Analysis of General Accounting Office bid protest decisions on A-76 studies

Abstract

The Department of Defense continues to aggressively pursue A-76 competitive sourcing targets set by the Office of Management and Budget. As more A-76 acquisitions are processed, it is imperative that these studies are conducted fairly and efficiently. Legal challenges to A-76 actions disrupt the process and have a negative impact on the organizations and people undergoing study. Historically, industry has successfully protested a high percentage of A-76 procurements. This thesis examines General Accounting Office A-76 bid protest decisions issued between 5 February 1996 and 23 December 2002. The cases and protest issues are analyzed to determine the reasons that A-76 protests were lodged, and the reasons that A-76 protests were lost by the Government. The thesis identifies common themes, trends, and key issues, and draws conclusions based on that information. Recommendations for A-76 process improvements are developed and provided. It is the researcher's hope that this thesis will be of benefit to A-76 personnel, particularly to Government acquisition personnel responsible for conducting A-76 competitions in the future.