Bringing Technology and Innovation to Border Security: The Role of Today’s Contractors

David J. Berteau, President and CEO, PSC

PSC member companies execute diverse contracts across many federal government customers. Their wide range of capabilities provide insight on possible solutions for identifying, procuring, and implementing technology and innovation for border security. 

Both new and legacy technology contracts play essential roles in protecting and securing the border. Done right, these contracts result from government and industry working together toward the common goal of developing and acquiring the capabilities needed for mission success through timely and cost-effective systems and processes. This partnership provides accountability through compliance with federal acquisition rules and regulations, which also foster competition, innovation, and investment in the homeland security marketplace.

Goals for the Government-Contractor Partnership Supporting Technology and Innovation
PSC supports this government-contractor partnership by focusing on three goals:
1. Making the government a smarter customer (knowing what to buy) and a better buyer (knowing how to buy and use it), which leads to improved acquisition outcomes. 

2. Improving contracting procedures to support technology modernization and innovation. Contractors can and do play vital roles in extending the government’s reach, capability, and capacity.

3. Supporting the workforces needed to meet government missions, both within our member companies and for their government customers. Better and more relevant training plays a key role in workforce development and retention. These goals are especially important in border security, where there is a long-standing shortage of trained, experienced personnel. Contractors can assist in developing and delivering this training rapidly and extensively.

Contractors provide the necessary people, equipment, facilities, and support needed throughout the implementation of any strategy. On the border, for example, closing one access point might lead to increased use of another access point, requiring shifts in resources and activities for detection, interdiction, and prevention. 

Technology and innovation can play a big role in adjustment and adaptation, and contractors offer the broadest and deepest source of technology and innovation to help.  

Technology and Innovation
At PSC, we use the words “technology” and “innovation” in combination, focusing on technology solutions and on innovation in systems and processes. Those system and process innovations can change operations, improve data integration, upgrade communications systems and networks, or reduce the time needed for specific actions. Often, technology and innovation go hand in hand, as new technologies may require changes in procedures, updates in training, or new methods of data exchange and communication.

The Efficiency and Effectiveness of the Federal Contractor
In recent years, the government has increasingly called for more innovation, including greater access to commercial private sector companies, even for those with no prior federal government business experience. While this approach is essential, it is not sufficient on its own. The government must also improve its utilization of current contractors to enhance the use of technology and innovation. 

Why is this necessary? Doing business with the federal government differs significantly from commercial markets. Contractors funded by taxpayer dollars are subject to more rigorous rules and regulations. These rules require companies doing business with the federal government to comply with extensive requirements and produce detailed reports on accounting systems, billing processes, employee timekeeping, and proprietary information, far beyond what is needed for commercial business. The government often demands access to contractors' proprietary intellectual property, software code, or trade secrets.

While these compliance requirements support government goals, they often contribute little to the actual delivery of contract results. Purely commercial companies typically lack the systems and processes to certify compliance with government contracting requirements. Non-compliance can lead to severe penalties, including debarment from future government contracts, making these rules a disincentive for commercial companies to compete.  

Existing government contractors, already equipped with these compliance systems, are better positioned to help their government customers identify and implement new technology and innovation. They can work with the government to modify existing contracts, incorporating new technology to deliver better results. Utilizing existing contractors can reduce risks for the government, target new technology and innovation to areas where they will have the greatest impact, and provide improvements without the lengthy process of awarding new contracts.

The bottom line is that the government must improve its use of current contractors, who are already equipped with necessary compliance systems, to enhance the use of technology and innovation, as these contractors are better positioned to navigate rigorous regulations and deliver results efficiently compared to purely commercial companies.

Conclusion 
In today's rapidly evolving technological landscape, the ability to identify, access, and utilize innovations is crucial for maintaining robust security and efficient operations. Effectively implementing technology in border security demands a collaborative effort between the government and contractors. While innovation can arise from multiple sources, its success hinges on practical application and user adoption. 

Contractors today, with their extensive knowledge of missions, user needs, and compliance requirements, are well-equipped to spearhead technological advancements. By harnessing the expertise of both new and established contractors, the government can bolster its capabilities, achieve mission success, and ensure a secure and efficient border security strategy.