Rapid Application Modernization Program (RAMP)

Problem Overview

The US government currently spends $73B annually on Computer Systems Design and Related Services (NAICS 5415). This spending has grown at a 9.22% CAGR between 2019 and 2024, and is projected to reach $104B by 2028 if current trends continue.

NAICS 5415 Spending Projection

Data source: USASpending.gov (2019-2024), Projected with 9.22% CAGR (2025-2028)

We estimate that 15% of this annual spend—approximately $11B—is allocated to basic web development for relatively simple database-driven websites built on legacy technologies. These systems are expensive to maintain due to outdated infrastructure and accumulated technical debt. The RAMP framework can deliver equivalent or superior functionality for just $1-2B annually, representing potential savings of up to 80%.

RAMP Solution Overview

The Rapid Application Modernization Program (RAMP) is an innovation in the contracts and acquisition process. It is designed to rebuild legacy web applications using cutting-edge technologies, elite talent, and modern methodologies to deliver software at breakneck speeds for a fraction of the cost of incumbent approaches. RAMP delivers completely modernized systems within 3-6 months at zero net cost to the government through our innovation in the performance-based compensation model.

RAMP is designed to attract world-class talent by offering exceptional short-term compensation tied directly to the rapid delivery of quality software. RAMP is designed to drive total contract values down through incentives for the delivery of measurable cost savings. The RAMP framework is designed to be a zero-risk, high-reward approach to modernizing legacy systems. RAMP promises better government software for less.

RAMP Cost Model

Our solution operates at zero or negative net cost to government agencies. Our compensation is 100% performance-based, tied directly to verified cost savings and delivery timelines. We receive 50% of realized annual cost savings in year 1, 25% in year 2, and 12.5% in year 3, with no charges thereafter.

RAMP Cost Savings Calculator

Program Parameters

40.0% of original cost
Auto-adjusted to minimum required period

Team Incentive Structure

Total Incentives
$13.13M
over 3 years after rebuild
Year 1
50% of savings
$7.50M
$0.63M per month
Year 2
25% of savings
$3.75M
$0.31M per month
Year 3
12.5% of savings
$1.88M
$0.16M per month

Cost Timeline Breakdown

PeriodCurrent CostsRAMP CostsNet Savings
Total$0.00M$0.00M$0.00M

Key Points:

  • During the 12-month rebuild period, the government continues to pay existing contract costs.
  • After rebuild, total RAMP costs = reduced base cost + incentive payments.
  • Team incentives are paid as a percentage of realized savings: 50% (Year 1), 25% (Year 2), 12.5% (Year 3).
  • Total projected savings: $0.00M (0%) over the 60-month analysis period.

Most RAMP projects are completed within the same fiscal year, enabling immediate budget relief. With no upfront investment and strictly performance-based compensation, agencies assume no financial risk—we succeed only when we deliver measurable savings.

RAMP Timeline

The program follows a streamlined 3-4 month timeline divided into three distinct phases:

1

Discovery

1 Month

Assess existing legacy web application and current state of systems

2

Rebuild

1-2 Months

Rebuild application using modern technologies, personnel, and processes

3

Transfer

1 Month

Documentation, training, and handover to enable long-term maintenance by lower cost resources

RAMP Personnel Innovation

RAMP operates with small teams of exceptional engineers rather than the large teams typically deployed for government IT projects. These elite technologists can deliver in weeks what conventionally takes months or years.

Our engineers receive premium compensation compared to industry standards in exchange for their demonstrated ability to deliver extraordinary results quickly. This performance-based model attracts world-class talent committed to rapid, high-quality outcomes.

Once development is complete, we transition the modernized systems with comprehensive documentation and best practices to a standard-rate workforce for long-term maintenance. This approach ensures both rapid development and sustainable operations while maximizing cost savings.

RAMP Technical Innovation

RAMP leverages a modern technology stack with reusable application templates to dramatically accelerate development. Our approach is built on a purpose-built NextJS foundation that enables rapid deployment across any environment—cloud, on-premises, or across classification levels.

Our technical stack includes NextJS for flexible web applications, TailwindCSS and ShadCN for consistent UI components, Prisma ORM for database abstraction, and Docker for containerization. This engineered balance of simplicity and scalability minimizes infrastructure costs while maintaining performance.

The platform includes pre-configured authentication systems that integrate seamlessly with federal SSO solutions. By standardizing these patterns, we reduce development time while maintaining high security standards and compliance with government requirements.

This standardized stack facilitates smooth transition to maintenance teams and supports ongoing enhancement. The architecture also leverages modern AI-assisted development capabilities, enabling rapid iteration and evolution of features as requirements change.

Next Steps For RAMP

To achieve rapid results, RAMP needs integration with established federal procurement mechanisms. Likely, the most efficient implementation path would be to accept this solution as part of a SBIR research grant program. With a SBIR award for innovative pricing and technical strategies, RAMP can begin delivering cost savings across federal agencies quickly.

Contact Information:
Email: matt@softservsoftware.com
Phone: (610) 731-5229