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Insider Insights
What is Google Gemini exactly?
“Launched on December 6, 2023, Gemini marks the dawn of a new era in AI at Google, according to CEO Sundar Pichai. Unveiled earlier at this year’s I/O developer conference, Gemini AI stands as Google’s most advanced Large Language Model (LLM) designed for multimodality, encompassing text, images, video, audio, and code. In addition to this, Google is introducing two other versions: Gemini Nano, a lighter edition for Android, and Gemini Ultra, tailored for data centers and enterprises.”
Gemini surpasses human experts in Massive Multitask Language Understanding (MMLU), a widely acknowledged method for evaluating the knowledge and problem-solving capabilities of AI models. Multimodal learning has historically posed a challenge for AI, with most algorithms specializing in singular domains like language, computer vision, or speech recognition. However, Gemini tackles image, video, and audio individually, showcasing benchmark results that outshine both Chat GPT-4 and other models combined, particularly excelling in cross-modality tasks.
Google asserts that Gemini AI demonstrates expertise across various modalities, including Language Understanding and Generation, Image Processing and Creation, Mathematical Reasoning and Formula Manipulation, and Sophisticated Code Generation. Notably, Google emphasizes coding as a standout application for Gemini. The latest code-generating system, AlphaCode 2, exhibits remarkable performance, surpassing 85 percent of participants in a coding competition—an impressive 50 percent improvement over the original AlphaCode. As of now, Gemini is available only in English, with support for additional languages anticipated in the near future.”
Dan Marsh ~ Co-Chairman, Hinz Consulting
Competitive Intelligence and Pricing
How Strategic Pricing Can Improve Cost-to-Serve for Public Sector Service Providers
“Strategic pricing is pivotal for enhancing cost-to-serve efficiency for public sector service providers. By meticulously aligning pricing structures with operational realities, providers can optimize resource allocation, reduce overheads, and improve overall fiscal responsibility. This strategic approach not only enhances financial sustainability but also ensures the delivery of high-quality public services.”
Chris Placzek ~ SVP, Pricing Services, Hinz Consulting
Key Takeaways
1. Alignment with Budgetary Constraints and Fiscal Responsibility.
Strategic pricing for public sector service providers must align closely with the budgetary constraints and fiscal responsibilities of government agencies. This alignment ensures that services remain financially sustainable, justifiable to taxpayers, and contribute to overall fiscal responsibility. By setting prices that are reasonable and transparent, service providers can optimize their cost-to-serve within the context of public funding.
2. Transparency as a Foundation for Trust and Accountability.
Transparency is a cornerstone in the public sector, and strategic pricing plays a crucial role in maintaining and enhancing it. Clearly communicating the cost breakdown of services builds trust with government agencies and the public. Transparent pricing practices not only justify costs, but also demonstrate accountability. Establishing trust through transparency is essential for fostering positive relationships with stakeholders and ensuring that the cost-to-serve is perceived as fair and reasonable.
3. Incentivizing Efficiency, Innovation, and Competition.
Strategic pricing empowers public sector service providers to incentivize efficiency, innovation, and healthy competition. By adopting flexible pricing structures that reward effectiveness and quality, providers can drive continuous improvement in service delivery. This innovation leads to streamlined processes, reduced administrative overheads, and ultimately lowers the cost-to-serve. Moreover, promoting healthy competition based on value and innovation ensures that services are delivered more efficiently and effectively, benefiting both service providers and the government agencies they serve.
AI Corner
What Should I Look For When Choosing An AI Solution?
“The half-life of technology is so fast, it’s a full-time job to track which companies are keeping pace and investing in continual development – we run to the AI COE to carry this burden for you.”
Josh Thiel ~ SVP, Hinz AI COE, Hinz Consulting
Questions To Consider
- Is the technology outdated or about to be eclipsed?
- Is the technology patented or will they be put out of business?
- Is the company financially solvent or will they go out of business?
- Is the company investing to evolve the product?
Culture Corner
Proposals, Parties, and Present Shopping – Oh My!
“Proposals, parties, and present shopping – oh my! It’s a busy time of year for everyone but especially for proposal people. The pressure of deadlines combined with holiday commitments can make us stressed. We are expected to be everywhere and do everything. Often, we have to choose between work and family during this season. So, make sure to be in the moment for whatever you are doing. If you have to write that section before you go to the party, be in writer mode. If you’re at the school play, be in family mode. It might be tough but you will be happier. So plan your time, choose your task, and leave the rest for later. Your present is being present!”
Angela Marsh ~ SVP, Org. Development, Hinz Consulting
Success Stories
INSCOM G3 TRAINING SUPPORT
“In supporting the INSCOM G3 Training Support project, our dedicated team, led by a skilled Basis of Estimate Consultant, successfully crafted a comprehensive bid that not only exceeded a $100M valuation but also showcased our commitment to precision in technical solutions and proposal writing.”
~Hinz Consulting
Overview
- Scope of Work (SOW): The bid focuses on providing training and support services for intelligence-gathering methods (SIGINT, HUMINT, etc.) at Army bases globally.
- Methodology and Approach: Utilizing an updated staffing model based on analogous estimating techniques, the consultant seamlessly integrated the RFP details, technical solution components, and staffing matrix into a 31-page Basis of Estimate (BOE) and a 27-page technical volume.
- Efficiency and Defensibility: By selecting a client BOE template, aligning it with the RFP scope, and employing analogous estimating for each Contract Line Item Number (CLIN), we not only delivered a defendable estimate but also streamlined the proposal process, earning appreciation from the client for our consultant’s invaluable contribution and dedication.
As we wrap up this edition of ‘Hinz Sight,’ we thank you for joining us on this journey through the intricacies of government contracting. Remember, hindsight is not about looking back—it’s about moving forward with the clarity and confidence gained from our shared insights.
Warm regards,
The Hinz Consulting Team
