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Quarterly ITVMO Newsletter

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ITVMO Newsletter Q3 FY2024

ITVMO 2024 Summit Recap: A Resounding Success in Revolutionizing Government Acquisitions

The 2024 ITVMO Summit, focused on "Revolutionizing Government Acquisitions through Digital Transformation," was a resounding success, with record-breaking attendance and overwhelmingly positive feedback. The event brought together nearly 200 government and industry professionals for insightful discussions and networking opportunities.

Key highlights included keynote speeches from influential figures like Jason Miller Deputy Director for Management, Office of Management and Budget, Christine Harada (Senior Advisor, Office of Federal Procurement Policy), and Jeff Koses (Senior Procurement Executive - General Services Administration), as well as engaging panel discussions on emerging technologies, procurement practices, and the importance of partnerships. Attendees also had the chance to connect with government-wide partners and access a comprehensive suite of ITVMO resources.

Feedback from participants was overwhelmingly positive, with 100% rating the event as very good or excellent and expressing a desire to attend again next year. The networking sessions and speaker presentations were particularly valued, and suggestions for future improvements included more breakout groups and a longer event.

The summit's success underscores its importance as a platform for collaboration and knowledge sharing in the federal IT marketplace and the ITVMO is excited to continue playing its role in driving innovation and efficiency in government acquisitions. For more information and resource visit: the Summit Resource Page</a >

ITVMO Hackathon

The ITVMO is hosting a Procurement Hackathon to spark innovation, identify new approaches, and engage government and industry practitioners in addressing federal IT marketplace procurement challenges. The ITVMO Procurement Hackathon is modeled after traditional hackathons focusing on solving procurement challenges.

Through this 1-day virtual workshop, participants from government and industry will collaborate to identify and work through procurement challenges using their expertise and experience on both sides of the procurement process. Participants will then have the opportunity to present their findings to an audience of other practitioners, experts, and a VIP panel.

The ITVMO Procurement Hackathon will help solve procurement challenges by:

  • Bringing together diverse teams, mixed government and industry (50:50) to generate new ideas and approaches to tackle long-standing procurement challenges.
  • Encouraging collaboration between procurement professionals, subject matter experts, and business development practitioners, fostering knowledge sharing and cross-marketplace problem-solving.
  • Boosting marketplace engagement and cross-governmental collaboration. It will help to showcase the talents and skills of government and industry, contribute to solving real-world problems, and feel more invested in the marketplaces’ success.

Background

The role of IT is shifting from end-user service to a more holistic, change-making offering. One priority in leading successful digital transformation is strengthening the partnership between government and industry. With limited budgets and resources, we must determine what to prioritize first. We need to use a whole-of-government approach to help find ways to strengthen, accelerate, and/or streamline critical procurement processes like the Request for Information (RFI) and Request for Proposal (RFP) processes.

Why Prioritize Transformation of the RFI/RFP Process:

  • Effectiveness - Creating better alignment with agency mission needs by clearly defining desired outcomes in the RFI/RFP. Creating clearer communication and evaluation processes reduces the risk of misunderstandings and project failures associated with poorly defined requirements.
  • Quality - Developing and communicating objective evaluation criteria to ensure all proposals are assessed fairly and consistently. Leveraging technology for tasks like standardized terms and conditions and process workflows.
  • Efficiency - Streamlining processes can help to improve clarity and understanding. In modernizing the RFI/RFP processes we can facilitate better communication and collaboration between agencies and vendors. This can lead to a clearer understanding of needs, resulting in more targeted proposals and ultimately, better outcomes.

The Hackathon is championed by the Government-wide IT Category Manager, and the Office of Governmentwide Acquisition Policy. Their support underscores the importance of this event and its potential to reshape federal IT procurement. Register today and be part of the solution! Together, we can drive innovation, improve efficiency, and deliver better results for government agencies and the American people.

ITVMO Spearheads Initiatives to Boost Equity and Diversity in Federal IT Software Reseller Marketplace

The Information Technology Vendor Management Office (ITVMO) is taking significant strides to promote equity and diversity within the federal IT software reseller marketplace. By addressing barriers to entry and growth for small and Small Disadvantaged Businesses (SDBs), the ITVMO aims to create a more inclusive and competitive landscape.

Understanding the Challenges

This approach includes a comprehensive assessment of the existing barriers to entry and growth for small businesses, inclusive of all socio-economic statuses. Through a recently completed Request for Information (RFI) and ongoing information-gathering sessions with key stakeholders, the ITVMO is collecting valuable insights into the specific obstacles faced by these businesses. This information will be instrumental in shaping targeted initiatives aimed at leveling the playing field and ensuring that all businesses have a fair opportunity to participate in the federal IT marketplace.

Improving Small Business Utilization

The ITVMO is actively collaborating with federal agencies to increase the utilization of small businesses, inclusive of all socio-economic statuses in IT procurement.

Through data-driven analysis and strategic guidance, the ITVMO is working hand-in-hand with federal agencies to make IT procurement more accessible for small businesses overall

This collaborative effort aims to enhance agencies' Spend Under Management (SUM) and Small Business Utilization Key Performance Indicators (KPIs). By leveraging the ITVMO's expertise and resources, agencies can more effectively engage with small vendors, fostering a more diverse and competitive IT marketplace. This initiative not only supports the growth and success of small businesses but also ensures that federal agencies benefit from the innovation and agility they bring to the table. By partnering with agencies, the ITVMO is helping to create a more equitable and prosperous future for all stakeholders involved in government IT procurement.

In addition, the ITVMO is exploring avenues to amplify small business utilization within the IT Government-wide Category’s 13 IT Best-in-Class (BIC) contract solutions. This includes partnering with ACT-IAC on an FY25 IT Government-wide Category Forum scheduled for October 2024, see below.

A Commitment to a More Equitable Future

The ITVMO's multifaceted approach demonstrates its commitment to fostering a more equitable and diverse federal IT software reseller marketplace. By understanding the challenges, improving utilization, and expanding opportunities, the ITVMO is paving the way for a more inclusive environment where all businesses can thrive.

To schedule a consultation or learn more about the acquisition equity initiatives, contact the ITVMO at Gov-wide ITVMO

Unlocking the Power of Best-In-Class (BIC) IT Procurement: Your Guide to Streamlined Solutions

The IT Government-wide Category contains a select group of Best-in-Class (BIC) contract vehicles, recognized for their exceptional value and efficiency in procuring IT products and services. These BIC contracts undergo rigorous evaluation and meet stringent criteria set by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), ensuring they adhere to best practices in areas such as contract duplication reduction, leveraging government buying power, and providing transparency.

These pre-vetted contract solutions offer:

  • Pre-negotiated terms and conditions: Saving you time and resources.
  • Access to a wide range of IT solutions: Ensuring you find the right fit for your needs.
  • Compliance with federal regulations: Simplifying risk management.

BIC vehicles offer several compelling advantages for both government agencies and industry partners:

  • Government: Streamlined procurement, reduced administrative burden, and increased compliance.
  • Industry: Access to a wider customer base, reduced marketing costs, and simplified contracting processes.

The BIC Buying Wave initiative recognizes that each Best-In-Class (BIC) contract offers unique features and advantages tailored to specific IT needs. To help you easily identify the right fit for your requirements, we have distilled key information into concise "window stickers." These at-a-glance summaries highlight metrics such as sustainability compliance, security compliance, and small business accessibility for each BIC vehicle, empowering you to make informed decisions that align with your organization's priorities and government mandates.

The ITVMO is excited to showcase 13 Best-in-Class (BIC) vehicles available right now to aid in your procurement efforts. The following at-a-glance resources provide a high-level overview of the uses and benefits of each BIC vehicle, as well as links to more information. For additional information, please reach out to the ITVMO at Gov-wide ITVMO

IT Government-wide Category Forum in October

The ITVMO and Information Technology (IT) Category, in collaboration with ACT-IAC, is pleased to announce the in-person IT Government-wide Category Forum in October 2024. Whether you're an agency buyer seeking efficient procurement solutions or a small business aiming to expand your federal footprint.

Here’s some of what attendees can expect:

  • Dive Deep into Category Management: Gain a comprehensive understanding of the category management framework and its guiding principles, unlocking new strategies for optimizing your IT acquisitions.
  • Stay Ahead of the Curve: Explore emerging IT acquisition priorities, identify lucrative opportunities, and access valuable resources designed to support agency buyers and small businesses in the government IT market.
  • Network with the Best: Engage with a diverse group of industry leaders, including agency buyers, IT solution providers, government-wide programs, BIC contract holders, vendors, small businesses, and public-private partnerships.
  • Unlock the Power of BIC: Meet with IT BIC contract representatives to discover the unique advantages of IT BIC solutions and how they can meet your agency's specific contracting needs.
  • Learn from the Experts: Participate in insightful panel discussions, expert talks, and numerous networking opportunities to expand your knowledge and build valuable connections.

While the exact location is still being finalized, we encourage you to mark your calendars for the week of October 14th, 2024. Stay tuned for more exciting details, including the agenda, speakers, and registration information.

Meet the ITVMO Team

Introducing: Heather Stier

Heather Stier image

Ms. Heather Stier's career is marked by her unwavering dedication to improving federal IT procurement and strategic planning. Starting in 2008 at the Department of State as a contractor she focused on enterprise-wide IT Budget Management, Capital Planning, and IT Strategy Planning. In 2013, Heather transitioned to a civil servant role, continuing her work at the State Department with a primary emphasis on IT Strategic Planning and Budget Management.

In 2014, Heather’s career shifted significantly when she was appointed the Contracting Officer Representative for over ten of the Department's enterprise IT contracts.

Since then, she has held a diverse range of roles, including IT Specialist and Special Advisor to Leadership on Strategic Software Acquisitions, earning numerous certifications, including FAC-COR Level III, FAC-P/PM Senior, and FAC/P/PM IT, along the way.

Heather’s extensive experience led her to the IT Vendor Management Office (ITVMO), where she now serves as the IT Acquisition and Vendor Senior Advisor. In this role, she leverages her expertise in Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), Vendor Management, Contract Negotiations, Enterprise-wide procurement, and Project Management to advocate for government-wide acquisition strategies, enhancing efficiency in software procurements across the federal landscape. A cause to which she is deeply committed

Heather balances her professional life with personal interests, including her long-standing passion for gaming, a hobby she has cherished since the early 80s. She is actively involved in local feline rescues, often adopting and fostering furry companions, and enjoys traveling, hiking, small rock climbing at local state parks, and participating in escape rooms with her fiance.

For more on the ITVMO visit ITVMO.gsa.gov or email us at ITVMO@gsa.gov and be sure to follow us on LinkedIn.

On this Page

ITVMO Annual Summit Recap ITVMO Hackathon ITVMO Spearheads Initiatives to Boost Equity and Diversity in Federal IT Software Reseller Marketplace Unlocking the Power of Best-In-Class (BIC) IT Procurement: Your Guide to Streamlined Solutions IT Government-wide Category Forum in October Meet the ITVMO Team

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