D -- The GCSS-MC Logistics Chain Management (GCSS-MC/LCM) program

The Marine Corps Systems Command, Quantico, VA will be hosting an Industry Day/Pre-solicitation conference on 7 November 2003 at the Hylton Memorial Chapel in Woodbridge, VA to provide an overview of the Marine Corps Global Combat Support System (GCSS-MC). The Joint GCSS Mission Needs Statement (MNS), approved in September 1997, established the Marine Corps need for a modernized logistics information system. Current Marine Corps logistics information systems have the following primary deficiencies: - They were designed to support specific functional processes, leading to non-interoperable - stovepiped systems that are expensive to develop and require overhead to maintain interfaces and deliver functionality - They force users to learn the intricacies of the computer system versus the specifics of the combat service support process The GCSS-MC Logistics Chain Management (GCSS-MC/LCM) program, which is Block 1 of the GCSS-MC portfolio modernization process, mitigates these deficiencies by mandating a Marine Corps-wide view of existing and future logistics information technology. GCSS-MC/LCM requires that current and future systems operate together via the network and provide a shared data environment using Internet-based interfaces, standard data and transaction sets, and AIT devices. Additionally, GCSS-MC/LCM introduces the replacement of five selected legacy systems that are scheduled for divestiture. A Systems Realignment and Categorization (SRAC) for Marine Corps logistics systems was performed to determine disposition of legacy Automated Information Systems (AISs). The recommendations provided have been approved and an initial migration approach has been developed. This abbreviated migration is referred to as the - Lights Out initiative, with specific implications for a carefully planned migration process directed by the Deputy Commandant for Logistics (DC, I&L). The - Lights Out initiative signals the onset of change management for the logistics domain, with revised policy and improved procedures provided to support COTS implementation throughout the Enterprise. Most importantly, the availability of GCSS-MC/LCM confirms determination by the enterprise to significantly improve the future business model and deliver a more effective and contemporary degree of logistics support. GCSS-MC/LCM is the gateway to more aggressive migration activities required in the out years, and becomes the hallmark event for the long anticipated divestiture from aging legacy systems. GCSS-MC/LCM provides the information technology capabilities necessary to execute Marine Air-Ground Task Force (MAGTF) Combat Service Support (CSS) and Supporting Establishment (SE) functions in expeditionary, joint, and combined environments, and those Combatant Command logistical areas addressed in the GCSS Capstone Requirements Document (CRD). The system will be developed using COTS business application suites or best-of-breed modules. GCSS-MC/LCM is the first real, organized, major enterprise initiative using COTS products to support expeditionary logistics. The completion of the GCSS-MC/LCM implementation will impact the entire Marine Corps, and will rely on a logistics network based on a tactical communications backbone for managing critical information. An Operational Architecture (OA) has been developed to improve outdated United States Marine Corps (USMC) logistics processes and systems by fusing supply chain management principles, best practices, and war fighting capabilities. The objective of the OA is to develop a set of integrated (horizontal) business processes that will enable a single logistics enterprise model. The OA consists of a series of artifacts that describe the tasks, activities, and information exchange requirements necessary to conduct Marine Corps logistics in an expeditionary environment. Building on the Supply Chain Operational Reference (SCOR) Model, the OA defines new logistics roles and functions, and establishes a "logistics chain management" framework. Attendance to this Industry Day/Pre-solicitation conference is recommended for all vendors interested in GCSS-MC, both Software vendors and System Integrator Vendors. It is anticipated that a draft RFP for the COTS Selection will be released on or about 31 October 2003. Release will be via the GCSS-MC web site at: www.marcorsyscom.usmc.mil/ITM2K/projects/GCSS-MC/GCSS-Main.asp only. Hard copies will not be distributed. Communications related to this program will be via the Contracting Officer at berrydw@mcsc.usmc.mil only. Individuals interested in attending industry day must submit the following information, no later than 30 October 2003, to berrydw@mcsc.usmc.mil: Company Name Company Address Name of Attendee(s) Attendees Phone Number Attendees Title Attendees E-mail address Identify whether COTS Software provider or Systems Integrator