Past Performance

SCOPE:  Pragmatics supports the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) by providing full-service independent verification and validation (IV&V) to the USCIS Office of Information Technology (OIT) Process Engineering Branch. This highly complex program spans many aspects of systems development IV&V, as well as providing support for independent testing and extensive quality assurance (QA).

This program includes comprehensive, enterprise-wide  IV&V QA and test support transition services for over 130 systems, the CIS Requirements Improvement Program (RIP), Section 508 compliance testing, the Site Profile System project, IV&V management support, software development life cycle upgrade support, transition program office IV&V and test support, program support services for the Learning Management System, artifact scanning, and management in conjunction with National Security and Records Verification and strategic oversight for technical approach and planning. 

RESULTS: Pragmatics has successfully completed a full QA transition of all CIS systems that were previously managed by the incumbent.  We are progressing on a similar, success-oriented transition plan for the existing independent, performance, and interoperability efforts currently supported at USCIS.  We have successfully moved RIP into an active pilot phase supporting three existing CIS applications.  Pragmatics assists USCIS in expanding the scope and effectiveness of its IV&V services to ensure that quality information technology (IT) products are provided.  We additionally perform transitional activities with QA, testing, and services engineering tools to ensure alignment and readiness, which provides IV&V technical method expertise, processes, and concepts that are innovative, practical, cost-effective, and conducive to an IT life cycle quality monitoring environment.

TECHNOLOGY:
• Employ the USCIS Information Technology Lifecycle Model (ITLM) to support QA activities; document reviews; project tailoring; overall IV&V; and other required test, security, system management, and support activities.  Align ITLM with the high-level DHS Systems Engineering Lifecycle model.
• Conduct automated or manual performance, functional qualification, and interoperability testing; generate test problem reports when problems are encountered during testing.  Complete key peripheral test efforts that certify the completeness of the developed system.
• Conduct Section 508 compliance testing using DHS and CIS automated testing tools and software testing packages.
• Validate system documentation as part of the QA process for system enhancements, modifications, and changes, as well as new systems and program software, to determine adequacy, accuracy, readability, and presentation.
• Support USCIS to implement a new requirements management process by working closely with CIS system owners and technical leads in configuring and deploying Kovair requirement management processes and tools.
• Support CIS to assess current artifact scanning, storage, and retrieval technology.

SCOPE: Pragmatics provides testing support services to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), a major component of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).  We manage an enterprise-wide, large-scale verification and validation (V&V) effort with over 100 testers on ten teams in six locations to test CBP’s mission-critical systems and modernization efforts, as well as other related supporting activities.

• Our V&V support activities span all of CBP’s major systems.
• Pragmatics also establishes, implements, and oversees standard best commercial practices and methodologies for testing these systems, adhering to CBP’s methods and procedures while recommending improvements as appropriate.
• Our staff members are cross-trained and matrixed to meet surge requirements.
• We support the deployment of CBP applications nationwide, lending our technical expertise to end users, as well as field-testing new hardware and software.

RESULTS: 

• CBP applications are tested in a timely, thorough manner, ensuring user requirements are satisfied while reducing the risk of adverse impacts to production processing.
• We have also remained within budget and on schedule, working as needed to meet pressing deadlines and emergency needs, demonstrating our deep-rooted commitment to CBP’s mission.
• Pragmatics has reduced the chance of employee turnover and testers not remaining technologically current through a robust workforce development program, including tester certification, computer-based training, and project management professional training.

TECHNOLOGY:  We use the following tools in successfully testing CBP applications/systems:

• HP’s Quality Center/QuickTest Professional to perform automated testing in several CBP program offices
• Vendor-/CBP-developed simulators in testing license plate readers and radio frequency identification applications
• Section 508 commercial off-the-shelf tools, such as JAWS   

SCOPE: Pragmatics evaluated security policies and assessed products and services to secure ePortals for the National Communications Service (NCS). Pragmatics built a compendium of Distributed Denial of Service (DDOS) attack and defense tools and countermeasures, and built an integrated DDOS contingency plan for more than 20 networks and systems for DISA’s Network Services. Finally, Pragmatics is conducting a certification and accreditation (C&A) security assessment of Washington Headquarters Service (WHS) and the Offices of the Secretary of Defense (OSD). In support of the Designated Approval Authority (DAA), we produce System Security Authorization Agreements (SSAAs) in compliance with the DOD Information Technology Security Certification and Accreditation Process (DITSCAP).

RESULTS: Pragmatics is skilled at adapting COTS packages to security needs. We have used the iManage tool to support the content management, archiving, version control, and collaboration between geographically separated stakeholders. Pragmatics is a skilled integrator of the iManage tool and has developed a solution to support the WHS and the OSD in managing their SSAA certification and accreditation documentation challenges. This implementation includes:

• Archiving baseline documentation
• Tracking system upgrades (as reflected in the system documentation)
• Monitoring ATO/IATO status
• Sending alerts to stakeholders of document changes

Pragmatics also uses the Buddy System® Risk Analysis Tool if the certification level requires a detailed risk assessment. The Buddy System® can be customized and risk assessment surveys made available through a common web-browser. An evaluation of threats and recommended countermeasures can be displayed for the SSAA stakeholders to make informed risk management decisions.

TECHNOLOGY: This support includes analysis, integration, and implementation of security features for network components that includes Routers, ATM switches, Firewalls, Intrusion detection systems, and other network devices. Our engineers use Security Technical Implementation Guides (STIG) guidance to improve the posture of Windows 2000 workstations, UNIX (HP and Solaris), and network components (Cisco routers, Firewalls, etc). Our security integration team consists of Certified Information Systems Security Professionals (CISSPs), Microsoft Certified System Engineers (MCSEs), and Cisco Certified Network Associates (CCNAs).

SCOPE AND ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Under a number of contracts since 1998, Pragmatics has been providing full system and software development life cycle support for the Joint Operation Planning and Execution System (JOPES). JOPES, part of the defense Global Command and Control System (GCCS), is a very complex family of mission-critical, enterprise-wide and specialized applications used by the Joint Chiefs of Staff, operational forces, military services and supporting agencies for deployment planning and execution. JOPES consists of more than 30 different applications that include legacy and more modern client-server and web-enabled applications.

The current system of record, commonly referred to as “Classic JOPES” contained more than 4 million lines of code in 1998. Pragmatics developed new applications in a rapid prototype mode using the assistance of Joint Staff assigned Subject Matter Experts. These applications were more intuitive and functional, contained expanded help and web-based tutorials, and won great customer acceptance. The fielding of these applications allowed the retirement of four legacy systems. Functionality from various applications was also consolidated into few applications during this period further reducing the lines of code totals.

For the next generation of JOPES, called JOPES 21 by the Joint Staff, the best of the Classic JOPES functionality is being migrated to the new environment. This migration includes more web-enabled functionality, enhanced security features, more tightly integrated applications (the ability to move from editing to reporting or reporting to editing on the same records from within either the editing or reporting application); more consolidation of functionality into fewer applications, and a more robust and accessible audit capability using the standard reporting tool.

For the longer-term, JOPES is moving towards a Network Centric Enterprise Services (NCES) environment, which will be part of the Joint Command and Control (JC2) system. NCES and JC2 will utilize a Service Oriented Architecture (SOA) where data providers easily post information that data consumers easily discover and consume, thereby providing greater interoperability among owners and consumers of data. As part of this effort, the Force Projection NCES architecture and a Force Projection transition plan have been developed. As part of the plan various services prototypes have been developed, security issues resolved, and JOPES functionality is being migrated into J2EE applications. New techniques such as agile development, pair programming, continuous integration, and automated test tools have been implemented for both software development and maintenance.

DELIVERING QUALITY CUSTOMER SERVICE: Pragmatics has constantly and successfully adapted to changes in customer requirements stemming from operational, programmatic, or other factors. In an evaluation of Pragmatics’ performance, our JOPES client stated: “the contractor has met all significant milestones and delivery dates even when we have accelerated our schedule.”

Pragmatics has successfully delivered more than 220 segments and over 1,000 other deliverables. As part of that process, over 660 Classic JOPES and more than 300 JOPES 21 government problem reports and change requests have been closed along with more than 800 internally generated problem reports. JOPES user requirements are being met and applications are being delivered on time and within budget. The prototype applications Pragmatics developed to replace the legacy applications have become the JOPES standard for look and feel. Users now have reduced training times and greater proficiency with the JOPES system, thanks to our intuitive GUIs and embedded training/help functions. Over two million lines of legacy code have been retired, leading to much more cost-effective maintenance of JOPES. Classic JOPES has successfully supported the deployments and operations in support of Afghanistan, Iraq and the Tsunami relief, as well as the many other deployment activities of the past several years.

TECHNOLOGY: JOPES development and maintenance has dealt with many languages (including JAVA, ADA, HTML, Scripts (C-, Korn-, Borne-shell), TCL/TK, C++, Perl, Javascripts, SQL+, Screen Machine, Oracle Forms, Cold Fusion, BEA WebLogic, iPlanet, and Go Global), multiple operating systems (HP UNIX 10.20, Solaris version 2.5.1, to 8, and Windows NT, 2000, XP), and two versions of Oracle (7.3 and 8i).

SCOPE: In the Department of Defense (DoD) and intelligence community, Pragmatics provides intelligence analysis and operational oversight support involving process development and improvement, production oversight, and metrics collection and measurement program expertise. Pragmatics is considered a leader in developing information in intelligence analysis, operations, planning, and policy development to support the National Ground Intelligence Center (NGIC) Counter IED Targeting Program (CITP). We lead the development of CITP analysis and targeting production for NGIC and DoD. Our operations directly support Counter IED efforts worldwide, as well as the exchange of intelligence information throughout the intelligence community and between agencies. This project complies with all DoD and federal laws and regulations governing the listed tasks. Pragmatics employs Project Management Professional/Project Management Institute management best practices, metrics-driven process improvement, and CMMI® and ISO processes and practices to deliver the highest quality service to the customer.

RESULTS: The staff Pragmatics has embedded within CITP has been commended by CITP and NGIC leadership for the rapid and positive impact we have had on the CITP program. Our senior managers and subject matter experts assist in the long-term strategic development of CITP, which has been instrumental in growing CITP from 34 analysts to over 200.

Pragmatics provides liaison support within the National Capital Region, representing NGIC at the Army’s Intelligence and Security Command, the FBI’s Terrorist Explosive Device Analytical Center, and DoD’s Joint IED Defeat Organization and Army Asymmetric Warfare Office Program Office. We have also represented NGIC to many interagency and international partners and supported it in establishing partnerships with the United Kingdom, Australia, and Germany. This has resulted in NGIC’s establishment as the premier intelligence agency for C-IED-related intelligence support for the global war on terror.

The Pragmatics team was specifically tasked with performing CMMI-based, metrics-driven process improvement activities to support CITP. This included the successful revision of the weekly reporting process, which resulted in a direct savings of over 100 man hours per week. Pragmatics continues its efforts to find and gain efficiencies in the CITP program, enhancing critical support to the warfighter while maximizing cost savings.

SCOPE: The Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA’s) Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) program is the cornerstone of the U.S. government’s plan to transform the air traffic control (ATC) system.  It represents the next generation of air traffic control, offering improved situational awareness for both pilots and air traffic controllers.  ADS-B sends weather, traffic, and airspace information to airplane cockpits and will provide significantly more cost-effective performance with higher accuracy, integrity, and update rates than regular radar.

As a subcontractor to ITT, the Pragmatics team provides full life cycle software engineering support, using cutting-edge technologies, tools, and processes.  Pragmatics applies CMMI® Level 4 processes as applicable within ITT’s software development process, including software engineering and coding, testing and integration, configuration management/quality assurance, and release management to support the development and maintenance of ADS-B software.  These services help to ensure the availability and reliability of the FAA Surveillance and Broadcast Services System. 

RESULTS: Where possible, communication with external systems is performed across the IP network using a complex addressing scheme which results in optimized network performance, distributed application support, reduced network resources, and increased scalability and network availability.  Software is developed in C, an efficient programming language with low-level capabilities that allows the software to meet real-time performance requirements.  To ensure that ADS-B applications meet the stringent availability requirements, and to adhere to the aggressive development schedule, the software has been developed using appropriate elements of the agile development process (an iterative, incremental approach to software development that promotes collaboration and adaptability throughout the life cycle of a project).

TECHNOLOGY: The Pragmatics team used the following technologies and tools to develop the ADS-B Control Station software applications:

• Veracode SecurityReview
• Rational Purify Runtime Analysis Tool
• lcov Code Coverage Analysis Tool
• Splint: Secure Programming Lint Static Code Analysis Tool
• Eclipse Integrated Development Environment
• CUnit Lightweight Test Framework
• Doxygen Documentation Generation System
• All-Purpose STructured Eurocontrol Radar Information eXchange (ASTERIX) ATC message encoding standard
• 1090ES (1090 MHz Mode S Extended Squitter) and UAT (Universal Access Transceiver) ADS-B messaging standards

SCOPE AND ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Pragmatics develops, maintains, and enhances the www.usdoj.gov site, which is being migrated to a dynamic, database driven environment. The complex site contains over 60,000 pages with over 1.3 million URLs. We worked with DOJ on the project plan for establishing a detailed work breakdown structure outlining steps from initial requirements gathering to deployment. We are also working with the DOJ to plan inclusion of dynamic features such as database driven event calendars, press releases, and grant opportunities. We receive almost daily requests for updates and additions to the DOJ web site from approximately 40 DOJ organizations and offices, including the Attorney General’s office, DEA, and INS. Our team uses a custom Justice computer Services Assistance Center (JSAC) tracking tool to track and prioritize work requests, and log changes for configuration management.

DELIVERING QUALITY CUSTOMER SERVICE: Pragmatics team developed PERL scripts to reduce the team’s workload for updating PDF files that are part of the DOJ website. Pragmatics provided all DOJ personnel involved in the project desk-side training on the use of this script.

TECHNOLOGY: Pragmatics maintains and enhances the DOJ site using Dreamweaver, Photoshop, WordPerfect, and MS Office. We use Acrobat to convert documents and develop web pages that are compliant with Section 508 guidelines. We also use PageScreamer and Jaws to verify Section 508 compliance for the web pages.

SCOPE AND ACCOMPLISHMENTS: Pragmatics performs information technology (IT) consolidation and optimization of the service desk and desktop support that each of the Department of State (DoS) Bureaus receives under this performance-based task order.  We use the ITIL framework and enterprise-wide service level agreements (SLAs) that dictate our service levels on the contract.  Pragmatics also uses our documented CMMI® Level 4 and ISO 9001:2000 processes and metrics to manage all elements of the task order.
We are consolidating the infrastructure support provided to all Bureaus under a single framework of SLA-driven processes, providing the entire user base with a consistent level of service regardless of customer organization.
Pragmatics employees and subcontractors work with DoS employees in matrixed support organizations.  Support services are provided at multiple locations in the Washington, DC metropolitan area, with plans to expand to several domestic locations around the country.

RESULTS: The IT Service Center (ITSC) operates 24x7, with three daily shifts.  Weekly schedules and start times are staggered to maximize coverage Monday through Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.  Pragmatics approach to ITSC staffing emphasizes first call closure through pairing an average of two service desk analysts (front-line) with one subject matter expert (back line).  Tier 1 is the single point of contact with full ticket lifecycle ownership.  Tier 2 consists of subject matter experts in many disciplines providing greater levels of expertise, capable of resolving incidents through remote log-on.  If a ticket cannot be resolved remotely, it is assigned to the appropriate Desktop Support (DSD) branch.

TECHNOLOGY:
• Installation and configuration of hardware, software, and peripherals.  Team members diagnose, repair, and replace equipment.
• Image and patch deployment, knowledge management and training.
• Rollout of new and updated software, incorporating ITIL best practices into ITSC and DSD processes.

SCOPE: Pragmatics designed, developed, tested, implemented and maintains the Supervisory Information Systems (SIS) suite of bank supervision applications. Deployed across the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) enterprise nationwide, EV is a mission-critical system that automated the examination of community national banks and re-engineered OCC business processes. The SIS system comprises eight separate user applications: Community Bank EV, Supervisory Information System – Large Bank, Web EV, Office View, HQEV, EV Reports, EV Admin and National Credit Tool. The largest of these, Community Bank EV, is composed of 47 modules made up of 627 software objects. The distributed database to support EV is composed of 48 database and replication servers.

DELIVERING QUALITY CUSTOMER SERVICE: Rigorous management and quality assurance procedures have resulted in high quality code delivered on time and within budget. Pragmatics has supported this customer since 1995. In addition, we delivered SIS Reports (formerly EV Reports) in December 2000, National Credit Tool in June 2002, SIS-LB in April 2003, and SIS-Office in May 2004. In nominating Pragmatics for the 2004 Treasury Dedicated Service Provider Award, an OCC Manager stated, “Quite simply, Pragmatics delivers. Working with the OCC, Pragmatics has designed, developed, and supported numerous state-of-the-art technically advanced applications that continue to be delivered nationwide to national bank examiners on time and within budget.”

TECHNOLOGY: The system incorporated several different platforms, including MS SQL Server, Sybase ASE and Sybase ASA on the back end. Applications are developed in .NET and PowerBuilder.
• MS SQL Server
• Sybase, ASE
• .NET
• PowerBuilder

SCOPE:  Pragmatics maintains and enhances the government-furnished, Internet-based Web site www.afterdeployment.org.  The site offers the military community an important mental wellness resource and provides returning service members and their families with self-guided content solutions to help manage the challenges that are often faced following a deployment.  We are designing Web content and presentation features to capture the attention of users and encourage them to come back to the site for tools and information that will strengthen and help preserve their psychological health. 

RESULTS:  Our recommendations for Web site design, integration, and presentation have been accepted by the customer and are being implemented.   We provide complete life cycle support of ongoing Web site operations and maintenance, including audio and video multimedia that persuasively deliver pre-clinical information to the target audience.  During contract transition, Pragmatics performed an “as-is” assessment of the existing Web site and provided a set of high-level, detailed recommendations for a complete redesign and development.  These recommendations included using innovative content management software to streamline control of the site content and add greatly improved flexibility in continued releases on the site.

TECHNOLOGIES: The Pragmatics team maintains and enhances the Web site using the following tools, techniques, and software applications:
• Agile software development techniques, operating within the framework of CMMI^® Level 4
• Liferay Enterprise Portal platform, an open-source portal framework used to provide a dynamic, easily configured user interface architecture
• Xerceo Infuse, a learning management system used to implement and deliver shared content objects as part of the e-learning experience
• Adobe Creative Suite to create graphic and animated content
• Eclipse Integrated Development Environment to facilitate Java development
• Subversion, an open-source version control system, to support configuration management requirements
^®CMMI is registered in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office by Carnegie Mellon University.