Presented by Icertis & Carahsoft

George Beerhalter, Director of Public Sector at Icertis, discussed the growing urgency to modernize the federal acquisition process so innovative technologies can reach the warfighter faster. Speaking at Sea-Air-Space, Beerhalter explained that the challenge facing the Department of Defense is no longer a lack of innovation. Instead, the biggest obstacle is the speed and complexity of government acquisition systems that often delay critical capabilities from reaching operational users.

Beerhalter noted that government agencies are becoming increasingly aware that commercial industry already possesses many of the technologies needed to solve defense challenges today. The issue is how quickly the government can identify, acquire, and deploy those technologies. He described how agencies are now engaging industry earlier in the process and relying more heavily on commercial partners to identify operational bottlenecks and recommend modernization strategies.

One major shift Beerhalter highlighted is the growing acceptance of commercial-off-the-shelf technologies. Historically, agencies often customized technologies extensively, creating long timelines and higher costs. Today, many organizations are more willing to adopt solutions that are already proven in the commercial market and adapt them only where necessary. According to Beerhalter, this change is helping agencies reduce acquisition timelines and accelerate operational deployment.

The conversation also focused on evolving acquisition strategies. Beerhalter explained that agencies are increasingly using commercial solutions offerings and mission-focused problem statements instead of rigid requirements documents. Rather than dictating exactly how companies must solve a problem, agencies are becoming more open to hearing innovative approaches from industry. This flexibility is encouraging broader participation from technology providers and helping agencies identify more effective solutions.

Beerhalter also discussed the importance of communication between industry and government. He argued that successful acquisition reform depends on constant collaboration and transparency. Industry must understand operational pain points, while agencies must become more comfortable engaging with commercial providers earlier in the acquisition cycle.

Finally, Beerhalter expressed optimism about ongoing FAR modernization and acquisition reform initiatives. Simplifying compliance requirements, reducing unnecessary regulations, and empowering contracting officers to make faster decisions could significantly improve the speed at which technology reaches operational users and ultimately strengthen readiness across the force.

Key Takeaways

• Acquisition speed is becoming a top defense modernization priority.
• Commercial-off-the-shelf technologies are gaining wider acceptance.
• Acquisition reform and improved collaboration can reduce procurement bottlenecks.