The modernization of the National Background Investigation Services has been officially approved after Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment and Wash100 Award winner William LaPlante signed an acquisition decision memorandum on Oct. 18 authorizing the IT system’s digital transformation.
Aims of NBIS Modernization
The Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency said Friday the digital transformation enables the agency to migrate and modernize NBIS capital investments to the cloud. It also allows current personnel vetting IT systems to be retired.
NBIS is a significant component of the Trusted Workforce 2.0 initiative, aimed at supporting the federal government and cleared industry. The IT system manages the whole personnel vetting lifecycle aiding the TW 2.0 in onboarding new hires, enabling workforce mobility and enhancing insight into workforce behaviors.
Path to NBIS Modernization
The NBIS modernization efforts of the DSCA were made possible through the coordination between the USD A&S, the acting under secretary of Defense for intelligence and security, the Department of Defense Office of the Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Officer and the DOD chief information officer.
Milancy Harris, A/USD I&S, directed focused recovery sprints to prepare the NBIS program. Each partner made significant contributions ensuring meticulous acquisition planning, application of best practices in acquiring and developing modern software and measures for cybersecurity compliance.
In addition, DCSA Director David Cattler was given more authority to oversee the program, including costing, scheduling and performance of the program while providing support to its management team. This also allows DSCA to provide oversight of all acquisition programs.
“This foundation will enable us to address accountability and security in development and deliver a product that supports the personnel vetting mission and optimizes customer experience,” said Cattler.
