Transition to Web-Based SaaS and the Future of the AIMS Suite
I am writing to address the challenges and performance issues associated with Asset Information Management Solutions-Automated Armory (“AIMS-AA”). While it has played a significant role in our partnership, it has not consistently met the high standards we set for our technology or your expectations.
Addressing Challenges and Shortcomings
AIMS-AA has faced persistent inefficiencies, slow performance, and a suboptimal user experience, all of which have limited its value. Moreover, even when the software functioned as designed, it still fell short of meeting your expectations—a perception that is understandably difficult to overcome.
Additionally, the development team faced challenges in delivering seamless improvements, which strained our relationships with valued stakeholders like you. Internally, many of our former USMC leaders have raised concerns about the reputational risks associated with AIMS-AA. Since stepping into the role of Chief Technology Officer less than a year ago, I have prioritized documenting this feedback, addressing these issues, and charting a new course for Troika.
AIMS-AA was built on technology nearly a decade ago. However, the technological landscape has evolved, and it is time for us to advance the AIMS suite to meet modern needs. We are taking this opportunity to transform AIMS-AA—and the entire AIMS suite of products—into web-based solutions designed to align with current demands and future challenges.
Web-Based Applications
We are making a decisive shift toward modern, web-based SaaS solutions, moving away from legacy hardware-dependent configurations. This approach allows us to consolidate efforts and work from a single code base, rather than maintaining separate stacks for each client. This unified framework enables us to incorporate the best ideas and enhancements from any client into the application, creating a collaborative environment where everyone benefits.
The Evolving AIMS Suite
Alongside the modernization of AIMS-AA, we are proud to introduce two additional products in the AIMS suite:
AIMS-AA (Automated Armory): A secure, disconnected software solution for environments without network access. AIMS-AA enables precise issuing and recovery of end items, ensuring secure asset management.
AIMS-EL (Entry Log): Tracks and manages human entry and egress points at secure and sensitive locations, enhancing security and compliance with precise monitoring of personnel movements.
AIMS-IC (Inventory Control): A modern SaaS platform accessible on the MCEN, designed for SL-3 inventory management, inspections, and component shortfall analysis. This platform has been a key focus of my development bandwidth over the past year.
Opportunities for Early Adopters
As part of our growth strategy, we are seeking early adopters for all AIMS products. Joining as an early adopter provides opportunities to influence product development, shape features and functionality, and be among the first to deploy cutting-edge solutions for streamlined operations.
We are also offering a special opportunity for early adopters to secure a sweetheart deal. Though not completely worked out, we aim to make AIMS-AA, AIMS-EL, and AIMS-IC accessible via the Army IT Enterprise Solutions (ITES) contract for a one-year iterative period, at an entry price low enough to allow purchase via credit card.
Current and Future Versions of AIMS-AA
We will continue to sell AIMS-AA in its current hardware-software configuration for clients who wish to purchase the existing system now. However, while we will keep the current version running, no further feature enhancements or changes will be made—only bug fixes will be supported. Starting January 1, 2025, all development efforts will focus exclusively on rolling out the new, web-based AIMS-AA.
Existing quotes remain valid, and clients who purchase the current version now will have the option to transition into the new system once it becomes available. While we will make every effort to ensure a smooth data transfer, we cannot guarantee a seamless migration of all information to the new platform.
Next Steps
Clients with a history of using AIMS-AA will remain valued long-term partners. Your existing contracts will be honored, and we will continue to address any bugs or issues with the current hardware-based solution until those contracts expire. However, we sincerely hope you will transition to the new AIMS-AA during your current contract cycle to take full advantage of its capabilities.
To those who have been frustrated by the shortcomings of AIMS-AA, I apologize. I hope you will give us the opportunity to demonstrate the difference that a modern, efficient, and exciting approach can make.
This is an exciting time for Troika and our clients as we take bold steps forward together. I am confident that this new direction will lay the foundation for a stronger partnership and significantly enhanced user experiences.
Thank you for your patience, partnership, and belief in our mission.
John Casano
Chief Technology Officer