This is an important first step and the hope is that it will inspire other agencies to follow suit. Yet few federal agencies have fully implemented the laws. Kelman plans to return to academia this month. Crucial to the continued success of procurement reform is a similarly aggressive official whose appointment inspires the bureaucracy to get on board. Increase congressional participation.
Congressional oversight is necessary to sustain reform.
Congress also should reward agencies and employees that use the new procurement process to secure the best deal for taxpayers. When a procurement results in an increase in revenue or operational efficiencies a percentage of the benefit should be returned to the agency to fund other innovations. Kelman told Congress in 1995 that the bid protest process is inefficient and a disincentive. Contractors need to recognize that the protest process discourages innovation. Recognize and prepare for cultural challenges.