ROCK ISLAND ARSENAL, ILLINOIS - The Contract Development Program (CDP) at Army Contracting Command-Rock Island is leveraging Artificial Intelligence to enhance efficiency and innovation. In an Innovation Spotlight session, held in the Bill Turnis Conference Room on Aug. 28, the CDP demonstrated how generative AI is being applied to contracting processes.
Chris Pegg, contract specialist and fellow, led the session, covering AI capabilities, limitations, and practical applications to help employees integrate AI into their workflows.
Data management: Key to success in AI
Data management is the backbone of any successful AI system. It involves organizing, storing, and protecting data to ensure it is accurate, accessible, and ready for use. Clean, structured data enables AI to analyze, learn, and predict effectively. AI enhances data management by automating tasks and uncovering patterns, enabling smarter decisions and faster problem-solving.
CDP recognizes that the contracting environment is becoming increasingly complex, with growing demands for speed, accuracy, and adaptability. AI offers a unique opportunity to address these challenges by streamlining processes through routine task automation to free up time for strategic work, and enhancing scalability by handling large volumes of data and repetitive actions efficiently. AI also drives innovation in that it encourages new ways of thinking and problem-solving, and provides a competitive edge by leveraging cutting-edge technology to stay ahead in a rapidly evolving landscape.
What is generative AI?
Generative AI refers to systems capable of creating new content, such as text, images, and audio. The session highlighted AskSage, a generative AI tool designed to assist with tasks like drafting documents, creating presentations, generating code, and solving complex problems.
Pegg explained how AskSage generates human-like text responses based on patterns in its training data. While powerful, the tool requires human oversight to verify accuracy and cannot access real-time or proprietary data.
The session showcased real-world examples of AI applications within the organization, including how to generate job aids, templates, and training materials. It went further to show how AI can assist in drafting and reviewing Justification and Approval documents, as well as optimizing invoice processing, reducing errors and improving efficiency.
These examples demonstrate actionable tools and practices employees can adopt and tailor to their needs.
The role of prompt engineering
A key takeaway from this Innovation Spotlight session was the importance of "prompt engineering," the practice of crafting precise instructions to maximize AI tools' utility. Attendees learned how to design effective prompts for generating structured outputs, solving problems, or creating content.
“The examples shared during the session, like using AI to summarize meetings or optimize invoice processing, really demonstrated how these tools can save time and reduce errors, said Ashley Atkins-Doerscher, contract specialist and fellow. “I'm excited to explore how these applications can be tailored to meet our team's specific needs.”
The session concluded with open discussion, where attendees were encouraged to share their experiences and best practices with AI. The center's CDP remains dedicated to cultivating a culture of innovation and continuous learning, emphasizing the importance of agility and open-mindedness as processes adapt and transform the way business is conducted at ACC-RI.
ACC-RI is committed to fostering collaboration by organizing similar events with stakeholders across the center, equipping employees with relevant training and resources, and embracing innovative ideas and practices to solidify its reputation as a premier employer of Army professionals.
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