[zdragnar]

For a real change, the other side needs to pitch in too (having attempted to work with them, I am rather pessimistic).

The crux of the problem is similar to all large organizations- the power of the purse and people doing the procuring have different motivations and objectives than the people the things are being procured for.

Ostensibly, there are good reasons for this- avoiding graft, ensuring standardization among procurements, etc etc.

The downside is that what gets bought isnt what is needed, often costing more and doing less than if the people doing the work had more control over their own budget.

I have encountered a number of businesses that exist only to help other businesses win government contracts. Automating some of that might help bring in a bit more competition, but I suspect "dramatic change in efficiency" will be a taller order.