DHS Applying Lessons Learned from CDM Implementation

Halfway through a four-phase implementation, DHS staff running the Continuous Diagnostics and Mitigation program want to retool the process to ensure the remainder runs more smoothly than phases 1 and 2.

The department has been making changes to the surrounding task order contracting process, the structuring of deadlines around critical milestones, and overhauling the way program officials communicate with public and private stakeholders.

Task order contracts under the acquisition strategy that will guide procurement around phases 3 and 4, will be longer and have less rigid requirements built in compared to the task orders crafted for phases 1 and 2. The new task orders are also longer, spanning five to six years as opposed to the two- or three-year timespan given to contractors under phases 1 and 2.