ACES is theend-user Services component of NASA’s InformationTechnology (IT) Infrastructure Integration Program (I3P) Program. It provides a consolidated solution fordelivering end-user services across NASA to achieve increased efficiencies andreduce costs though standardization and commonality. Efficiency is balanced with effectiveness in providingthe means to build specialized solutions when mission needs require them. Services provided include computing and mobilebundled seats, Enterprise-wide email, directory and printing services, andperipherals.
Talk aboutthings that scare a CIO, nothing scares a CIO more than transitioning from oneservice provider to another. And Isuppose nothing is scarier than to blog about it just a few short days beforethe risky transition is about to take place. ACES, the $2.2 billion 10-year contract, was awarded to HP EnterpriseServices (HPES) of Herndon, VA. We willtransition from services provided through the ODIN contract and Lockheed MartinInformation Systems and Global Solutions (LMIS&GS).
Both membersof the much-maligned “ITCartel” are up to the task and more than capable of doing the heavy liftingneeded for success. Thank goodness,because as the government seeks to streamline operations, we rely on our contractingcommunity more and more. Developing andnurturing a professional camaraderie is critical to having an ecosystemconducive to meeting government IT challenges.
If all goeswell, this will be one of the biggest non-events since Y2K. If it goes poorly, then the scores oftechnicians and program managers who have worked feverishly over the last fewmonths will kick their contingency planes into gear. This is another example where failure here issimply not an option.
ACES movesus one step closer to addressing one of OMB’stop 25 issues by positioning NASA to enjoy economy of scale relative tocommodity desktop IT. This will also putNASA in a position to securely leverage trends in virtualization and consumer experiences. Morethan that, it gives the mission a way to get technology when they need it sothat they can focus on their specialized challenges.
LindaCureton, NASA CIO