MKGCS uses Data to Support Warfighter Readiness
Most of the leadership at MKGCS at one time worked in the Army Operations Center in the Pentagon. Then came 9/11 and everything changed. It was more imperative than ever that personnel and equipment could be tracked globally – not only tracked but evaluated in context to provide information that could offer decisive solutions.
NCMS member MKGCS has developed just those kinds of platforms for its customers. “Because we all worked in the Army, and we understand the needs from the squad level all the way up to Army Headquarters, we are able to anticipate new situations even before the operators and can help facilitate the process,” says Larry Kendrick, vice president of MKGCS.
At the core of MKGCS is a diverse team of subject matter experts who can use their knowledge and experience to design and construct data systems that deliver the right information to the customer. That may be why several MKGCS CTMA projects are on the forefront of maintenance and sustainment technology, especially with the Army National Guard.
Two distinct data systems have been extremely popular – the Mobilization Common Operating Picture (MOBCOP) and the Mission Analysis Readiness Resource Synchronization (MARRS). MOBCOP focuses on existing mission analysis and planning tools to accommodate manning information needs requested by the U.S. Army Deputy Chief of Staff (G-3) in order to ensure deployment and sustainment of an effective, lethal, optimized, and ready fighting force for the Total Army. MARRS holistically synchronizes, manages, and collaborates on existing and disparate capabilities. This business process automation technology provides the data necessary to source and support warfighting, maintenance, sustainment, as well as personnel and training requirements.
While much of MKGCS’ business is with the Army, wide-ranging discussions with the Navy are underway. With data now a combat enabler and key to evaluating mission readiness, data-driven business processes coupled with real-time business intelligence is of interest to the entire DoD enterprise.
Each MKGCS data platform is custom-made from listening to what the client needs. “The customer knows they need something, but perhaps not the what. We conduct a Business Analysis first to identify if or what kind of platform is needed and prototype it within two-three months – not years – to deliver critical capabilities so we get it into the customer’s wheelhouse. Then they are able to modify and expand,” says Kendrick.
Currently, MKGCS is managing 15 different applications for the Army with more in development. “We can’t say enough good things about working within the CTMA Program,” says Kendrick. “Because of the speed that CTMA allows, very quickly we, and the input of the government sponsor get to see our collective initial vision come to fruition.”