WASHINGTON, DC – November 14th, 2011 – MORI Associates has been selected as a recipient of the 2011 NASA Small Business Industry Award (SBIA) on behalf of NASA Headquarters as the Small Business Prime Contractor of the Year. This award honors the exceptional work MORI is performing for NASA’s Office of Small Business Programs (OSBP).

MORI provides program management, financial management, and Mentor-Protégé program support to OSBP. MORI has helped OSBP in revamping the NASA Mentor-Protégé Program by simplifying the process, implementing creative cutting edge solutions to tasks and issues to increase participation, and enabling the creation of more capable and competitive teams. MORI Associates delivers exceptional customer satisfaction. MORI staff assists OSBP in public outreach and communication to teach small businesses how to navigate through the complex world of NASA acquisition and implemented small business training at all Centers to help NASA reach small business goals. In addition to the OSBP, MORI supports NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) on multiple efforts as a subcontractor to Raytheon, Lockheed Martin, ITT, and ManTech.

MORI accepted this award at the 4th Annual NASA Small Business Symposium and Awards Ceremony. The event took place on November 3, 2011 at the Hyatt Dulles located in Herndon, VA.

Technical Services

• Data Warehouse Requirements and Design Implementation: MORI-ProLogic has reviewed the available CBP and other discrete data and is working on identifying a strategy for cleansing the data and then storing the data within the warehouse. This includes performing complex data calculations to identify the amount of storage space and the operational requirements for all of the servers used within the project. MORI is also defining a strategy for placing the CBP and other discrete data sources into a common frame of reference. MORI-ProLogic performed a detailed requirements analysis among the seven DOT modes that will use the data and identified the data requirements. The team then used this data to design the data warehouse structure, and the ETL processes necessary to collect and upload the data.
• Data Warehouse Test and Deployment: MORI-ProLogic has developed a working prototype of the system to resolve several design considerations. After running initial tests, it appears that MORI-ProLogic will meet all design and performance requirements.
• Security Requirements: The data center design has been met all DOT requirements, including a security evaluation. MORI-ProLogic also met DHS safety and security requirements as a prerequisite to transferring CBP data to DOT.

Innovative Solutions to Satisfy Technical Requirements

• Because of budget shortfalls, DOT has not been able to deliver the equipment necessary to develop the first stage of the Data Warehouse. MORI has responded by purchasing the equipment and developing a prototype which allowed system design to proceed through this potentially dangerous schedule set-back.
• MORI is using a Problem and Risk Management set of processes in order to identify risk and quickly correct the problem. Risks are reviewed monthly in formal Program Management Reviews with the customer and MORI Senior Management. This has allowed MORI-ProLogic to be aware of issues as they occur and quickly provide technical and program level recommendations. As a result of implementing these processes, MORI has not had any quality issues.

Results

The IFDS initiative is primarily to design, develop, test, implement and maintain a decision Support and Business Intelligence System for the participating DOT Modes. The IFDS will increase user effectiveness by providing one source of authoritative information for decision support, business intelligence and reporting, and provide information for enforcement, analytical, and policy decisions. MORI is developing this data warehouse using the Kimball data warehouse design methodology. MORI has helped RITA outsource the data as well as design and build the Federal Enterprise Architecture (FEA)-compliant data center architecture.

Technical Services

• Data Center Support: MORI staff provides daily, weekly, and monthly reporting of server operational support. MORI performs daily operations support for three data centers, including security design and implementation support. MORI personnel assisted in the consolidation of the Air Traffic control system.
• Information Technology Security: MORI personnel managed the identification and implementation of server patches and anti-virus updates for approximately 600 servers and 2000 end users. MORI implemented Microsoft Software Update Service (SUS) to install the patches within a Windows environment as well as schedules visits for implementation of patches on other workstation operating systems and the Windows, Linux, and UNIX servers. MORI personnel also implemented the McAfee virus suite across the information infrastructure and coordinates anti-virus updates with the Network Operations Center/Security Operations Center (NOC/SOC).
• Communications Systems Engineering: MORI manages a large switched voiced, voice-over IP (VOIP) and radio-over IP network for the FAA AFSS. MORI provides VOIP services for approximately 1,200 end-users, switched voice service which communicates with individual FAA customers and other federal agencies, and implementation of SolarComm switches that capture radio transmissions and transfer them through VOIP to individual controllers associated with networks in the central and western regions of the United States.

Innovative Solutions to Satisfy Technical Requirements

• MORI personnel developed and managed two large transitions within the central and western regions of the United States. Within 12 months, MORI personnel helped the FAA and the Prime Contractor decrease the number of facilities from 57 to 15 facilities and 3 principal hubs.
• MORI developed rigorous cut-over plans for the transfer of equipment and functions from legacy sites to the three national hubs. This risk management approach simplified the ability to implement large cut-overs concurrently with normal flight operations without increasing any risk to air and passenger safety.

Results

MORI was able to develop a CISCO-based telecommunications infrastructure for the central and western regions of the United States and manage the operations of 600 servers for 2000 end-users. MORI staff was able to perform the consolidation of Air Traffic control systems while providing >99.99999% operational reliability. Due to the quality of our personnel, MORI technicians and managers have risen to significant managerial positions and provide direction and guidance for data centers within the central and western parts of the United States, technical evaluation of new technologies, and facilities management.

The SBCA 2010 Award Program recognizes the top 5% of small businesses throughout the country. Using statistical research and consumer feedback, the SBCA identifies companies that we believe have demonstrated what makes small businesses a vital part of the American economy. The selection committee chooses the award winners from nominees based off statistical research and also information taken from monthly surveys administered by the SBCA, a review of consumer rankings, and other consumer reports. Award winners are a valuable asset to their community and exemplify what makes small businesses great.

About Small Business Commerce Association (SBCA)

Small Business Commerce Association (SBCA) is a San Francisco based organization. The SBCA is a private sector entity that aims to provide tactical guidance with many day to day issues that small business owners face. In addition to our main goal of providing a central repository of small business operational advice; we use consumer feedback to identify companies that exemplify what makes small business a vital part of the American economy.

November 2008

The companies listed on the DiversityBusiness.com represent each State’s and USA top multicultural earners and challenge the long-held notion that a diversity-owned business is small or insignificant.

The Power of Diversity Business

It is no longer just “the right thing” to do business with diversity suppliers. Affected by recent economic and demographic trends and changes, corporations throughout the country are realizing that diversity in suppliers positively impacts their business. Diversity-owned businesses contribute over $1.5 trillion in sales to the U.S. economy.

“Diversity businesses are a growing force in the U.S. economy, and a force to be reckoned with,” said Shana Deldjoubar, CEO of MORI Associates. “It’s no longer only about the Fortune 500. This is a whole business segment that can carry its own, that provides jobs and valuable products and services, and generates wealth for their communities. These are the new leaders of American business.”

“Small businesses are the heroes of diversity-owned business in America, we are the people that have conquered the hurdles and made the sacrifices, building and strengthening our communities, providing jobs and helping to keep the fabric of the U.S. economy together.” Said Shana.

For the complete list of winning companies, please visit: http://www.diversitybusiness.com/Resources/DivLists/2008/

MORI recognizes that its success is a measure of how well the Company serves its customers and its community as well as the hard work and dedication of its staff members.

June 22, 2005

Shana is delighted to be a part of an elite group of business professionals who welcomed this years’ theme “Celebrating Excellence and Success.”

“The national 7th Annual Fifty Influential Minorities in Business Awards Gala “Celebrating Excellence and Success” is the Minority Business & Professionals Network’s (MBPN) most prestigious event, which honors the success of inspirational, dynamic, men and women business leaders who are African American, Hispanic, Asian Pacific, Asian Indian and Native American. These individuals share a commitment to professional excellence and demonstrate a strong involvement in their communities. They are people helping to shape the future of corporate America, small business enterprise and the global market. The winners are recognized as a select group of people who have achieved notable success and demonstrated long strong leadership in their line of business and industry.”

“I am delighted to be recognized with this prestigious honor. At MORI, we work hard to deliver quality service and solutions for our government clients. We differentiate ourselves by focusing on the clients business needs and making sure that we deliver our solutions on time and on budget” said Shana Deldjoubar.

A panel of distinguished judges chose Shahnaz Deldjoubar as an entrepreneur who has demonstrated outstanding achievement in four key areas: business development, client satisfaction, professional affiliations and community outreach.

Ms. Sharon R. Pinder, Special Secretary, Governor’s Office of Minority Affairs said, “The business owners selected for this award represent the best of the state’s more than 200,000 women and minority owned businesses. Their contributions have had a major impact in maintaining Maryland’s vibrant economy.”

“It is a privilege and an honor to be recognized by State of Maryland, The Governor’s Office of Minority Affairs (OMA),” said Ms. Shahnaz Deldjoubar. “Maryland’s business community is exceptional, and to be named a Top 100 in this region is a tremendous source of pride for MORI Associates’ team. I hope that all of this year’s finalists can serve as an example to other entrepreneurs that through the proper focus and commitment, success in business is possible, even in a difficult economy.”

Shahnaz Deldjoubar will be honored at an awards ceremony at the Inn and Conference Center, at University of Maryland University College, in Adelphi, Maryland, on Friday, October 27, 2006.

Shana is delighted to be a part of an elite group of business professionals who welcomed this years’ theme “Celebrating Excellence and Success.”

“The national 8th Annual Fifty Influential Minorities in Business Awards Gala “Celebrating Excellence and Success” is the Minority Business & Professionals Network’s (MBPN) most prestigious event, which honors the success of inspirational, dynamic, men and women business leaders who are African American, Hispanic, Asian Pacific, Asian Indian and Native American. These individuals share a commitment to professional excellence and demonstrate a strong involvement in their communities. They are people helping to shape the future of corporate America, small business enterprise and the global market. The winners are recognized as a select group of people who have achieved notable success and demonstrated long strong leadership in their line of business and industry.”

“I am delighted to be recognized with this prestigious honor. At MORI, we work hard to deliver quality service and solutions for our government clients. We differentiate ourselves by focusing on the clients business needs and making sure that we deliver our solutions on time and on budget” said Shana Deldjoubar.

We know many companies work hard and try, but we were able to differentiate ourselves from all other competitors by delivering what we promised, on time and under budget. Because our entrepreneurial spirit and our first-class staff have consistently been able to produce high quality products and provide exceptional solutions, we have been awarded this prestigious award on the 50th Anniversary of the SBA.

CMMI® integrates multiple capability maturity models into a single improvement framework for systems engineering and software engineering improvement. CMMI® enables not only the strengthening of software engineering processes, but also places a significant emphasis on project management and structured decision-making. It facilitates the effective integration of people capability maturity aspects with the software engineering discipline. CMMI® is a worldwide recognition and a standard of excellence in software engineering.

“This landmark event validates our passion and commitment to quality and is an independent confirmation that our service delivery is guided by the very best industry practices. The event further highlights our unrelenting endeavor of delivering to stakeholder expectations by managing people, scope, and priorities,” said Shana Deldjoubar, President/CEO for MORI Associates. CMMI® maturity levels are increasingly used by government agencies and Fortune 500 companies to evaluate the potential for organizations to deliver quality solutions on time and within budget. The independent appraisers reviewed MORI Associates operations using the prescribed Standard CMMI® Appraisal Method for Process Improvement (SCAMPISM Class A).

“It is not often that I see a small company like MORI Associates implement such an excellent CMMI® based quality management system. I am impressed by MORI Associates commitment to CMMI®, the corporate change that took place as a result of the CMMI® implementation, and the benefits that MORI Associates has already realized from its improvement program. The fact that we performed the SCAMPISM A appraisal in half the time we had initially planned is a clear indication of MORI’s high state of readiness for the appraisal as well as MORI Associates commitment to CMMI. It was an honor to lead MORI Associates SCAMPISM A appraisal,” said Sandra Cepeda, Lead Appraisal and President/CEO for Cepeda Systems & Software Analysis, Inc. (CSSA).

“I am extremely proud of MORI Associates accomplishment. MORI Associates worked very hard to complete the CMMI® certification within a very short timeframe. I don’t think many companies would have been able to keep up with the process. I am very happy to have played such a small role in such a phenomenal success. Kudos to Shana Deldjoubar and MORI Associates team for a job well done!” said Deborah Jackson-Hamilton, Electronic Data Systems (EDS) – Mentor Protégé Program Manager.

“This certification is the culmination of a tremendous effort on the part of MORI Associates. Their team worked hard, stayed the course, and reached this important milestone. This accomplishment is more evidence that the Mentor-Protégé Program works and works well.” said Cozy Bailey, Vice President of the USGS Office of Business Relations for Electronic Data Systems (EDS).

CMMI® is registered in the US, Patent & Trademark Office by Carnegie Mellon University.