SharePoint Frequently Asked Questions:
Question:
Does EAS create the basic SharePoint site framework?
Answer:
No, CEC owns the platform and does the initial basic site creation. https://usda.gov/ocio/centers/cec. Then customers can reach out to EAS to customize the site and to discuss support, if they choose.
Question:
If I already have a SharePoint site, will EAS support it?
Answer:
EAS can absolutely support SharePoint sites already in USDA’s Office 365 Cloud environment. Additionally, EAS can work with you to migrate your existing SharePoint site to the shared environment.
Question:
How do I get access to Remedy? (Where I can submit support requests.)
Answer:
The Point of Contact (POC) on the Inter-Agency Agreement (IAA) automatically is granted Remedy access when the IAA is funded. Additional Remedy access requests go through the POC.
Question:
How do I find more info about a new SharePoint support agreement?
Answer:
Send an email to Steve.Coon@usda.gov with a cc to Andrew.Campbell@usda.gov.
Question:
How do I find out more about new SharePoint capabilities?
Answer:
Send an email to Steve.Coon@usda.gov with a cc to Andrew.Campbell@usda.gov.
Question:
Does Enterprise Application Services (EAS) charge for their services?
Answer:
Yes, EAS is a part of the USDA. However, EAS does not receive appropriated funding. EAS does fee for service work under Inter Agency Agreements (IAA) also known as 7600’s. Also, since EAS is part of USDA and not a commercial vendor, EAS is not allowed to make a profit.
Question:
So just what is an IAA?
Answer:
An Interagency Agreement (IAA) is a formal agreement between two federal organizations (can be within USDA or between USDA and another federal organization). An IAA consists of Treasury forms 7600-A and 7600-B. These documents formalize the agreement for the work and serve to formalize funding. While an IAA may seem similar to a contract, there are differences. One difference is the ease with which an IAA can be modified or even cancelled, in contrast with the difficulties associated with modifying or cancelling a contract. Other differences include the fact that there is no need for a contract style competition, or the documentation required to let a contract. Things like RFPs and SOWs are not required. (However, requirements and business objectives are highly recommended.) Also, IAAs are not subject to contract protests.