At a recent conference, I attended a break out session that focused on Organizational Project Management (OPM) and project methodologies, specifically an overall approach to implementing them as a practice standard, and the benefits of doing so. The presenters spoke about today’s increasingly competitive global environment for Government and industry, and how these organizations are …
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Anyone who keeps up with national news is aware of a recent problematic website deployment. Media pundits were quick to blame leadership problems. A noted information technology pundit pointed to acquisition and contracting failures and the government’s inability to “hire” talented contractors. An Inspector General review will undoubtedly identify functional and leadership problems that led …
Continue reading “Requirements Development is Key to Successful Software Development Acquisition”
In this time of tight budgets and mandates to do more or the same with less, the need for innovation through greater communication and cooperation is greater than ever. The intelligent use of Integrated Product Teams (IPTs) that foster an organizational climate of cross-functional collaboration can drive innovation throughout your processes. This is accomplished by …
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It’s a commonly-used process, and yet so few manage to execute it effectively on a consistent basis. Capital Planning Investment Control (CPIC), if performed as intended, provides a strategy for capital planning that enables organizations to demonstrate and maximize value from scarce public resources. With the current funding environment, CPIC is ever-more important as a …
A new trend in acquisition – applying the modular method of “Agile” software development using daily meetings and lessons learned – is more productive than acquisition support done the “old way” because it utilizes necessary resources when and where they are required. Agile methodology applied to acquisition support is an increasingly preferred technique among Government …
Continue reading “Applying Agile Methodologies to Acquisition Support – The Benefits (Part II)”
Increasingly in today’s economic climate, Agile methodologies are the answer to the Government’s constant search for ways to do more with less. In its July 2012 report, “Effective Practices and Federal Challenges in Applying Agile Methods,” the Government Accountability Office (GAO) recognized that a growing number of federal agencies are using Agile techniques to develop …
Continue reading “Applying Agile Methodologies to Acquisition Support – The Basics”
Integrity Management Consulting and GovLoop collaborated on a 12-part series called “Conscientious Contracting: A Thoughtful Approach to Acquisition and Program Management,” as well as a 25-page acquisition guide. Both feature the expertise of acquisition professionals and Integrity subject matter experts. GovLoop’s Andrew Krzmarzick, writes about making Lessons Learned a critical part of your organization’s success. In our 25-page guide titled, “Addressing …
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As customers we expect high quality. It’s an expectation we should all keep in mind when the tables are turned and we’re providing a product or service. High quality equals higher customer satisfaction and a greater chance of continued partnership. In Part I of my blog on Effective Quality Control to Support Your Customer, I …
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When you decide to purchase a certain product or pay for a needed service, it is your expectation that you will receive something of value and of good quality. When quality is not up to par, think about how it makes you feel. I have been places where my first visit was my last due …
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With the recent uncertainty over further sequestration and a possible second government shutdown, many agencies and components of the federal government have been asked to identify those procurement actions that are critical and have the potential to cause major operational dysfunction if delayed. While this drill is important, it’s also a reminder that procurement …
Continue reading “Procurement Planning – An Important Spoke in the Wheel”
