Feasibility Study

A feasibility study is a structured process to determine the possibility of conducting a public-private competition in accordance with OMB Circular A-76, Performance of Commercial Activities, or with similar Federal or State policies or laws. Many Federal and State agencies use feasibility studies to examine the practicality of public-private cost comparisons before committing to a competition.

A feasibility study includes looking at work activities to study, how best to package the activities, what sequence to study them in, and what options make most sense. Feasibility studies include input from subject matter experts to help clarify competition or realignment objectives. The result of a feasibility study is prioritized recommendations and a proposed methodology and timeline for each activity under consideration. Methodologies may include a public-private competition, business process re-engineering, or other means of gaining efficiency.

While a decision to compete the reviewed functions against the private sector is a possible result of a feasibility study, this process is not the same as the Preliminary Planning Process mandated by OMB Circular A-76. This process is, in many organizations, used as a precursor to the Preliminary Planning Process so that only ideal functional areas are selected for competition with the private sector.

Project Profile: Forest Service Fleet Management Activities Feasibility Study