As pressure for solutions to secure the border mount, two subcommittees of the House Homeland Security Committee took a look at how the nation can make smart investments in technology to aid Border Patrol with this important mission.
In a joint hearing, titled “Smart Investments: Technology’s Role in a Multi-Layered Border Security Strategy,” Committee members focused on the use of technology in border security. I was invited to testify in my capacity as president and CEO of the Professional Services Council (PSC), a trade association representing over 400 private-sector companies of various sizes that contract with the federal government.
Every Strategy Depends on Implementation
The hearing was designed to focus on the role of technology in a border security strategy. The success of any strategy relies on effective implementation, and this is especially true for border security. We believe that contractors are among the best sources of technology and innovation to support this implementation.
But this raises an important question: What are the sources of innovation? It can originate from inside the government or outside the government. It can come from companies doing business with the government and those that are not. It can also come from good ideas proposed by Congress. However, for innovation to be effective, good ideas and technology alone are not sufficient. If innovation fails or if users in the field cannot or will not use it, then it becomes a problem rather than a solution.
That’s why we urged DHS and other agencies to leverage today’s contractors to find and integrate new technology and innovation. Today’s contractors already understand the mission, are close to the users, and comprehend their needs and capabilities. They recognize the importance of data integration and interoperability and know how to comply with the numerous rules and laws governing contracts. These attributes make today’s contractors an asset in advancing technology and innovation.
We recommended:
1) DHS should focus its contract requirements on results and outcomes, not just on inputs.
2) Congress can better support long-term commitments by appropriating funds on time, so that DHS can access technology and innovation faster and get results sooner.
3) Contracts take too long. Congress can help DHS speed up the time it takes to award contracts.
4) Better workforce training can help DHS use technology better, and contractors can help.
The effective implementation of technology in border security requires a collaborative effort between the government and contractors. Innovation can come from various sources, but its success depends on practical application and user adoption. Today’s contractors, with their deep understanding of missions, user needs, and compliance requirements, are well-positioned to drive technological advancements and innovation. By leveraging the expertise of both new and existing contractors, the government can enhance its capabilities and achieve mission success, ensuring a secure and efficient border security strategy.
