Letter to the editor

Following are responses to an FCW.com poll question that asked: "Is it possible to have a fair competition between public and private groups bidding for the same work?"

No, because the government does not even allow the government employees to bid in the first place. Look at what was done to the Army Logistics Systems Support Center group. That was a prime example of the employees' attempts being completely ignored.

Name withheld by request

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I don't see it as possible because:

1. Government constantly works on how to get around doing it.

2. Commercial people often bid with "get-in-the-door prices," and then their commitment to the business process changes if a steady stream of funding isn't available.

I worry about losing skilled government people. Contracting out leaves no skilled people to take their place.

Name withheld by request