If Ghostbusters can get a reboot, why not Mythbusters?

The 1980s smash hit movie “Ghostbusters” has a new reboot.  It’s a popular story that entertains multiple generations.  This got me thinking that the federal government’s “Mythbusters” campaign deserves its own reboot. 

While it may not be as entertaining as its Hollywood counterpart, educating the acquisition workforce and reminding long-time workers of its important message could have similarly positive economic benefits.

Mythbusters is all about improving communication and efficiency in acquisition.  In multiple memos originating in 2011 the Office of Management and Budget sought to remind acquisition officials that, not only is it ok to speak with industry, but regular communication is encouraged, even in the FAR.

The statement “The Government must not hesitate to communicate with the commercial sector as early as possible in the acquisition cycle to help the Government determine the capabilities available in the commercial marketplace” comes straight from the regulations, not an industry white paper. 

Yet, contractors today often find that federal acquisition officials are hesitant to communicate, even when the rules are clear that they can. The Mythbusters memo issued in February 2011 states “Government officials generally can meet one-on-one with potential offerors so long as no vendor receives preferential treatment.”  Too many contracting specialists and contracting officers, however, believe that any communication with a single contractor may give that company an undue advantage.  I have even experienced a contracting officer who refused to speak with industry about a draft RFP.

While ensuring a level playing field is important so, too, is ensuring that the government issues RFP’s or RFQ’s based on the latest commercial market developments. This drives better acquisition outcomes, including increased competition and innovation.  It’s unlikely that CO’s have that information unless they actually speak with the private sector. 

Another Mythbuster memo specifically sites the need to go beyond written RFI’s and RFI responses and acknowledge that there can be value from product and solution demonstrations.  OMB points out that limiting communications to written form decreases the likelihood that acquisition professionals will obtain all of the relevant information they need to conduct a good acquisition.  OMB states, “(t)his type of pre-solicitation engagement can improve cost savings, increase competition, promote small business participation, and help define technical requirements.”

The series of Mythbuster memos covers more than acceptable communications scenarios.  Some point to the importance of maintaining the security of a company’s proprietary information and why providing robust post-award debriefings is a best practice. The memos even go so far as to direct acquisition professionals to look beyond data-driven tools such as past performance evaluations. 

An OMB Mythbusters memo issued April 30, 2019, states, “Aside from the PPIRS ratings, source selection panelists can assess and document vendor performance from numerous sources, including (but not limited to): previous contracting officers, news media, reliable commercial sources of performance information, state and local governments, and other references.” 

This is an important example of how automated tools should, and should not be, used in the acquisition process.  No tool should be a substitute for a contracting officer’s discretion. 

Industry is not the equivalent of the “Stay Puft Marshmallow Man.” Breaking down myths and improving communications can help drive better outcomes.  OMB officials should take the point on this mission and ensure that myths are, once again, busted.