In selecting the right approach or right instrument to pursue innovation and find the pathway to a fielded capability, prize competitions under 10 U.S.C. 2374a are an under-utilized resource. Section 2374a is found in Chapter 139 of Title 10 … Continued
Undersecretary of Defense (A&S) Ellen Lord recently came out with a statement focusing on “trusted investments” in innovative companies that have the potential to contribute to critical missions of interest to the Federal Government. Innovative … Continued
2018 was a particularly rich year for intellectual property in government contracts (and elsewhere). Continuing with our annual theme of focusing on an event or issue, we will address the hot topics of Other Transactions… Other Transactions (“OTs”) or … Continued
The Strategic Institute firmly believes that the Other Transactions (OT) Team is the most important part in a successful OT agreement. The agreement’s success/failure can be directly related to how strongly the team embraces the “spirit” of OTs and … Continued
Other Transactions agreements (OTs) are faster than traditional acquisition. But this is not the “why”. Other Transactions are about experimenting with smart business, teaming and collaborative approaches. Speed is a value-added by-product of doing mission-oriented work. The reality is … Continued
When it comes to who will shape the technological future of the US military, the impact of traditional, large defense contractors shouldn’t be understated. Innovation exists everywhere, regardless of company size. Recent articles, guidance, and interview snippets from policy … Continued
Other Transactions authorities (OTs) are not just a tool, nor are they about process. They are so much more and simpler than that. These authorities are about freedom! Freedom to think, freedom to experiment with different ways of doing … Continued
The Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program was established in the 1980’s. Authorizing legislation is 15 U.S.C. 638. The SBIR program taxes Federal agencies with large R&D outlays a small percentage of their extramural R&D budget for funding. The purpose … Continued
Misinformation about other transactions is legion. Much of the misinformation stems from ignorance or a misinterpretation of OTs grounded in previous experience with traditional procurement contracting. Sometimes misinformation is conveyed by sources that many would assume speak knowledgeably … Continued
The chief problem that the DoD and other acquisition agencies have is not tied to a lack of desire to speed up their business practices. Nor is the problem based in a lack of statutory or regulatory authority that … Continued