Man-Machine Systems Assessment (MSA) Company Profile
Background
Overview
Man-Machine Systems Assessment (MSA) is a woman-owned small business established in 1990, dedicated to enhancing national defense capabilities through comprehensive evaluation and support services. With over 35 years of experience, MSA has assessed more than 400 defense systems across over 60 test sites, including Army programs and select joint environments.
Mission and Vision
MSA's mission is to provide objective evaluations and operational insights that assist leaders in reducing risk and making informed decisions, thereby strengthening national security. The company envisions being a trusted partner in defense, civil government, and private sectors, ensuring mission readiness and effectiveness.
Primary Area of Focus
MSA specializes in test and evaluation, human systems integration, and emergency management, focusing on enhancing the performance and readiness of defense systems. Their services support force development, fielding, and mission effectiveness with objective insights grounded in real mission needs.
Industry Significance
Operating within the defense and aerospace industry, MSA plays a critical role in ensuring that military systems meet operational requirements and are prepared for deployment under various conditions. Their expertise contributes to the overall effectiveness and safety of defense operations.
Key Strategic Focus
Core Objectives
- Evaluation and Analysis: Conduct thorough assessments of defense systems to ensure they meet mission requirements and are ready for deployment.
- Human Systems Integration: Enhance system usability and operator performance through comprehensive human factors analysis.
- Emergency Management: Develop and execute exercises and plans to ensure organizational readiness for various emergency scenarios.
Specific Areas of Specialization
- Test and Evaluation Support: Provide support across all phases of system evaluation and the Department of Defense acquisition process.
- Human Systems Integration: Assess human factors and system usability to improve performance and safety.
- Emergency Management: Lead, design, facilitate, and control full-scale, functional, and tabletop exercises to measure readiness.
Key Technologies Utilized
MSA employs a range of technologies, including simulation software, data analysis tools, and modeling techniques, to conduct evaluations and analyses effectively. Their methodologies are grounded in real mission needs, ensuring relevance and accuracy in their assessments.
Primary Markets or Conditions Targeted
MSA primarily serves the U.S. Department of Defense, including the Army, Air Force, and Navy, as well as state, local, and federal agencies requiring emergency management and continuity of operations support.
Financials and Funding
Funding History
As a privately held company, MSA has not publicly disclosed detailed financial information or funding history. The company has been recognized as a five-time Inc. 5000 awardee, indicating significant growth and financial stability.
Total Funds Raised
Specific details regarding total funds raised are not publicly available.
Notable Investors
Information about individual investors or venture capital involvement is not publicly disclosed.
Intended Utilization of Capital
While specific plans for capital utilization are not detailed, MSA's focus on enhancing readiness and supporting mission-critical programs suggests investments in technology, personnel, and infrastructure to maintain and expand their service offerings.
Pipeline Development
Key Pipeline Candidates
MSA's pipeline includes ongoing evaluations and support for various defense systems, though specific projects are not publicly detailed.
Stages of Clinical Trials or Product Development
As a service-oriented company, MSA does not engage in clinical trials or product development but focuses on system evaluations and support services.
Target Conditions
MSA targets conditions related to defense system performance, human factors integration, and emergency preparedness.
Relevant Timelines for Anticipated Milestones
Specific timelines for milestones are project-dependent and not publicly disclosed.
Technological Platform and Innovation
Proprietary Technologies
MSA utilizes proprietary evaluation methodologies and tools tailored to defense system assessments, though specific technologies are not publicly detailed.
Significant Scientific Methods
- Human Factors Analysis: Assess human factors and system usability to improve performance and safety.
- Simulation and Modeling: Employ simulation software and modeling techniques for system evaluations.
AI-Driven Capabilities
While MSA employs advanced data analysis techniques, specific AI-driven capabilities are not publicly detailed.
Leadership Team
Key Executive Profiles
- Lilly Harris – President and CEO: With over 20 years of leadership at MSA, Lilly Harris has guided the company to become a trusted partner in defense evaluations.
- Calvin Harris – Founder: Established MSA in 1990, Calvin Harris laid the foundation for the company's mission-focused approach to defense system evaluations.
- Joe Loya – Executive Vice President & CFO: Oversees financial operations, ensuring the company's fiscal health and supporting strategic growth initiatives.
- Ellice Luh – Vice President of Engineering Services: Leads engineering teams in providing technical expertise and support for defense system evaluations.
- Kim Herring – Executive Assistant: Provides administrative support to the executive team, facilitating efficient operations.
- Martha Harris – Senior Advisor: Offers strategic guidance and insights, leveraging extensive experience in defense evaluations.
Leadership Changes
No recent significant changes or appointments within the company's leadership have been publicly disclosed.
Competitor Profile
Market Insights and Dynamics
The defense evaluation and support services market is characterized by a need for specialized expertise in system assessments, human factors integration, and emergency management. Companies in this sector must navigate complex government contracting processes and maintain high standards of quality and reliability.
Competitor Analysis
MSA operates in a competitive landscape with several key players:
- ManTech International Corporation: A defense contractor offering a broad range of services, including cybersecurity, software development, and systems engineering.
- Foster-Miller, Inc.: Specializes in military robotics and advanced materials, providing innovative solutions for defense applications.
- Maverick Technologies: An industrial automation and enterprise integration company, offering systems integration services across various industries.
Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships
MSA collaborates with various defense agencies and primes, leveraging contracting vehicles such as GSA PSS, GSA OASIS SB Pool 1, SeaPort Next Gen, JE-RDAP, and various agency-specific IDIQs to expand its capabilities and market reach.
Operational Insights
MSA's lean business model and focus on mission-critical evaluations provide a competitive advantage in delivering cost-effective and timely services. Their ISO 9001:2015-certified quality management system and DCAA-compliant financial structure ensure high standards and reliability.
Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions
MSA is well-positioned to expand its services in human systems integration and emergency management, areas of increasing importance in defense operations. By leveraging its expertise and maintaining high standards, MSA can continue to support the evolving needs of the defense sector.
