Clara Conti

Heads Up...DoD News related to Architect - Engineering (AE) Services! (1) FINAL RULE Effective 8/26/2024 - DFARS Case 2024-D019 Architect and Engineering Service Fees. This rule changes DFARS to implement Section 2881 of the FY24 NDAA to increase the limitation of the contract price (i.e., "fee") for A-E services for the preparation and delivery of designs, plans, drawings, and specifications from 6% of the project's estimated construction cost to 10%. It is applicable to Army, Navy, and Air Force projects (references in 10 U.S.C. 7540,8612, and 9540). The new 10% limit replaces the 6% fee limitation on contract modifications for work not initially included in the contract and redesign, and applies only to that portion of the contract (or modification) price attributable to the preparation of designs, plans, drawings, and specifications. If a contract or modification also includes other services, the part of the price attributable to the other services is not subject to the fee limitation. (Personally, I've been waiting since the early 1990's for this percentage to change (and yes, I've been doing this THAT long). This makes it easier for small AE businesses to participate in the Federal space. So, YEA!) Permalink: https://lnkd.in/g7vF95R6 (2) PROPOSED RULE Comments due 9/27/2024 -- DFARS Case 2023-D007 Task Order and Delivery Order Contracting for Architectural and Engineering Services. This rules proposes a corresponding change to DFARS Subpart 216.5, Indefinite-Delivery Contracts, to require DoD Contracting Officers (KOs) to use qualification-based selections when awarding task orders and delivery orders for AE services that was previously implemented procedurally under FAR Subparts 16.500, 16.505, and 36.6 procedures in 2005 under the final rule for FAR Case 2004-001 Improvements in Contracting for Architect-Engineer Services. This proposed rule adds DoD-specific statutory guidance (10 U.S.C. 3406(h)(2)) to DFARS directing KOs not to request additional info regarding qualifications unless necessary to determine qualifications for a particular task order or delivery order under a multiple-award contract. There should be little to no impact from this proposed rule since there are no procedural changes, new clauses or provisions, and no new applicability in terms of thresholds or types of contracts. Permalink: https://lnkd.in/gwh2_38J

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What an exciting series with big names and big topics! #GovernmentContracting #APEXAccelerator #BIGTECH #GovCon

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The FY2024 NDAA And Its Nexus To The FAR And DFARS 📰 The Fiscal Year 2024 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) impacts federal acquisition regulations through Title VIII, focusing on acquisition policy and management. Changes proposed in the NDAA are integrated into the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) and Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS) by the Civilian Agency Acquisition Council (CAAC) and the Defense Acquisition Regulations Council (DARC). The Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs (OIRA) reviews proposed regulations for consistency with administration policies and cost-effectiveness. The rulemaking process involves public comments, leading to interim or final regulations published in the Federal Register, with deviations allowing agencies flexibility in unique procurement situations. Read the entire article here: https://lnkd.in/eDHUigr9

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At Presidio Federal, we understand the importance IT plays in enabling mission-critical outcomes. As September 30th approaches, marking the federal fiscal year-end, let’s dive into some key ways we can support your agency. 💡↪️Discover more at https://lnkd.in/gCS-Zpsq #federalit #it #ffye #support #partnership

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Are you in the #military? Want to do Operational Planning in one tenth the time? Come check out the Operational Planner chatbot. Any organization interested in a competition to identify the 100x staff officer using the tool? The Digital Insurgency is going to run the following webinars. If you want your own presentation for you or your organization: 1. How to build out an operational design and scenarios in 15 minutes. 2. How do you capture lessons learnt through recording discussions and incorporate them into a pre-after action review. 3. How do write out a warning order in 15 minutes. https://lnkd.in/ebStQt7f

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Does the potential rigidity of the IRM&CM process (AJP 2.7) apply to rapidly changing battlespaces? Contemporary warfare demands immediate responsiveness and flexibility, posing challenges to traditional ISR workflows that may take days or weeks to develop. To address this, here are some key actions to enhance ISR capabilities: - **Real-Time Adjustments**: Incorporate mechanisms for real-time adjustments within the IRM&CM process to quickly revise collection plans and re-task ISR assets based on immediate operational needs and intelligence updates. - **Shorter Planning Cycles**: Implement shorter, iterative planning cycles for more frequent updates and revisions to the collection plan. - **Leveraging Advanced Technologies**: Utilize AI, machine learning algorithms, and automation to process data quickly, identify patterns, and provide actionable intelligence in near real-time. Other strategies include empowering field units, establishing forward-deployed ISR cells, investing in real-time communication networks, utilizing integrated command and control systems, and deploying flexible ISR platforms. Additionally, conducting frequent training exercises and scenario-based simulations are vital to prepare ISR personnel for dynamic environments. While the traditional IRM&CM process offers a structured approach to ISR operations, adapting it to the fast-paced nature of contemporary warfare is crucial. These measures can enhance NATO's ISR capabilities, ensuring better support for rapidly changing battlespaces.

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It is imperative for the Pentagon to capitalize on the Olympus program's potential to revolutionize defense cloud capabilities. In the short term, the focus should be on refining the self-managed platform, streamlining onboarding processes, and gathering feedback from beta users to ensure a robust and user-friendly experience. Simultaneously, efforts must be made to expand the platform's capabilities to meet evolving mission requirements and to integrate with various cloud service providers to maximize flexibility and accessibility. In the long term, the Pentagon should prioritize transitioning Olympus out of beta and into full deployment, leveraging automation to enhance efficiency and scalability. This presents an unparalleled opportunity for industry partners to collaborate with the DoD in shaping the future of cloud computing for national security, offering innovative solutions to address emerging challenges and optimize mission effectiveness. As we embrace these initiatives, CRG stands ready to assist industry partners in implementing cutting-edge technologies and fostering a resilient cybersecurity posture that safeguards national interests. From Capture to Contract Close-out, our SMEs and BD/Capture, B&P, Pricing and Strategy teams remain unmatched. Visit https://crgroupinc.com/ or reach out to us at contact@crgroupinc.com to explore how CRG can empower your organization to thrive in this dynamic landscape. #USG #USMIL #DoD #FedAgencies #PrivateSector #Cloud #CloudServices #GovernmentContracts #DefenseTech #CyberSecurity #Innovation #TechSolutions #SmallBusiness #FederalContracting #GovernmentContracts #GovTech #MilitaryTechnology #BusinessDevelopment #SmallBiz #DefenseIndustry #GovernmentProcurement #ContractOpportunities #GovCon #VeteranOwned #SmallDisadvantagedBusiness #EmergingTech #FederalAcquisitions#DIB #ANC #ISBEE #IEEE #8a #SDVOSB #VOSB #Google #AWS #Microsoft #Oracle #AmazonWebServices #MicrosoftAzure #GoogleCloud #IBMCloud #OracleCloud #AlibabaCloud #Salesforce #VMware #Cisco #DellEMC #HPE #RedHat #Symantec #PaloAltoNetworks #Fortinet #CheckPoint #JuniperNetworks #Splunk #CrowdStrike #FireEye

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The Sentinel ICBM program's cost overruns highlight the need for integrated acquisition strategies that address both missile systems & infrastructure. CRG provides expertise in navigating these complex landscapes, aligning strategies with compliance & engaging stakeholders to ensure clients lead in delivering innovative, cost-effective defense solutions. CRG’s SME-Based Opportunities, INTERIM Advice & Differentiators: Opp - Holistic Acquisition Strategies: Prioritize a balanced approach that integrates missile systems w/ critical infrastructure. · Advice: Use digital engineering tools to simulate full system lifecycles, identifying cost drivers early. · Differentiator: CRG’s lifecycle cost analysis helps clients foresee risks, optimizing missile & infrastructure components. Opp - Open Competition for Infrastructure: Encourage competitive sourcing for infrastructure to drive innovation & cost reductions. · Advice: Advocate for modular design principles & open competition strategies for ground elements. ·   Differentiator: CRG connects clients with top-tier SMEs & suppliers for cost-effective, modular solutions. Opp - Agile Contracting Models: Use agile contracting to adapt to evolving program requirements. ·   Advice: Employ OTAs & phased contracts to incorporate new tech flexibly. ·   Differentiator: CRG’s contracting expertise balances innovation w/ compliance, speeding up project timelines. Opp - Advanced Cost Management: Employ predictive analytics for proactive cost control. ·   Advice: Use AI-driven forecasting to continuously monitor expenses & identify savings opportunities. ·   Differentiator: CRG’s cost optimization strategies ensure clients manage budgets effectively, avoiding overruns. Opp - Digital Twins Integration: Utilize digital twin tech for real-time insights into system performance. · Advice: Invest in digital twins for predictive maintenance & proactive lifecycle management. · Differentiator: CRG’s digital twin integration enhances system reliability & readiness. Opp - Collaborative Engineering: Foster government-industry collaboration to refine designs & address challenges. · Advice: Form IPTs to refine designs & address technical issues iteratively. ·   Differentiator: CRG’s collaborative approach ensures efficient, unified program outcomes. CRG’s expertise positions us as the partner of choice for defense contractors aiming to lead in the program. Engage with CRG to leverage these opportunities and drive your success in advancing national security. Connect at crgroupinc.com or contact@crgroupinc.com. #USAF #AirForce #DoD #Acquisition #MissileDefense #ICBM #CostManagement #InnovationInDefense #Engineering #Hardware #SDLC #Software #Procurement #NorthropGrumman #Boeing #LockheedMartin #Raytheon #GeneralDynamics #BAE #L3Harris #Leidos #Aerojet #Honeywell #Parsons #OrbitalATK #Kratos #Textron #Dynetics #SierraNevada #Teledyne #SAIC #Perspecta #JacobsEngineering #Bechtel #GeneralAtomics #CACI #ManTech #HII

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A few things to digest here: 1. Thank you Robert Metzger for volunteering all of your time to help make things happen. 2. A tax rebate or reduction is only available AFTER the fact, so that's not going to help much at all. Small businesses live or die on cash flow. 3. Any kind of loan - with interest - doesn't help the business, it just puts it further in debt. 4. Even if a business goes through with all of this, there is NO GUARANTEE they will ever win or renew a DiB contract. Ideas: Why not just have the government front the cost, and then deduct it from the payment? This would incentivize the government and prime contractors to use many different sub-contractors. Why not just use DIBCAC assessors to do the third party attestations? There is no training necessary.

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Though there are numerous technologies agencies can use to transform US intelligence operations, the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) has identified five that could specifically benefit the intelligence commuity mission. 🗞 Read the full article to find out more: https://lnkd.in/gVKgwVPw __ #CSIS #News #IC #IntelligenceCommunity

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#DCSA announced today that the Agency’s National Background Investigation Services (NBIS) Program Management Office is releasing its product roadmap to customers and stakeholders in the Defense industry and across the U.S. federal government. The #NBIS product roadmap will better assist NBIS customer agencies in planning their transition to use of the system for personnel vetting requirements outlined in federal Trusted Workforce 2.0 (TW 2.0) policy. NBIS is the IT system enabling the end-to-end personnel vetting process and is critical to TW 2.0, the whole-of-government effort aiming to better support the federal government and cleared industry. TW 2.0 implementation across the federal government will reduce the time required to bring new hires onboard, enable mobility of the federal workforce, and improve insight into workforce behaviors. “The product roadmap outlines the plan for the release, testing, and operationalization of products and services to DCSA customers and stakeholders. The included products and services were validated against the NBIS capability needs statement, a foundational document that supports personnel vetting reform initiatives under TW 2.0. NBIS is crucial to realizing the TW 2.0 vision for the federal government—the product roadmap informs the milestones and metrics published in the Trusted Workforce quarterly progress report,” said Robert Schadey, DCSA NBIS Executive Program Manager. Read the update here: https://lnkd.in/etKJgnxk

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DISA continues to innovate and enhance security measures with #AI and #Analytics to protect the DoD's missions and defend their networks. Lt. Gen. Robert Skinner emphasized strategic alignment and stressed the role of partnerships, talent, and innovation in staying operationally ready and maintaining a positional edge. Together with DISA, Leidos is delivering resilient and flexible IT capabilities at scale and speed to connect and protect the warfighter. Read more about the insights that were shared at AFCEA's TechNet Cyber 2024 here: https://bit.ly/3VYPxH0 #Innovation #CyberSecurity

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The acquisition, technology and logistics arm of U.S. Special Operations Command is seeking micro drones that could be launched from a variety of platforms and operate in multiple domains — including in the air and underwater. A special notice released Thursday told industry that SOCOM’s program management office for remote capabilities is requesting feedback to help identify Group 1 uncrewed aerial systems that could be evaluated next year. https://lnkd.in/endSnk7j

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The acquisition, technology and logistics arm of U.S. Special Operations Command is seeking micro drones that could be launched from a variety of platforms and operate in multiple domains — including in the air and underwater. A special notice released Thursday told industry that SOCOM’s program management office for remote capabilities is requesting feedback to help identify Group 1 uncrewed aerial systems that could be evaluated next year. https://lnkd.in/eNbeQRKR

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US Navy awards Lockheed Martin Rotary and Mission Systems contract for AEGIS vertical launch systems support services. Read more: https://lnkd.in/eK7ytBiw ___ #ContractAwards #DOD #GovCon

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In engaging our rapidly evolving global security landscape, collaboration and partnership are essential pillars in bolstering defense industry capabilities and meeting warfighting needs. As underscored by Bill LaPlante, the undersecretary of defense for acquisition and sustainment, in his recent testimony before the Senate Appropriations Committee's Defense Subcommittee, the war in Ukraine has brought to light the critical importance of countries coming together to produce key munitions. This initiative not only strengthens the defense industrial base but also enhances deterrence capabilities on a global scale. Moving forward, the DoD is prepared to embark on an innovative roadmap of co-production, co-development, and co-sustainment with allies and partners. Milestones on this roadmap include plans to co-produce Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System and Precision Strike Missile munitions with key allies, as well as partnering with Japan on the development and production of the next generation of missile defense interceptors. These strategic collaborations foster interoperability as well as ensure the rapid fielding of essential capabilities to the warfighter. Industry plays a pivotal role in this endeavor, with opportunities abound for collaboration and contribution. As the DoD shifts towards a more agile acquisition approach, industry partners are invited to leverage their expertise and capabilities to support the co-production and development efforts outlined by LaPlante. From manufacturing key munitions to providing innovative solutions for sustainment and logistics, industry stakeholders have a unique opportunity to contribute to the collective defense efforts of the United States and its allies. At CRG, we understand the importance of strategic partnerships and effective acquisition pathways in meeting the evolving needs of the warfighter. Our seasoned SMEs and dedicated teams stand ready to assist industry clients in navigating the complexities of defense acquisition, from capturing requirements to delivering cutting-edge solutions. Whether it's winning contracts, optimizing production capabilities, or ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements, CRG is here to guide you every step of the way. Visit https://crgroupinc.com/ or reach out to us at contact@crgroupinc.com to learn more about how CRG can empower your organization. #DefensePartnerships #GlobalSecurity #DefenseIndustry #DIB #GovCons #DefenseAcquisition #MilitaryCollaboration #InternationalAllies #USMIL #GlobalDefense #GovernmentContractors #DefenseSolutions #DoD #DefenseTechnology #DefenseIntegration #MilitaryCapabilities #DSCA #NationalSecurity #DefenseCollaboration #StrategicPartnerships #InternationalDefense #MilitaryAlliances #DefenseCooperation #DefenseManufacturing #DefenseSupplyChain #GlobalManufacturing #DefenseProduction #DefenseValueChain #InternationalSupplyChain #GlobalIndustrialPartnerships #DefenseTechCollaboration

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In this article, SolarWinds GVP of Engineering Krishna Sai explores how AI, ML, and observability can help SOCOM and other DoD agencies achieve a multi-domain infrastructure that is interoperable, dependable, transparent, secure, and high performing. Read more in C4ISRNET here: https://bit.ly/3VZypTk

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