Premier Consulting & Integration, LLC

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Deltek Costpoint

Don’t Overlook Indirect Rates

If your firm wants to do business or contract with the government, it’s crucial to understand that compliance with the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) and Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation (DFAR) frameworks is a must.

These regulations outline the guidelines and procedures that companies must follow when dealing with the government. As part of this process, firms are required to submit indirect rates as part of their cost accounting system, which can impact how much they can charge the government for their products or services. By carefully understanding and adhering to FAR and DFAR regulations, your firm can ensure smooth and successful business dealings with the government.

There are three types of costs to consider:

  1. Direct Costs
    1. FAR 2.101 – Direct costs are costs that can be identified specifically with a particular final cost objective.
  2. Indirect Costs
    1. FAR 2.101 – Indirect cost means any cost not directly identified with a single, final cost objective, but identified with two or more final cost objectives or with at least one intermediate cost objective.
  3. Unallowable Costs
    1. FAR 2.101 – Unallowable cost means any cost that, under the provisions of any pertinent law, regulation, or contract, cannot be included in prices, cost-reimbursements, or settlements under a government contract to which it is allocable.


Allowable vs. Unallowable

When it comes to government contracts, it’s important to differentiate between what constitutes an allowable cost and what doesn’t. Allowable costs are those that can be charged directly to a government contract or indirectly through assigned indirect rates. It’s critical to know the difference, as unallowable costs could result in significant financial penalties.

Understanding the components of indirect rates, including fringe benefits, overhead, G&A (general and administrative), material handling, and subcontractors, is also crucial to ensure the accuracy of cost allocation. In essence, by properly identifying, tracking, and charging allowable expenses to a government contract, companies can fulfill contractual obligations while minimizing the risk of non-compliance.

Prepare your Firm!

PCI is excited to offer an upcoming webinar series that will take a deep dive into all aspects of indirect cost rates and how your firm can best prepare for them. Throughout the series, we’ll cover topics such as types of indirect costs, calculating and billing indirect rates, and how to stay compliant with government regulations.

Join us for this informative webinar series and enhance your understanding of the often complex and confusing world of indirect cost rates.

Special Integration Scenarios

Written By: Sandy Froonjian

At PCI, our API team occasionally encounters unique integration scenarios that fall outside our usual process. There are two main scenarios that can occur: 1. If the client’s third-part software lacks API capabilities; 2. If the client’s Costpoint (or primary ERP system) is locally hosted. Our team is experienced in dealing with both scenarios, so you can trust us to handle them efficiently.

            If you’re having trouble integrating third-party software due to a lack of API capabilities or limited data transfer options, don’t lose hope! There’s another solution that can help you complete the integration successfully: utilizing an SFTP site.

SFTP stands for Secure File Transfer Protocol. A SFTP site is a secure, online folder where files can be uploaded and downloaded from. Instead of making GET request calls to the third-party software to grab data, a report of all the necessary data can be uploaded to the SFTP site, and the integration function can download it to get the data. Conversely, instead of making POST/PUT request calls to the third-party software to insert/update data, the integration function can upload a report of all the new data to the SFTP site. We can connect to any SFTP site the client would like us to, whether it is their own company’s SFTP site or their third-party software’s SFTP site. If neither of those are an option, we also have our own SFTP site here at PCI that clients are welcome to utilize.

            In some cases, our clients may have their Deltek Costpoint or primary ERP system hosted locally instead of in the cloud. It’s important to note that our integrations do not necessarily require Costpoint, but this situation applies specifically to those that do. If your Costpoint is locally hosted and you want an integration created, the main issue is connecting to your system. In order to connect in these circumstances, we use VPN’s (Virtual Private Networks). The client sets up a VPN on their end and whitelists our IP address so that when we try to make API calls to their network, it will allow that communication through. All PCI has to do is turn on our virtual private connection. Once both pieces are in place, we can connect just as easily to your system as we can with a cloud-based system!

            As you can see, just because we sometimes work with clients whose situations do not fit the typical integration protocol, we are still determined to make integrations work for them. As always, if you are ever unsure of what option is best for your company’s situation, reach out to PCI’s sales team, and they will be happy to assist you!

Contact a PCI sales representative today to schedule time to discuss your next API integration here.

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[Blog] Is an API Right for You?

[On Demand Webinar] API Integrations 101

[Webpage] See what API capabilities PCI has to offer here.

5 Reasons Deltek ProjectCon Is A Must Attend Event

Deltek ProjectCon 2023 will be taking place from October 16th – 18th at the Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center in Orlando, FL. As a Platinum Sponsor of this event, PCI is excited to be a part of this incredible event!

Deltek ProjectCon is the ultimate event for project-based business professionals looking for inspiration, education and collaboration. This unique three-day conference is filled with learning and networking opportunities that you do not want to miss! Here are the top 5 reasons why you absolutely can’t miss out on this amazing event. Trust us, it’s going to be epic!

  • Expand your Knowledge and Skills

The conference is designed to provide attendees with the latest insights and best practices in all areas. With over 300 sessions, you’ll uncover valuable tips and tricks, gain insider insights into upcoming product developments and witness inspiring success stories from organizations like yours.  

Make sure you attend three must-see sessions hosted by PCI!

CPSPON-10 – Elevate Your Subcontractor Game: Mastering the Art of Subcontractor Management

CPSPON-11 – Mastering the Indirect Rate Reconciliation Process

CPSPON-12 – Simplify Your Expense Management and Maximize Efficiency

DAS-03 – Achieving Scheduling Zen – How to Unleash the Power of WorkBook Resourcing Planning

  • Network with Like-Minded Professionals

Deltek ProjectCon brings together thousands of like-minded professionals. This provides an excellent opportunity to network with colleagues and make new connections! The conference offers numerous networking events as well as an expo hall where attendees can meet with leading vendors and service providers. Come meet PCI in the expo hall at booth 3!

  • Stay up-to-date on Industry Trends

Deltek’s offerings continues to grow and evolve, especially with the recent release of Costpoint 8.2. It is important for professionals to stay up-to-date on the newest features and enhancements to gain valuable insights from product experts. Hear tips and tricks from other users on how to get the most out of your Deltek experience.

  • Learn Directly from Deltek Experts

Deltek is filled with experts who are uniquely positioned to provide insights and guidance on how to get the most from their products. At Deltek ProjectCon, attendees can learn directly from these experts via in-depth training sessions. This provides unparalleled access to the people who know the products best and can help attendees optimize their use of Deltek software.

  • Have Fun While you Learn

While Deltek ProjectCon is a serious business event, it’s also designed to be fun and engaging. From social events like happy hours and networking receptions to interactive exhibits and live demonstrations, there’s plenty to see and do throughout the conference. This creates a dynamic and lively atmosphere that makes learning and networking more enjoyable and memorable.

We hope to see you there! Register now to attend!

Satisfy Every Need of your Government Contracting Business with PCI

Running a successful Government Contracting practice can be challenging. With so many business aspects to consider, it can be easy to get overwhelmed. But don’t worry, PCI has you covered. Our client solutions are designed to help you conquer your practice goals and achieve new levels of success.

We offer a wide range of products and services that are not only budget-friendly but also user-friendly, allowing you to focus on what really matters – taking care of your bottom line. And the best part? Our solutions are incredibly beneficial, meaning you can increase your revenue while being provided top-notch care.

So why wait? Let PCI help you take your business to the next level.

Deltek Costpoint Services

For more than 14 years, PCI has been a trusted provider of implementation and service support for Deltek Costpoint. Our experienced consultants have hands-on knowledge of this ERP system and can offer expert guidance, training, and support to ensure your organization’s success in setting up the system. Check out our Costpoint Service Offerings here.

ARCH – Travel & Expense

Introducing PCI’s ARCH program: the ultimate travel booking and credit card reconciliation package suite for today’s Government Contractor. With ARCH, you can seamlessly integrate your travel booking process, reconcile credit card transactions, and effortlessly transfer data to Deltek’s Costpoint expense solution. Streamline your operations and stay compliant with ARCH.

Learn more about ARCH here.

Astrata API Integrations

Level up your solutions with PCI’s Astrata API integrations. Simplify your operational processes by consolidating them into fewer tools. Our powerful integration capabilities will empower your team to efficiently manage projects and gain comprehensive insights into your business.

Managed Accounting Services

Rest easy knowing your accounting is being handled for you! PCI’s staff is experienced in Deltek Costpoint accounting needs. We can save you time and money by handling your accounting tasks from bookkeeping to CFO level support. See the Managed Accounting Services PCI has to offer here.

Be sure to contact us today to set up time to discuss your business needs!

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Why Compliance is Essential to your Government Contracting Success

Attention all government contractors – compliance is essential to your success!

Here are 5 reasons why prioritizing compliance should be your top goal for 2023:

Protect your business: Stay out of legal trouble and avoid hefty fines by following guidelines and regulations.

Stay ahead of the competition: Showing your commitment to compliance can give you an edge in winning government contracts and setting you apart from the competition.

Promote ethical behavior: Be proud of your business’s ethical standards and boost employee morale, while gaining public trust.

Be prepared: Audits are a regular part of contracting – be ready for any audit by staying compliant and avoiding costly penalties.

Keep up with regulatory changes: Don’t get left behind – prioritize compliance to stay informed of any regulatory changes and adjust your business practices accordingly.

Remember, by prioritizing compliance in 2023, you can protect your business, stay competitive, promote ethical behavior, be prepared for audits, and stay on top of changing regulations. Keep your business thriving and avoid costly fines and legal problems by focusing on compliance now.

Learn more on how PCI can help you with your compliance needs by contacting us today!

What to Keep in Mind when Creating a Compensation Plan and Writing Policy

Writing down, is one of the easiest things companies, especially small companies and can do to support and explain the compensation paid to employees. Even if you don’t intend to change anything about the methodology, just having it formally documented and accessible to the necessary people can keep you in compliance with FAR and keep you from having compensation questioned.

FAR 31.205-6(a)(3) states that, the compensation must be based upon and conform to the terms and conditions of the contractor’s established compensation plan or practice followed so consistently as to imply, in effect, an agreement to make the payment. Proving that you are following a practice to this level of consistency is very difficult when you have multiple nuances within each employment agreement. Writing down the company’s methods and the potentially negotiable elements of compensation within that company is much faster and simpler than trying to convince an auditor that you’re consistent. Even just from the perspective that the Head of HR, CEO, and auditor alone will all have three differing views on consistency.

When establishing a compensation plan and writing a policy, keep in mind a few influencing factors:

  1. Compensation needs to be reviewed annually
  2. Identify the surveys, market indices, and other benchmarking tools that will be utilized
  3. Establish who is responsible for reviewing compensation by job category and identify factors that could play into the planning
  4. Consider a range of compensation by job class or labor category, in lieu of more finite written policies
  5. Make it known how and what is necessary to fall at a lower or higher amount within the established range, e.g. time with the company, higher education, continuing education, etc.

Additionally, FAR 31.205-6(f)(1) specifies that bonuses and other incentive compensation are only allowable if there is a written plan, an established practice consistent enough to imply an agreement, or a documented agreement with each employee that was paid a bonus and included in the indirect rate pool. Again, my perspective is that the easiest way to comply with FAR and substantiate the costs if they were to be audited, is to have a written plan from the get-go. This makes the situation much more controllable by the company and makes auditor subjectivity less variable. It also outlines procedures to be followed across the board as the company grows and potentially more people are involved in the bonus process.

When establishing a bonus plan and writing a policy, keep in mind a few influencing factors:

  1. Bonuses are only allowable if an agreement/plan was established prior to an employee performing the work
  2. The plan must identify who is eligible for bonuses, when bonuses are paid, and how bonus amounts will be calculated
  3. A basis of why the employee is receiving a bonus must be documented for every employee and every bonus, e.g. a standard form, written supervisor reviews, annual performance matrix, etc. This is required documentation whether the company chooses to enter into individual agreements or chooses to have a standing policy.
  4. Profits cannot be disguised as costs by distributing them as bonuses, including formal profit-sharing plans. It is important to emphasize employee performance metrics that determine bonuses when writing a plan and not to discuss or identify company performance as a factor to narrow the gap on subjectivity even further.

  Learn more about Compensation and Policy Audits here in our recent on demand webinar.

The API Integration Process

Written by: Sandy Froonjian

In my previous article, I provided a general overview of what the API team at PCI does. In this article, I’m going to get more technical and explain the details of how we work with our clients to accomplish that integration. To begin integrating, the client must be set-up within both software programs. We typically integrate Deltek’s Costpoint and WorkBook products, but we can connect to various other software programs as needed. For the sake of simplicity, I will reference Costpoint in this article.

Once Costpoint is implemented, the customer will contact a PCI Sales Representative and  describe the integration they require. For example, what third-party software are they using? Which module within Deltek/Costpoint do they want connected? Which fields within the module do they want populated? Which way(s) do they want the data to flow? Once the PCI Sales Rep has a good understanding of what the client needs, a proposal is created for them. The proposal will contain all the answers to the above questions, as well as the final cost of the integration.

            After the proposal is signed, the API team jumps in! The API team consists of a Project Manager, a Principal Consultant, and Software Engineer(s). Once the team is assigned, we first meet for a kick-off call, where we introduce ourselves, outline the steps of your integration, and give you a timeframe for each part of process. We will also schedule a weekly meeting series so that both parties can stay up to date on the progress.

            The first order of business for the API team is obtaining access to both your third-party system and Costpoint. Depending on the type of third-party software, we might need to get credentials to connect to its API’s, SFTP site, and/or SSL certificates. If we do not have access to your Costpoint system at this stage, we will connect through a VPN. The team then creates a WIC (Web Integration Console) environment for the client, which is an exact copy of their Costpoint system that is only used for testing purposes.

            Once we have all the access components we need, the next step is to complete a mapping document with the client. This is where customization comes into play. Because we are working with two completely different systems, the fields found in each system don’t align perfectly. Therefore, we need to discuss with the client how they want data in one system to flow into the other. This often involves creating crosswalks because the two systems might contain data of the same field in different formats. For instance, the field “Organization” in system 1 might be a text format such as “Premier Consulting and Integration”, while in system 2 it might be a numerical format such as “1.01.01.02”.

            After the API team and the client complete the mapping for every field, the Software Engineer can then code the function. The mapping file acts as the blueprints for the coder to create the API. Once they are done coding, we move into the testing phase. During this phase, we have the client make any possible test changes they see fit, so we can account for all possible scenarios while we are still pointed at the client’s WIC environment. Also, during this phase, the function is automated to run on whatever schedule the client asks for.

            Finally, once both parties are confident that all testing scenarios have been accounted for and that the API is working as intended, the engineer then points the function at the client’s production environment. At this point, the API is officially live! The API team provides one last meeting for the client called the “Dashboard Review.” During this review, we provide access to our Astrata dashboard site where the client  can monitor all the logs/run of the function moving forward. They also have the ability on this site to submit support tickets directly to the API team if they run into issues or concerns.

The amount of time that the entire integration process takes varies. If it’s an integration that we have done before, it can be as quick as 5-6 weeks, but if it’s a brand-new integration, it can take 7-8 weeks.

The diagram below summarizes the entire integration process:

So. Many. Passwords.

Doesn’t it feel like you need a different password for everything you do nowadays? Need a password to listen to music, need a password to order Chick-Fil-A, need a password to do your timesheet. Everything we touch needs a password and they never need to be updated at the same time, so you need to remember 10 different variations of a password at any given time.


Well one area that we can help make life easier is by having Single Sign On (SSO) for accessing Deltek Costpoint. From a company perspective most of us already have Microsoft Azure in place and aren’t taking full advantage of the efficiencies it can provide us with our day to day tasks. This is one of the ways to take advantage of it! 


We are able to connect your SSO (Azure, Okta, Ping, AFDS) to Costpoint so that you and all your end users can consolidate your passwords. The setup and switch to using Single Sign On is quite easy: 

  • Submit the service request with Deltek Cloud Solutions to connect your Costpoint and your SSO
  • Setup Costpoint as an application on your SSO Platform 
  • Test the SSO and CP connection 
  • Roll out Single Sign On to your end user

Not only does this help with efficiencies but now your Costpoint password credentials and expiration policy will align with your internal security policies, which is helpful as we all prepare for upcoming FedRamp and CMMC requirements. 

Interested in learning more about how PCI can assist your SSO requirements? Contact us today!