We recently had the opportunity to speak with Brittany Hungate, Product Manager at Ignyte, a trusted Appian partner, about the state of government procurement. Our discussion explored a range of topics, from emerging industry trends to her insights on strategies and systems that could enhance the field. In this blog, we explore:
The necessity of adopting new technologies
The shift from rigid systems to configurable tools
The role of artificial intelligence (AI) in procurement processes
Navigating resistance to change
In the world of government acquisition, change is often met with resistance. Many agencies prefer the comfort of outdated yet familiar systems, wary of the disruption new technology might bring. However, embracing change and leading with an open mind will allow for greater efficiency and innovation. Hungate emphasizes, “It’s a mind-shift for some clients that acquisition software can provide a nice user experience.” This mindset shift is crucial for modernizing acquisition processes and enhancing overall functionality.
From rigid systems to customizable tools
For years, government agencies have depended on commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) tools. However, these tools frequently require costly and intricate customizations to align with their specific requirements. Hungate explains how this inflexibility has hampered progress, causing many agencies to feel trapped in a one-size-fits-all approach. This rigidity has resulted in several challenges:
Inefficiency and data problems. Many systems are outdated or fragmented, requiring time-consuming and error-prone data entry. This manual data transfer between incompatible systems prevents efficient workflow and accurate reporting.
User frustration. Over 50% of federal acquisition professionals are dissatisfied with their current systems, with more than 40% stating that these tools make their jobs harder, not easier.
Lack of adaptability. The COTS tool has left agencies unable to adapt to evolving requirements, leading to a reliance on outdated processes and hindering progress.
Training issues. Users often lack continuous training, which is critical given the complexity and lack of intuitiveness of these systems. This gap causes difficulties in effectively using the tools. A modern solution designed for ease would greatly reduce training time.
“They find that COTS tools, which were very prevalent in the government 10 to 15 years ago, are far too rigid and don’t allow for some of the customization and configuration that everyone wants to do,” Hungate observes.
Imagine trying to fit every agency’s unique processes into the same inflexible system. It’s no wonder there’s frustration.
Customizable tools empower agencies by allowing them to align solutions with their unique workflows, leading to:
Faster deployment
Reduced costs
Systems that work for them rather than against them
The need for customization
Customization is no longer a luxury but a necessity. Hungate points out that the ability to adapt technology to specific needs is transforming how agencies operate. For instance, an agency might have a particular way of getting requirements or a specific terminology. With modern tools that are customizable, they can easily modify processes and interfaces to match their internal needs.
Hungate highlights, “Offering the flexibility to quickly and easily make those changes at no cost is a real differentiator from a COTS tool.”
Imagine being able to tailor your software just like you customize favorite apps to fit your preferences. This flexibility leads to more efficient workflows, happier employees, and a positive impact on the public. Ultimately, embracing change streamlines operations and enhances the ability to serve stakeholders effectively.
The role of AI in procurement
Another critical aspect of a modern procurement system is the integration of AI in procurement processes. There is often a fear that AI might replace human jobs, but Hungate envisions it as an enabler rather than a replacement.
“It’s a mostly manual process right now and is something that a large language model could do quickly, much faster than a person could,” she notes.
Think of AI as an extra set of hands— handling the chores like data synthesis and report generation, so you can concentrate on what really matters. By automating routine tasks, AI frees up valuable time and resources, helping agencies become more agile and responsive.
Why embrace this change?
Change is challenging, especially in environments steeped in tradition. But Hungate’s insights reveal why it’s crucial to keep an open mind. Moving to customizable tools and integrating AI aren’t just technological upgrades— they represent a much needed change in how procurement can be done more efficiently and effectively. “It’s really eye-opening if you can think beyond your current processes and how technology can enable your desired future-state process,” she says.
Throughout our conversation with Ignyte, it was evident that Appian’s Government Acquisition solutions significantly streamlined processes, demonstrating a true understanding of governmental challenges and needs by:
Facilitating rapid development. Appian’s low-code solutions allow for quick development of applications. This is crucial in meeting the expectation for faster deployment in government procurement processes.
Enhancing the user interface (UI). Appian’s emphasis on UI has been instrumental. By offering a UI that is intuitive and customizable, Appian opens minds to new possibilities among professionals who may have not realized such user-friendly solutions were available
Supporting customization needs. Appian provides configurable solutions that allow agencies to customize processes without incurring additional costs.
Take your federal acquisition strategy to the next level. Download the eBook, Government Acquisition Outlook: Experts Weigh In on the Future of Government Procurement, to read the full interview with Ignyte and other industry experts. You’ll learn about industry practices, new market dynamics, and technological advancements that are transforming government procurement.
