A timeline to manage services

Air Force officials have taken methodical steps in considering outsourcing back-office networks and digital imaging and printing equipment.

Fall 2001: Congress tells Air Force officials to study information technology outsourcing.

Summer 2002: Air Force officials submit a report to Congress analyzing available options and providing recommendations, including lessons learned from the Navy Marine Corps Intranet program.

Fall 2003: Officials announce plans to outsource routine IT equipment and operations at U.S. bases.

Spring 2004: Air Force officials consider turning over management of digital imaging and printing equipment to managed services providers.

Summer 2004: Air Force officials will decide whether to hire vendors to manage printers, copiers and fax machines. They will also complete a self-directed outsourcing study.

Source: Air Force