OAS Insights 5.0 - Work Package
Scope
Our vertical approach to contracting, task order management, and integrating work packages within the United States Navy provides users with instant, real-time capabilities for building, maintaining, and modernizing the Navy Fleet. In the work scope description below, we emphasize the critical need for all these functions to operate in harmony. When these elements work together as part of a unified solution, the benefits are substantial, resulting in the most effective processes worldwide. This approach enables users to collaborate interactively with the hundreds of personnel involved in complex builds and maintenance tasks.
With the combined capabilities of OAS and OCCM, we can seamlessly integrate all necessary data elements and provide senior managers with simultaneous access to critical components, such as Scope. This not only accelerates the process but also eliminates costly problems and delays that can arise with current methods.
Please refer to our previous insights that explain how the vertical approach encompasses all aspects of shipbuilding, maintenance, and modernization, including work packages and their critical component: Scope. The interconnectedness of these elements drives cost savings, improved efficiencies, and ultimately enhances Fleet Readiness.
OAS Insights 5.1 - Work Package
Importance of Defining Work Scope in the Change Management Process
The foundation for privately contracted surface ship maintenance and modernization efforts lies in well-defined specifications that clearly outline the expected outcomes. The adequacy of these specifications is crucial not only during the availability planning and solicitation process but also throughout the contract change management process. These specifications serve as statements of work or performance work statements, enabling both the contractor and the government to establish a common understanding. Additionally, they provide the basis for quantifying costs and other considerations. In the case of supplemental agreements or bilateral changes, a lack of shared understanding regarding the work scope makes it challenging for both parties to evaluate the technical merits of a proposed change, determine if the cost is reasonable, and assess whether it serves the best interests of all parties involved.
During the execution stage of availability, these specifications are organized into work items, which are then compiled into a "Work Package." It is essential for both parties to grasp the scope of any proposed change as soon as possible. Every change requires evaluation by multiple stakeholders to determine, among other things, whether the price of the change is reasonable, if the budget is available to fund the work, and whether deviations from the specifications align with the ultimate objective of the work item. Depending on the complexity, proposed cost, and schedule impacts, the change process can be lengthy, taking anywhere from a day to over a month. Therefore, it is prudent for all parties to avoid introducing unnecessary delays, particularly when defining the work scope.
OCCM supports the concurrent prioritization of different change proposals, allowing stakeholders to proceed with the change management process while providing additional time to review complex proposals. The quicker a change is approved, conforms to the contract, and the contractor receives authorization to proceed from the cognizant Administrative Contracting Officer, the less impact it will have on the Availability schedule.