Oddly enough it sometimes helps to go further up the IA chain- the program/acquisition IA guys are usually retired prior who just want to get a check, but if you can reach higher level service branch or OSD IA oversight staff they are usually more motivated and tech savvy, and more willing to help/give suggestions rather than just say 'no, try again'.

We just had a meeting this week where we did just this. We are also going higher up the program management chain.