In Episode 3 of Let’s Talk EVM, hosts Amber Young and Barbara Phillips are joined by Michael Breuker of Pinnacle Management Systems for a deep, practical conversation on what it truly means to bid contracts with an Earned Value Management System (EVMS)—and why proposal decisions often create consequences long after contract award. Drawing on nearly 30 years of program management and EVMS consulting experience, Michael explains how EVMS requirements show up in solicitations, why “having a validated system” is often misunderstood during bidding, and what agencies are really asking for when EVMS language appears in an RFP. The discussion breaks down the role of the cognizant federal agency (CFA), differences in validation approaches across DOD, NASA, DOE, FAA, and civilian agencies, and how reciprocal acceptance (or lack thereof) affects contractors. Key discussion areas include: - What it actually means to bid an EVMS contract—and why validation can’t be rushed - Why companies often pursue EVMS validation for proposal points rather than management value - When and how EVMS plans are submitted as part of a proposal response - What a credible EVMS implementation plan must include: current-state description, gap analysis, and a realistic plan of action - Why agencies typically wait until after the Integrated Baseline Review (IBR)—often six months in—to conduct deeper compliance assessments - The role of self-assessments, third-party reviews, and how DCMA approaches validation - Why waiting to invest in EVMS until after contract award is usually “too late” The episode also explores “EVM Light,” scalability, and foundational project controls, including scheduling, budgeting, forecasting, and risk management. Michael emphasizes that while not every program needs full EIA-748 rigor on day one, foundational elements must be in place early—and that risk, more than compliance, ultimately determines business success. The conversation closes with broader reflections on leadership trust in data, why executives care about EACs and forecasts, and how credible EVMS data supports real business decisions—from profitability to staffing to cash flow. This episode is especially valuable for proposal teams, project controls professionals, consultants, and leaders navigating EVMS requirements during competitive bids and early contract execution.
