to lock in years of NCMA member benefits at today's rate.
Changes to NCMA membership structure and rates, effective July 1, 2010
Type |
Current Rate |
Approved Rate |
Individual |
$110 |
$125 |
Associate |
$45 |
— |
New Professional |
— |
$75 |
Retired |
$45 |
$55 |
Student |
$0 |
$25 |
Member Pro Vita |
$1,000 |
$1,000 |
Initiation |
$20 |
$25 |
World Congress 2010 – Ft. Lauderdale, FL
July 18-21, 2010
World Congress is about bringing together the greatest minds in the business to provide advice, best practices, and tools you can put to immediate use to help you and yourorganization deal with the issues you confront every day.This year’s event features improved educational content and an improved level of participant networking and communication, which will give you the competitive advantage to improve what is most important to you, your contracts.
Register now! (link) https://www.cteusa.com/ncma11/ or download and complete the registration form:
http://www.ncmahq.org/files/PDFs/WC10RegForm.pdf
|
On or before June 11, 2010 |
After June 11, 2010 |
One Day |
NCMA Member |
$950 |
$1,050 |
$650 |
Nonmember |
$1,075* |
$1,175* |
* You will receive a one-year complimentary NCMA membership with full conference registration payment.
Register before the advanced deadline, Friday, June 11, 2010, has the chance to sneak up on you!
Group Discount Rates: If you have a group of five or more attendees who register at the same time, you qualify for a group discount. For all inquiries pertaining to group discounts, contact Rita Rose at rrose@ncmahq.org or 571-382-1108.
Reminder that NCMA is Here to Support You, the Contracting Professional…
through several means including, magazines and journals, Webinars, E-Courses, National Educational Seminars and more. Click here for more information!
Other News
- DoD Adopts Rule on Research and Development Contract Type Determinations — April 8, 2010
DoD is adopting as final, without change, an interim rule that requires the Milestone Decision Authority (MDA) for a major defense acquisition program (MDAP) to select the contract type for a development program that is consistent with the level of program risk in accordance with section 818 of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2007.
- DoD Proposes New Rule Minimizing Use of Hexavalent Chromium — April 8, 2010
DoD is proposing to amend the Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS) to address requirements for minimizing the use of hexavalent chromium in defense weapon systems, subsystems, components, and other items.
- High Road Contracting Policy Comes into Focus — April 5, 2010
For months, few concrete details have emerged about the Obama administration's controversial, but as yet unannounced High Road contracting policy, which would allow agencies to favor labor-friendly firms when evaluating bid proposals.
- OFPP Creates the Next Big Buzz in Contracting — April 5, 2010
Earlier this week, the Office of Federal Procurement Policy, part of the Office of Management and Budget, issued new guidance on how agencies should define what is inherently governmental work.
Pamela Hill is Awarded the Arthur G. Muller Volunteer Award
Ms. Pamela Hill is being recognized by both the National and local Chapter of the NCMA for the Muller Award on January 23, 2010 at the Mid-Year Leadership meeting in Las Vegas.
This Award is intended to recognize, annually, NCMA members who have served the Association, without compensation, through their participation, contribution, and leadership in its activities.
As a volunteer, Ms. Pamela Hill demonstrated exceptional effort and dedication during the past program year by working tirelessly to support, promote, and revitalize our local Chapter. Through her efforts our Chapter has benefited from increased enthusiasm, community outreach, and alignment with national NCMA goals. Ms. Hill’s accomplishments go far beyond those expected from volunteers.
Our Chapter would like to thank Pam for her contributions to the Chapter.
Call for Interested Members for NCMA’s Board of Directors - 01/01/2010
In accordance with the NCMA National Bylaws, and Association Policy 5–12, National Elections Process, NCMA invites members to submit statements of interest for the position of board director.
D.C. considers contracting changes - 01/06/2010
D.C. officials may consider rewriting the city's contracting rules after Councilwoman Mary Cheh, D-Ward 3, proposed major changes to the process Tuesday.
DoD Requests Comments on Proposed Rule for Foreign Participation in Acquisitions in Support of Operations in Afghanistan - 01/06/2010
DoD is proposing to amend the Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS) to implement: Waiver of the section 302(a) of the Trade Agreements Act of 1979...
Call for Papers: The W. Gregor Macfarlan Excellence in Contract Management Research and Writing Program - 01/05/2010
There is still time to submit papers for the Fourth Annual W. Gregor Macfarlan Excellence in Contract Management Research and Writing Program. Papers may be submitted for consideration in one of three categories: graduate research, professional research, and undergraduate paper writing. The deadline for submission of papers for the 2009 Macfarlan program is January 15, 2010.
Chief Acquisition Officers Council 2010 Acquisition Excellence Awards - 01/05/2010
The Chief Acquisition Officers Council is seeking nominations for the 2010 Acquisition Excellence Awards. The awards will be presented May 5, 2010 at the General Services Administration Training Conference and Expo held in Orlando, Florida. Nominations are being solicited for Federal employees engaged in teams or individual activity that led to results.
Outsourcing Luncheon Speaker at GWU Law, January 12 - 01/05/2010
On January 12, 2010, the George Washington University Law School Government Procurement Law Program is pleased to present professor Allison Stanger discussing her book One Nation Under Contract: The Outsourcing of American Power and the Future of Foreign Policy (Yale University Press 2009).
Class Deviation to the Federal Acquisition Regulation - Extension of Authority for Use of Simplified Acquisition Procedures for Certain Commercial Items - 01/04/2010
The Class Deviation - Extension of Authority for Use of Simplified Acquisition Procedures for Certain Commercial Items, DAR tracking Number: 2009-O0016
New 8(a) Partnership Agreement Between the U.S. Small Business Administration and the Department of Defense - 01/04/2010
The referenced DPAP memo, dated 29 December 2009, provides notification of a new 8(a) Partnership Agreement between the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and the Department of Defense through September 30, 2012...
DoD Issues Final Rules on Technical Data and Computer Software Requirements for Major Weapon Systems - 12/31/2009
DoD is adopting as final, with a minor change, the interim rule that amended the Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS) to implement Section 802(a) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2007 and DoD policy requirements.
OMB Issues Updated Guidance on the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act - 12/31/2009
The updated guidance included in this Memorandum incorporates lessons learned from the reporting period ending September 30, 2009 (the first reporting period under the Recovery Act) and further addresses recommendations of the Government Accountability Office in its report...
Are there contracting topics that you would like to see presented through the Great Lakes State Chapter? Please feel free to share your comments with any Board member on the Chapter Directory page. There are email links provided.
Would you like to get more involved with the Great Lakes State Chapter?
The Board is always welcoming new ideas, members, and leaders. Board meetings are open to all members and held on the 2nd Tuesday of each month. Click here for the Calendar of Events. If you would like to attend a meeting, or just provide some comments, please contact David Denomme, President.
NCMA Great Lakes State Chapter – 30th Anniversary Celebration
On Thursday, June 11, 2009 the NCMA Great Lake State Chapter celebrated it’s 30th Anniversary. It was held at Burton Manor in Livonia, Michigan and was attended by a broad spectrum of members. We would like to take this time to thank all members for your support to our Chapter in the past, present and future. Below are some photos from our event.
Entertainment was provided by: Scotty Gunther – Emcee, Comedian and the Co-Worker’s Challenge.
www.scottysays.com.
Photography was provided by: Dustin Francis Photography www.dustinfrancis.com.
We would like to thank all the members that joined us in June for our 30th Anniversary Celebration! Photos from this event are posted here.
NCMA Great Lakes State Chapter appoints Pamela Hill as President-Elect
Mr. Michael Jennings, who was elected as President-Elect, has decided to pursue a career out-of-state. As such, he regretfully resigned from his position. We will miss Mike and appreciate all the help he has provided to the Chapter in his role last year as Trustee. We wish him and his family the best of luck in their future endeavors.
Ms. Pamela Hill was nominated as a Trustee for this program year, and last program year was Program Chair. She has spent much time and effort in support of our Chapter these past few years. Upon Mike’s departure, she expressed her interest to take over this very important role. The Board voted unanimously to appoint Ms. Hill President-Elect at the October 13 Board meeting. We look forward to Pam’s continued support of our Chapter.
Cost Estimating and Contract Pricing Seminar was Held October 29, 2009
We would like to thank all of those who attended our sold-out NES on October 29, 2009. A special thanks goes out to our Guest Speaker, Ms. Shene¢ Commodore, CPCM. Ms. Commodore is President of Commodore Consulting, LLC and is a member of the NCMA Atlanta Chapter. www.commodoreconsulting.com.
Are there contracting topics that you would like to see presented through the Great Lakes State Chapter? Please feel free to share your comments with any Board member on the Chapter Directory page. There are email links provided.
Would you like to get more involved with the Great Lakes State Chapter?
The Board is always welcoming new ideas, members, and leaders. Board meetings are open to all members and held on the 2nd Tuesday of each month. Click here for the Calendar of Events. If you would like to attend a meeting, or just provide some comments, please contact David Denomme, President.
Certification Information Now Easier to Find - 09/28/2009
Information on NCMA's certification programs is now easier to locate than ever! Everything you need has been reorganized under the new "Get Certified" button on the left-hand side of the page. Whether you're looking for the basics of certification, eligibility requirements, recertification requirements, or FAQs about any aspect of the program, you can find it under this new menu item. ttp://www.ncmahq.org/GetCertified/?navItemNumber=6088
President Signs Bill Repealing Defense Personnel System - 10/30/2009
President Obama on Wednesday signed the death warrant for the Pentagon's personnel system, the same day the Government Accountability Office issued a report urging the Defense Department to better address employee concerns with pay for performance when devising a new framework.
President Signs Defense Authorization Act - 10/29/2009
President Barack Obama today signed the fiscal 2010 National Defense Authorization Act during a ceremony at the White House. Obama hailed the act, which contains $680.2 billion in military budget authority, as transformational legislation that targets wasteful defense spending.
SBA Proposes Major Revisions to Small Business Contracting Program - 10/29/2009
The Small Business Administration on Wednesday proposed some of the most comprehensive changes to its 8(a) small and disadvantaged business contacting program in more than a decade.
Defense Firms in Probe Received $30M in Stimulus Money - 10/28/2009
The Department of Defense has awarded nearly $30 million in stimulus contracts to six companies while they were under federal criminal investigation on suspicion of fraud.
Embattled DCAA Director Reassigned - 10/28/2009
Embattled Defense Contract Audit Agency Director April Stephenson was removed from her post Monday, the Defense Department announced.
OMB Calls for 5 Percent Growth in Civilian Acquisition Workforce - 10/28/2009
Civilian agencies should increase their acquisition workforce by at least 5 percent by 2014, according to a memo the Office of Management and Budget released on Tuesday. In a second memo, OMB sought to limit the use of noncompetitive and higher-risk types of contracts.
DISA, GSA offer Details on Satellite Communications Services Contract - 10/27/2009
Satellite service providers met with government procurement officials Oct. 22 to hear details about the upcoming $5 billion, 10-year Future ComSatCom Services Acquisition, and to proffer questions and concerns about this acquisition that could become a model for others to come.
DoD Could Replace NSPS Instead of Reverting to Old Systems - 10/27/2009
The Defense Department's controversial pay-for-performance system is headed for repeal, and there are several ways the dismantling of the National Security Personnel System could proceed, say advocates and employee groups.
Group asks Administration to Measure Results of Stimulus Projects - 10/27/2009
Earlier in October, thousands of recipients of federal Recovery Act contracts reported to citizens how their money was being spent. In data published on Oct. 15 on Recovery.gov, recipients disclosed the nature of their contracts, where the work was performed and the number of jobs saved or created.
New Chapter Officers and Chairs Announced
On June 11, 2009, the following Board Members were inducted into the Great Lakes State Chapter:
- President – David Denomme
- Vice President – Carol Wiles
- Secretary – Tina Hendricks
- Treasurer – Rhonda Mosley-Jones (on second term from last program year)
- Trustee (2-year) – Natalie Baird
- Trustee (1-year) – Pam Hill
- Program Chair – James Phillips, Jr.
- Past President – Ray Folden
NCMA Announces Contract Management E-Courses - 06/05/2009
NCMA is proud to announce its new suite of contract management e-courses. This is education at your fingertips! Contract management is an extraordinarily busy and ever-changing profession, and contract managers demand learning opportunities that are self-paced, relevant, and have 24/7 availability. NCMA is dedicated to the delivery of continuous learning opportunities supporting the contract management workforce.
Coalition Asks Court To Halt E-Verify - 09/03/2009
A coalition of business groups, led by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, filed for an emergency court order Wednesday to prevent a rule from going into effect that would require federal contractors to verify the legal status of their workers.
'Buy American' -- Why Not? - 09/02/2009
Federal government purchases make up about 20% of the U.S. economy, yet the United States is almost alone among the major developed nations and China in not having a significant "buy domestic" government procurement program.
Procurement Outsourcing 'Key To Business Recovery' - 09/02/2009
Business leaders believe outsourcing procurement can play a vital role in helping firms recover from the financial crisis.
Small Businesses Make Modest Contracting Gains - 09/02/2009
According to data compiled by Eagle Eye Publishers Inc., federal spending with small business increased by more than $10 billion from fiscal 2007 to 2008.
Civilian Agency Contract Spending Continues To Climb - 09/01/2009
President Obama shook up the federal procurement community in March when he held a news conference to announce major reforms of the contracting system aimed at saving taxpayers $40 billion annually.
Crunch Time For Federal Procurement Staffs - 09/01/2009
Late August and September are typically peak season for agency procurement staffs, busy spending the remains of their budgets before the fiscal year ends Sept. 30. This year the influx of stimulus cash adds to the workload.
Many Recovery Act Contracts Fall Into High-Risk Category - 09/01/2009
More than half the Recovery Act contracts federal agencies have awarded are cost-reimbursement agreements, which the Obama administration has repeatedly described as risky and prone to abuse.
Air Force Dangles Bonuses to Keep Contracting Officers - 08/28/2009
In an effort to keep experienced contracting officers in uniform during a critical period, the Air Force recently approved funding for a sizable bonus program aimed at keeping them from leaving service for more lucrative jobs in the private sector.
Procurement Fraud Not Just for Large Contractors - 08/28/2009
While procurement fraud risks are often thought of as the domain of large federal contractors, small and mid-sized firms are at risk as well, and thanks to increased enforcement, the stakes are higher than ever.
Call for Statements – Board of Directors 2009 – 2010
In accordance with the NCMA National Bylaws, and Association Policy 5-12, National Elections Process, NCMA invites members to submit statements of interest for the position of Board Director. The NCMA Board of Directors is the volunteer governing body of the association, and consists of the officers and directors, as established by the National Bylaws. As officials of the association, Board members are responsible to the membership for the proper governance of the association. Submissions due February 27. Read more…
Acquisition Lawyers Say Mandatory Disclosure Rule Is Opaque — February 18, 2009
A mandatory contractor disclosure rule that took effect late last year
is proving difficult to decipher, according to procurement lawyers.
Defense Extends Suspension of Price Adjustments for Small Disadvantaged — February 18, 2009
The Defense Department has extended its suspension of a policy that
allowed it to adjust bid prices to give small disadvantaged businesses
a leg up in winning contracts, citing a November 2008 court ruling that
deemed the practice unconstitutional.
The Stimulus Package, The Contracting Workforce and Reinventing ... — February 18, 2009
This should be organized by the Office of Federal Procurement Policy in
OMB. We should also do a thought experiment to imagine how these
demands of the ...
Procurement Weathering The Storm, Experts Claim — February 12, 2009
Procurement professionals are ideally placed to weather the economic
downturn, despite the widespread rise in unemployment hitting other
fields, according to sector experts.
That ‘Buy American’ Provision — February 12, 2009
“Buy American” is a familiar cry in Washington, even though
the vast majority of American economists and policy makers oppose
anything that hints at protectionism. President Obama has said that
“we can’t send a protectionist message,” and the
Senate softened a buy-American provision in the stimulus bill it passed
by stipulating that any government procurement policies comply with
World Trade Organization rules. But business interests argued that the
language favoring American producers should have been removed
altogether.
Upgrading Federal Facilities Would Create Thousands of Jobs, Economist Says — February 12, 2009
Bills in both chambers would allocate several billion dollars for
facilities improvements, although the Senate version stripped $3.5
billion from such programs. The House bill provides $6 billion to the
General Services Administration alone to make federal facilities more
energy efficient, and millions more to the Defense Department and other
agencies for similar improvements.
Stimulus Haste Could Waste Billions, Experts Say — February 10, 2009
Washington - The Obama administration's economic stimulus plan could
end up wasting billions of dollars by attempting to spend money faster
than an overburdened government acquisition system can manage and
oversee it, according to documents and interviews with contracting
specialists.
US Senate To Vote On Softened 'Buy American' Plan — February 10, 2009
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The U.S. Senate planned to vote late Wednesday
on a softened "Buy American" plan as part of its nearly $900 billion
economic stimulus bill, after President Barack Obama expressed concern
the original language could trigger a trade war.
Government Contracting Weekly Returns! — February 6, 2009
NCMA's hit radio program, Government Contracting Weekly, has moved to
our Web site in the form of a podcast. Visit our site weekly for new
installments or receive notifications of new content with our RSS feed.
Government Contracting Weekly features coverage of up-to-the-minute
news items and a plethora of fresh and innovative guests. Listen from
your computer or download the show to your MP3 player!
Commission on Wartime Contracting hears advice from special IG — February 5, 2009
The hearing -- held on Monday in the Caucus Room of the Russell Senate
Building -- featured the release of a 450-plus page report from the
special inspector general for Iraq reconstruction outlining lessons
from past projects that would benefit ongoing work in Afghanistan and
future projects. SIGIR Stuart Bowen was one of four inspectors general
and three lawmakers who testified before the panel, established in
January 2008.
Defense Outlines Change in Acquisition Strategy — February 5, 2009
NEW YORK CITY--The Defense Department plans to dramatically realign its
acquisition strategy, increasing its focus on competition, rebuilding
its procurement workforce and creating more consistent requirements for
contractors in the post-award process.
Lieberman Creates Contracting Oversight Panel — February 5, 2009
Sen. Joe Lieberman (I-Conn.), chairman of the Senate Homeland Security
and Governmental Affairs Committee, has created a subcommittee to
oversee federal contracting. Sen. Claire McCaskill (D-Mo.) will be its
chairwoman.
Membership Chair Receives Fellow Award
The Great Lakes Chapter would like to congratulate our
Chapter Membership Chair, Mr. James N. Phillips, Jr., CFCM,
for being a recipient of the Fellow Award by the NCMA Awards and Honors
Committee in November 2008.
The Fellow Award is recognition by NCMA of the achievements
by those few who have made significant and outstanding contributions to the
contract management discipline. It is the third-highest award that NCMA grants
to its members.
Jim (as we fellow members prefer to call him) has published
several documents relating to the contracts realm. For a listing of his other
publications, click here.
Supply Chain News: If Suppliers are
Struggling Financially, What Should Procurement Organizations Do? - 01/06/2009
The economic downturn continues to manifest itself in many ways, and certainly
one of them is the risk many companies will face in terms of some of their
suppliers being under significant financial pressures.
5 e-Procurement Mistakes to Avoid - 01/06/2009
It's a new year — and with it comes a new chance to avoid making last year's
mistakes. Here are some of the most common implementation blunders made in
regards to e-procurement.
Bid Protests Reach 10-year High - 01/06/2009
Federal contractors filed more bid protests at the Government Accountability
Office during fiscal 2008 than they did any other year in more than a decade,
but many of those cases were mediated by the agencies, making it unnecessary
for GAO to issue a decision.
Connecticut Strengthens "Nation's Toughest Contracting
Law" - 01/05/2009
Connecticut Gov. M. Jodi Rell's Office said that on Jan. 1 the state has added
new provisions to the "nation's toughest contracting laws."
Many Issues Still Unaddressed by Gates - 01/05/2009
The story of Robert Gates's impact in 2008 is incomplete
without acknowledging that there are major issues he must still address.
