YEIRS - Year 2k Emergency Infrastructure Reconstitution System

The Y2K "bug" was expected to cause widespread breakdowns in computers, possibly causing disruptions of essential services.  USAID determined to meet this challenge by shortening the time to respond to requests for aid.  A web-based, secure system was developed to reduce the problem-to-contract time to as little as 5 days while still meeting government contacting standards.

Using ASP, SQL Server7.0, and NT (since upgraded to SQL2000 and Windows 2000 Advanced Server) the system manages the flow of a request for aid through triage, assessment, SOW, solicitation, and award.  At each stage of the process, each participating reviewer, contracting officer, financial person, and etc. is shown only those items requiring his or her immediate attention.  Email is used to automatically notify of new cases for consideration.

Key to the smooth  and timely flow of work through the system is the use of UWI forms supporting secure, verifiable signing via PKI technology.

Once signed, the entire document is secure against change and alteration and is a legal contarct.

This system provides an alternative to cumbersome paper-based acquisition methods.

The system reflects the way all contracting is done, not just emergency funding.
The system may be broadened to support all contracting with USAID's 14,000 private support organizations.