When a small business consistently achieves success, it is worth taking note. When that same business garners numerous 8(a) awards for diverse projects ranging from an AI Data Lake to a Natural Language Querying Module to an AI to Pilot Operational Tool, among others, it piques our interest. In this interview, we sit down with Aws Ali, President of ICA, to discuss the ways in which government and 8(a) small businesses can leverage these programs to drive innovation.
8(a) as a Path, not a Door
Accepted into the program in 2019, ICA takes a slightly different view of the opportunity the 8(a) program provides, saying it doesn’t have to be just another door to contracting as some may think, but it can serve as a critical path through which government can achieve efficient and effective establishment of new innovation iniatives.
“Government is ripe and ready for innovation but as a vendor you can go in and talk innovation all you want and help no one. You need to be effective at triangulating all of the necessary components in the government requirements gathering and contracting process; how to work with the technical offices, the contracting officers, and the administrative side to move forward. It is a critical element in being able to translate potential opportunities to contracts-in-hand.”
As it evolved, engaging with small business offices in various agencies, the team began to understand that not all contracting officers are fluent in small business programs, in the justifications, the Rule of Two, or the potential behind 8(a).
“We try to leverage the 8(a) program a little bit differently than most, taking the approach of using it as a vehicle for innovation. Instead of focusing on the 8(a) factor, we walk into meetings asking for the hardest problem they have and then using our contract as a springboard for innovation.”
The Promise
Understanding at the outset that the company did not have the past performance it required to get in the door, the team built strategic partnerships with AI-based companies which would get them in the room with the right people, then promised and delivered on being a pragmatic partner, focused on value-add solutions, on understanding the data involved and then using innovative techniques to help agencies become AI ready.
Using the 8(a) program as a way to expedite the timeline and compress the administrative burden, ICA is focused on offering an opportunity to create a greater impact within an organization. “We work to focus the data, to look at where it fits in the process, what value can be generated and what infrastructure is needed to position the client on a path to success. We don’t say we’re an AI company or a cloud engineering company, but rather, a solutions company.”
Helping clients to evolve the way they handle their data, the way they provide feedback on that data, the team works to bring efficiencies to its clients.
The Escalator View
“I tell our team that the way we need to view AI is with an escalator view. It may not work perfectly at the beginning so it needs to be built so if it breaks, like an escalator, the stairs are still there to be used for something.”
For ICA that may mean a feedback loop that digitizes a manual process, adding additional layers that can then be automated moving forward. “We’re always looking to create that additional level of value beyond the initial goal, a way to improve what is already being done.”
Along the way, any team interacting with a client must have a view to bridging gaps in knowledge that avoids frustrating those with technical knowledge working to advance solutions, and supports those stakeholders looking for real value and the specificity in data that helps them answer critical questions. “Our goal is understanding whatever the mission critical challenges are and working to make a broader impact within an organization through innovative approaches.”
Putting in the Work
While the 8(a) vehicle creates a pathway for government to reduce its burden to innovation, for the company behind the vehicle, there is still work to be done as a business, to create a compelling story and demonstrate that the company is able to create tailored, scalable, and pragmatic solutions in order for them to create a deeper and sustainable relationship with their customer.
“Not all 8(a)s will succeed. My biggest recommendation is to really fine-tune your approach to business. Consider 8(a) as gasoline but know that you still need the structure, the motor, the engine to drive the business forward.”
In speaking with clients, part of the compelling story is understanding the Rule of Two, how it benefits the client from a procurement standpoint, and how your model and leveraging the 8(a) vehicle will support them in solving their challenges. Never assume that is understood.
Innovation and Creation
“At the end of the day innovation is about creating impact for a client. That might be completely about processes, not even using technology. It could be as simple as understanding the business value of certain organizational decisions and helping clients navigate those, reducing time to decision, arming them with the data they need.”
“I always say never walk into a meeting not knowing what value you bring to the client or partner that you’re sitting in front of. Know you’re bringing value to this conversation because you have the right capabilities, you have resources or connections, beyond whatever business status you may claim.”
At ICA, our team of talented professionals is the driving force behind the transformative solutions we deliver to renowned organizations like the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ), and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Our collective dedication to cutting-edge technology and high-impact collaborations has solidified our position as a key player in the AI, analytics, and research.
We work diligently across numerous program offices, spearheading initiatives that tackle pressing challenges and shape the future of healthcare, aviation, and public services. Leveraging advanced AI, analytics, and research methodologies, we continue to develop and implement innovative strategies that revolutionize the operations of these vital organizations.
At ICA, we understand that the perfect blend of technology, expertise, and collaboration is essential for achieving lasting progress. Our commitment to excellence and innovation shines through the AI-driven solutions we develop, which not only enhance the capabilities of our valued partners but also positively impact the lives of countless individuals. As a team, we take pride in the work we do and the difference we make.
As we continue to grow and evolve, your invaluable contributions will help strengthen our position as a trusted partner and thought leader in AI, analytics, and research. Your work not only elevates our organization but also inspires positive change within our partner institutions and beyond. We are proud to have each of you as a part of our team, and together, we will continue to make a lasting impact, shape the future, and uphold the esteemed reputation of ICA.
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