Recognizing the need to streamline, simplify, and expedite the A-76 process, Abacus Technology developed several distinct A-76 study support tools:

A-76 Documentation Generation Optimizer (ADGO©):

The primary tool we use to collect and analyze data is a database application we built called the ADGO©.This database application is built upon an expanding tree structure with:

- Pre-defined and custom data fields
- Query screens
- Report generation formats.

The ADGO© is essentially a data warehouse, containing historic PWS-related data from every A-76 study completed by Abacus Technology. This PWS data is categorized by specific service areas (e.g., Communications-Computer/IT, Public Works, Supply, Transportation, Aircraft Maintenance, Mission Support) and can be used to "jumpstart" the data collection efforts for studies of identical or similar activities. Specifically, it facilitates data gathering and compilation, work process analysis, and equipment and facilities assessments.

ADGO© also yields significant cost and time savings in PWS and Quality Assurance Surveillance Plan (QASP) development by structuring and organizing the data from the outset, and provides an added measure of document control by preventing any misplaced/duplicated information. Reports from the database aid greatly in validating the data and in publishing the required supporting documentation.

Virtual Office Concept:

Abacus Technology employs the use of a Virtual Office to facilitate information sharing in support of A-76 studies. This tailorable, web-based information platform permits real-time progress monitoring by key personnel. Through a secure Internet site, approved contractor and government study team members, can review A-76 work products and technical exhibits as they progress. Proven benefits include:

- Readily accessible comments/feedback for appropriate action, incorporation, and management report   generation
- Direct links to all study documentation --
        -- BPR/Six Sigma:  Study Charter, Process Maps, Statistical Controls, Meeting Minutes, etc.
        -- HPOs:  PWS, QASP, Baseline Cost, Reengineering documentation, Projected savings             documentation, Benchmarking results, Nomination Package, etc.
        -- A-76:  Preliminary Planning information, PWS, QASP, TP/CCTP, Agency Tender, MEO, and all             technical exhibits,
- Collaborative work environment, promoting the free flow of information between Abacus Technology   and the government,
- Reduced review times and travel costs,
- Reduces the need for the formal deliver, review, edit, redeliver cycle, since study products can be   viewed and edited daily.

Best Practice and Performance Standard Indexing (BPPSI) Database©:

This database application contains over 2,000 search-by-service BPPSI data points. It allows real-time search, comparison, and injection of commercial best practices/standards into the PWS, QASP, and MEO study documents. Continuous public and private sector research is conducted to keep the database as current as possible. To that end, we also subscribe to several private-sector benchmarking associations (e.g., American Society for Quality, The Benchmarking Exchange).

Manpower, Process, Organizational, and Workload Requirements (ManPOWER) Database:

While collecting workload data (for both the PWS and MEO), the Abacus Technology A-76 team members use our ManPOWER database to gather and enter all workload tasks, frequencies, conversion factors, and per accomplishment times. This information forms the basis for an operational audit (OA) and assists in the development of staffing requirements for the MEO. In addition, our ManPOWER database application automates the use of other measurement techniques such as minimum manning equations, work sampling, man-hour shift profiles, flow procedures charting, and work distribution analysis, as required. This database can incorporate data from a variety of sources and has proven to be an invaluable tool when determining manpower requirements for the new organization. Much of this data is gathered through interviews and questionnaires; physical observations and past experience are also used to address any known impediments to efficiency concerning workflow or facilities/equipment/tools.

Interview Questionnaires:

We have well-tested questionnaires to facilitate the data collection effort. All of our team members have completed facilitation training and are skilled in interview techniques. These questionnaires, in conjunction with a detailed training handout that we provide upfront, are an integral part of our facilitation/education/data collection approach.  For select applications, Abacus employs the use of a web-based questionnaire.  Whether hard copy, electronic, or full web-based, our questions are tailored to fit each individual study to provide you with the most relevant information.

For further information about our Support Services, please contact
Scott Rawls, Commercial Services Management, at 800-488-7654