Dialogue Periods
Dialogue Period 1 (Group) 1 Dialogue Period 1 (Group) Find your group, and write one original post and one response post to another student to each of the following two dialogue topics (4 posts total for the period, or one original and response post each week): Format: 4 posts of 200 words or less in dialogue format. Post 1A (an original post, followed by a response post to another student) is to completed by the end of the first week of Period 1. Post 1B (an original post, followed by a response post to another student) is to be completed by the end of the second week of Period 1. RESPONSE: MASON-ENTR640-DIALOUGUE1-POST1 Hello Class, Pros: 1. Economic Growth: Small businesses are a significant source of job creation and innovation. By supporting these businesses, these programs can stimulate economic growth. 2. Diversity: These programs can help to promote diversity in the business world by supporting businesses owned by women, minorities, and veterans. 3. Competition: By supporting small businesses, these programs can help to maintain a competitive marketplace, preventing monopolies and promoting innovation. Cons: 1. Inefficiency: Some argue that these programs can lead to inefficiency by favoring small businesses over larger, potentially more efficient ones. 2. Quality: There may be concerns about the quality of goods or services provided by small businesses, particularly in industries where economies of scale are important. 3. Misuse: There is a risk that these programs can be misused, with larger businesses creating smaller subsidiaries to take advantage of the benefits. As for the fairness of these programs, it’s a subjective matter. Some people believe they level the playing field for small businesses, while others argue they unfairly disadvantage larger businesses. In terms of procurement efforts on behalf of the government, these programs can both help and hinder. They can help by ensuring a diverse range of suppliers and preventing overreliance on a few large companies. However, they can also hinder by potentially limiting the pool of suppliers and possibly leading to higher costs or lower quality. References: Feldman, S. W., & Keyes, W. N. (2011). Government contracts in a nutshell. (5 ed). St. Paul. th MN: West Publishing Co. Set-Asides for Small Business: Setting aside acquisitions. Federal Acquisitions Regulations, I, 19.502-2(a) https:www.acquisition.gov/far/current/pdf/FAR.pdf http://www.sba.gov/content/procurement-technical-assistance-centers-ptacsLinks to an external site. Compton, Paula B. (2010). Federal acquisition Key issues and guidance. Vienna, VA: Management concepts. DOI: www.managementconcepts.com 1A – Discuss the pros and cons of small business preference programs. Are these programs fair? Do they help or hinder procurement efforts on behalf of the government? As a taxpayer, do you agree or disagree with these programs? 1B – Select one “headache” from the Crusius (2017) article, or determine another based on your experience or research, and describe its implications on small businesses seeking to contract with government entities. Crusius (2017) Top 10 Gov’t Contracting Headaches in 2017.pdf Dialogue Period 2 (Group) Dialogue Period 2 (Group) Find your group, and write one original post to each of the following two dialogue topics, and one response post to another student’s original post (4 posts total for this period): RESPONSE: MASON-ENTR640-DIALOUGUE2-POST1 Low-Price/Technically Acceptable (LPTA) Contracts and Best Value Contracts each have their own pros and cons, and they can have different effects on small businesses. LPTA Contracts: Pros: 1. Cost-Effective: The primary advantage of LPTA contracts is that they are cost-effective. The contract is awarded to the lowest bidder who meets the technical requirements, which can save money. 2. Simplicity: The evaluation process is straightforward, as it primarily focuses on price and basic technical competence. Cons: 1. Quality Risk: The main disadvantage is the potential compromise on quality. Since the focus is on the lowest price, the quality of work may suffer. 2. Limited Innovation: LPTA contracts may discourage innovation as contractors focus on meeting minimum requirements at the lowest cost. Best Value Contracts: Pros: 1. Quality and Innovation: These contracts consider factors beyond price, such as quality, expertise, and innovation. This can lead to better outcomes. 2. Long-Term Value: They may provide better long-term value, even if the initial cost is higher. Cons: 1. Higher Costs: The initial cost of these contracts can be higher, as they consider factors beyond just price. 2. Complexity: The evaluation process can be more complex and time-consuming. Effects on Small Businesses: LPTA contracts can be beneficial for small businesses as they often have lower overhead and can offer competitive pricing. However, they may struggle to compete on quality and innovation in Best Value Contracts. On the other hand, small businesses that specialize in a particular area or offer innovative solutions may find Best Value Contracts more advantageous, as these contracts consider factors beyond just price. However, they may find the higher costs and complexity of these contracts challenging. References: Compton, P.B. (2010) Federal Acquisition: Key Issues and Guidance. USA: Management Concepts. FAR (n.d.). Subpart 15.1—Subpart 15.1-Source Selection Processes and Techniques Retrieved from: https://www.acquisition.gov/sites/default/files/current/far/html/Subpart %2015_1.html http://health.mil/Reference-Center?query=proposal+evaluation+criteriaLinks to an external site. http://health.mil/Military-Health-Topics/Acquisition-Procurement-andSmallBusiness/Component-Acquisition-Executive Links to an external site. 2A – Discuss the pros and cons of Low-Price/Technically-Acceptable Contracts (low price wins) versus Best Value Contracts. What effect do these types of contracts have on small businesses? 2B – Review FAR 52.203-13 Contractor Code of Business Ethics and Conduct. Describe the importance and implications of this clause. Provide biblical support for ethics in contracting with government entities? Dialogue Period 3 (Group) Dialogue Period 3 (Group) Find your group, and write 2 original posts and 2 response posts to the following two dialogue topics (4 posts total for this period): Format: 4 posts of 250-300 words in dialogue format. 3A – Describe the importance of research in marketing to government customers. What particular strategies would you recommend for small businesses? RESPONSE: Turner ENTR 640 Discussion post 3A Market research is generally known as the process of “…collecting vital information about a company’s target audience, market, and competition” (Emeritus, 2023). When businesses properly utilize market research, they are able to understand better the wants and needs of their target audience (Emeritus, 2023). When it comes to government customers, market research allows businesses to determine “…if commercial products, commercial services, or non-developmental items are available to meet the Government’s needs or could be modified to meet the Government’s needs” (Acquisition.GOV, (n.d.)). Conducting proper market research is vital for winning government contracts because it allows companies to understand the market landscape, pinpoint needs and requirements, develop effective competitive and pricing strategies, and strengthen efforts in marketing (Sherr, 2023). Market research allows contractors to “…significantly improve their chances of securing contracts and achieving success in the government marketplace” (Sherr, 2023). When it comes to pursuing government contracts as a small business owner, it is important that you differentiate your small business from your competitors. Focus on what sets your company apart from the other competitors that are present in the market, emphasizing any “…unique features, success stories, or testimonials. Highlight those unique qualities in your marketing materials and proposals” (Crowley, (n.d.)). It is also important for small business owners to build strong relationships with potential business partners and government officials. Building relationships can take time, but they are essential if you want to establish yourself and your business in the eyes of the public (Crowley, (n.d.)). References Acquisition.GOV. (n.d.). FAR. Part 10 – Market Research | Acquisition.GOV. https://www.acquisition.gov/far/part10#:~:text=(b)%20Market%20research%20is%20then,to%20meet%20the%20Governm ent’s%20needs. Crowley, L. (n.d.). 8 strategies to stand out from other government contractors. Winvale Blog. https://info.winvale.com/blog/strategies-stand-out-government-contractors Emeritus. (2023, November 14). What is market research? definition and types. Emeritus India. https://emeritus.org/in/learn/what-is-market-research-and-why-is-itimportant/#:~:text=Market%20research%20is%20a%20systematic,consumer%20behavi our%2C%20and%20market%20condition. Sherr, R. M. (2023, April 21). Market research is key for successful government contractors. FedBiz Access. https://fedbizaccess.com/market-research-is-key-for-successfulgovernment-contractors/ 3B – Describe the benefits and risks associated with teaming/subcontracting. What recommendations would you give to small businesses seeking to partner with other organizations in pursuit of government contracts? Can you provide scriptural support for partnerships of these types? RESPONSE: MASON-ENTR640-DIALOUGUE3-POST2 Some Benefits of Teaming/Subcontracting: Access to Resources: Small businesses can access resources, expertise, and capabilities that they may not possess. This can enhance their competitive advantage and ability to deliver on contracts. Risk Sharing: Teaming or subcontracting allows businesses to share risks associated with large projects. This can be particularly beneficial for small businesses that may not have the financial capacity to absorb significant losses. Market Access: Teaming can provide small businesses with access to new markets and opportunities that they may not be able to reach on their own. Some Risks of Teaming/Subcontracting: Dependence: There’s a risk of becoming overly dependent on the partner organization. If the partner fails to deliver, it can negatively impact the small business. Confidentiality: There’s a risk of losing control over confidential information or proprietary technology. Profit Sharing: Profits must be shared with the partner, which can reduce the financial benefits for the small business. Recommendations: Due Diligence: Conduct thorough research on potential partners to ensure they are reliable and have a good track record. Clear Agreements: Have clear, written agreements outlining roles, responsibilities, risksharing, profit-sharing, and dispute resolution mechanisms. Regular Communication: Maintain regular communication with the partner to ensure alignment and address any issues promptly. Scriptural Support: The Bible encourages partnerships and collaboration. Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 says, “Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up.” This can be interpreted as an endorsement of the benefits of teaming and partnerships, including shared effort, mutual support, and increased productivity. References: Payne, M. H. (2018, August 8). Ethics in Federal Government Contracting. Cohen Seglias. https://www.cohenseglias.com/contracting-database/ethics-in-federal-government- contracting/. https://smallbusiness.chron.com/advantages-disadvantages-subcontracting50575.htmlLinks to an external site. English Standard Version. (2016). Bible Gateway. https://www.biblegateway.com/versions/English-Standard-Version-ESV-Bible/Links to an external site. Dialogue Period 4 (Group) Dialogue Period 4 (Group) Find your group, and write an original post, and a response post for each of the following two topics (4 posts total for this period): Dialogue Forum 4 Format: 4 posts of 200 words or less in dialogue format. 4A – Based on the Clark (2017) article, discuss costs associated with government contracting for small businesses. What strategies may be employed to reduce costs and maintain an ability to pursue contracts? Response: Turner ENTR 640 Discussion Post 4A Government contracting has the possibility to be a very beneficial opportunity for small businesses that are looking to expand their customer base (ProPricer, 2023). It is vital that small business owners take advantage of the opportunities present in the market as soon as they see them because as more businesses become aware of the opportunity, the competition for it increases (Clark, 2017). Winning a government contract as a small business can be a “…complex endeavor that demands a comprehensive grasp of the associated costs…it is critical for small businesses to accurately calculate their true costs…to ensure they are pricing their products and services appropriately and making a reasonable profit on their contracts” (ProPricer, 2023). Proper pricing in government contracting can make the difference between winning or losing the contract, and if a business were to underprice or overprice its products and services, it could be detrimental, making it hard for your business to survive (ProPricer, 2023). For small businesses, there are two main types of costs when it comes to government contracting: direct costs and indirect costs (ProPricer, 2023). Direct costs are costs directly associated with the contract, like materials, labor and subcontractor expenses (ProPricer, 2023). They are typically easier to calculate, and most small businesses have an understanding of them (ProPricer, 2023). On the other hand, indirect costs are costs that “…that cannot be directly attributed to a specific contract but are necessary for running your business, such as rent, utilities, and overhead expenses. Indirect costs can be more challenging to calculate, and this is where many small businesses need help” (ProPricer, 2023). Some strategies that can be employed to reduce costs and maintain the ability to pursue contracts are taking the time to negotiate the terms of a contract so that the price is beneficial to both parties. Another option could be to invest in outsourcing. Outsourcing can save a business time and money. By “…outsourcing non-core business functions, companies can save money on salaries, benefits, training, and infrastructure. This can allow companies to allocate more resources to their core competencies” (Freelance Latin America, 2023). References Clark, C. S. (2017). To Keep Winning Federal Contracts, Small Businesses Say They Have To Spend More. Government Executive. https://www.govexec.com/management/2017/01/keep-winning-federal-contracts-smallbusiness-say-they-have-spend-more/134380/ Freelance Latin America. (2023, March 24). How can outsourcing help your business?. LinkedIn. https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/how-can-outsourcing-help-your-businessfreelancelatam ProPricer. (2023, March 22). Calculating your true costs for Government Contracting Success: A Guide for Small Business Owners. LinkedIn. https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/calculatingyour-true-costs-government-contracting-success-guide 4B – Explain the importance of a quality management system in the execution of government contracts. How can small businesses design, develop, and implement quality processes in their organization? CLark (2017) – Keep Winning Federal Contracts.pdf RESPONSE: Period 4 Post 2 In the context of government contracts, a QMS is essential for several reasons. First, it ensures compliance with the stringent quality requirements often stipulated in government contracts. Second, it helps in risk management by identifying potential issues before they become problems. Third, it can enhance the business’s reputation, making it more competitive for future contracts (Stengel, 2022). For small businesses, the first step in designing a QMS is to understand the requirements of their customers, in this case, the government. This involves understanding the specifications and standards that the government requires for its contracts (Williams,2017). Next, the business should define its quality standards based on these requirements. These standards should be documented in a quality manual, which serves as the foundation for the QMS. The third step is to develop processes that meet these standards. This involves mapping out the steps needed to deliver the product or service, identifying potential risk areas, and developing procedures to mitigate these risks. In conclusion, a QMS is crucial for executing government contracts, and small businesses can design, develop, and implement quality processes by understanding customer requirements, defining quality standards, training employees, and continuously improving their processes (Williams,2017). References Stengel, J. (2022, November 7). Quality check_why contractors need to pay more attention to quality management. Quality Check: Why contractors need to pay more attention to quality management. https://axaxl.com/fast-fast-forward/articles/quality-check_whycontractors-need-to-pay-more-attention-to-quality-management Williams, J. (2017, November 21). Principles of Total Quality Management in Small Business Environment. Small Business – Chron.com. https://smallbusiness.chron.com/principlestotal-quality-management-small-business-environment-4678.html
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