MARINE CORPS AIR STATION MIRAMAR, Calif. -- In the past, Marines themselves have taken care of their computer support and network infrastructure throughout the Marine Corps through computer network and systems operations.

A plan was created and is now being implemented to switch that control from Marines to civilians.

"This means during this transition, customer service is changing and the customers, for the most part, are uninformed as to what's going on," said Cpl. Justin Schreiter, of Miramar's Operations Office. "(Headquarters Marine Corps) says the outside company can do the same job the Marines are doing, only cheaper and more efficiently."

Larry L. Norris, Miramar's Site Transition officer-in-charge says the Department of the Navy developed a concept for the Navy and Marine Corps Information Technology to incorporate enhanced technology, increase information assurance and ensure connectivity between the Navy and Marine Corps.

"We're using Texas-based Electronic Data Systems Corporation (EDS), as our contractors," said Norris.

The reason for the change is the Marine Corps no longer has the funds needed to keep up with today's technology.

"With this system, we'll all be under one umbrella, with all fees being paid up front," said Norris. "Everything is at a set price, no matter how much it goes up in price on the market."

With this contract, the Marines will receive a new computer every three years to ensure they are getting the most up-to-date technology.

The other change users will see is that they will no longer be able to call their helpdesk if they encounter a problem.

"They will have to call a regional toll-free help line, that may be located in Pensacola, to get assistance," said Norris.

Moving locations, adding an additional component, or changing something on your computer, called a move, add, or change (MAC) could take up to 30 days.

"A MAC goes through several databases to approve or disapprove funds before it gets to the contractor that implements it," said Norris. "The initial cost of the computer system is paid through Headquarters Marine Corps, any changes, such as a flat screen or a wireless keyboard, will come out of the base operating funds."

If you call the helpdesk for a problem, they are required to call you back within 20 minutes to start fixing your problem, then 24 working hours to repair your computer.

"They have to speak with you personally, and will take over your computer in order to fix the problem," said Norris.

The Marine Corps is ensuring control by having a service level agreement in the contract.

"They have to stay at the height of support, or the Marine Corps won't pay," said Norris.

The entire process began about two years ago, and contractors have been on station evaluating the Marine Corps' needs since October of 2003.

"They're surveying things such as the number of users, the number of fiber optic cables needed, and testing different software," said Norris. "The official change over date is April 1st of this year."

Working on an event driven concept, the entire process is supposed to take six to eight months to complete.

"Most Marines currently working at G-6 will be sent back out to the fleet, very few will ever work on a base or a station," said Norris. "Deployed units will be able to take their computer out for the duration of the deployment. Upon returning, NMCI will take back over."

There will be a lot of changes, but it's the most cost effective way for the Marine Corps to keep up with today's technology.