Final answer:
The question is about the methods by which companies can participate in the National Industrial Security Program, linking to the broader topic of the privatization of government services, and the differences in operational pressures between government agencies and private entities.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question refers to the process through which private companies can become a part of the National Industrial Security Program (NISP), either through sponsorship by a Government Contracting Activity (GCA) or by self-sponsorship.
This topic is part of a broader discussion about the privatization of government services and how governmental agencies, as opposed to private companies, do not operate in a competitive market environment and are funded through tax dollars.
Historically, issuing government contracts to private companies has been a significant form of privatization, with notable increases during the administrations of President Clinton and President Bush.
Entities like the Department of Defense, for instance, have extensively contracted out services that were traditionally done by the military to private corporations.
Such privatization efforts, while potentially increasing efficiency, also shift the traditional roles and responsibilities between the government and the private sector.
The pressure for governmental agencies to improve efficiency and customer responsiveness is unlike the market pressures facing private firms, as the government does not face direct competition or the risk of bankruptcy based on performance.
Political pressure and leadership changes are the primary methods of affecting change within these agencies.