The U.S. Postal Service expects to save $200 million over the next five years by simplifying its internal computer network.
The initiative, known as the Advanced Computing Environment, will centralize and reduce support functions for 130,000 computer users at 28,000 postal facilities nationwide. According to the USPS, the ACE will:
· Reduce almost 270 software packages used to 60.
· Reduce 85 district help desks to one.
· Reduce the number of servers from 13,000 to 1,500.
· Consolidate support locations from 11,000 to 540.
· Eliminate up to 800 contractor positions over the next 30 months.
“Consolidation and simplification gives us a more manageable support structure, better control of standardization and, with fewer support locations, the ability to significantly reduce costs,” USPS chief technology officer Charles E. Bravo said. “Standardization throughout the system is also one of the hallmarks of our transformation efforts.”
The terrorist attacks also placed increased emphasis on this initiative.
“In the post-September 11 environment, security has become an increasingly critical aspect of every information technology function,” Bravo said. “We can simplify and automate future deployments while enhancing overall security.”
Bravo said the ACE also supports the postal service's transformation plan not only by saving money but by helping increase efficiency.
