Return
to the "POINTER VIEW"October 25, 2002
Return
to the "POINTER VIEW"
October
25, 2002
Knowledge is power
Commentary by Irene Brown
Editor
By now most federal employees are familiar with the terms outsourcing, privatization and A-76.
Most workers are aware that their jobs could be at risk in this new environment and should be asking the following questions: How can I be competitive? How can I save my job? What happens if a reduction in force occurs?
Throughout the Department of Defense, downsizing has taken its toll on employee morale and, at the U.S. Military Academy, many workers have found their functions labeled "commercial in nature." So, with CA studies ongoing and planned for the future here, now is the time for everyone to familiarize themselves with the process.
The first step is the actual commercial activity study, which includes preparation of the performance work statement. Next comes the restructuring of the function into the most efficient organization, the solicitation of bids from outside contractors and the announcement of who won: contractor or government.
An important point to remember in this process is that even if your function wins the competition, your job could be at risk with the implementation of the MEO. The best thing to do is be prepared for whatever might happen as a result of the A-76 process. The following are some suggestions for arming yourself for the A-76 battle and beyond:
- Knowledge is half the
battle
Strive to become experts in the A-76 process. The Internet offers a vast array
of information about outsourcing and competition.
- Attend the briefings and read any and all articles published about the ongoing commercial activity studies here at West Point. Even if your function is not currently involved in a study, follow the process of the functions that are. This will help you better understand the CA process before your function is announced.
CA WHAT?
Editor’s note: This column is for employee questions about studies here at West Point.
Submit questions via E-mail (yi9121@usma.edu) or call 938-3883. Directorate of Resource Management officials will answer all questions submitted.
Q: Why is the Army doing A-76 studies?
A: Both the Committee on Roles and Missions and the Quadrennial Defense Review recommended competitive sourcing as a means to reduce the cost of our support structure and provide funding for force modernization.
Q: What is the cost of an A-76 study and is this cost added to the contractor’s proposed price.
A: Research has shown that the average cost of a competitive sourcing study is approximately $4,000 per space. The cost of conducting a study is associated with both the government bid as well as the contractor’s bid.