70--INTENT TO SOLE SOURCE
ID: PANMCC24P0000011983Type: Special Notice
Overview

Buyer

DEPT OF DEFENSEDEPT OF THE ARMY

NAICS

Software Publishers (513210)

PSC

IT AND TELECOM - BUSINESS APPLICATION SOFTWARE (PERPETUAL LICENSE SOFTWARE) (7A21)

Original Source

https://sam.gov/opp/32d9d7d6808646cc816a5c5f61cf52ca/view
Timeline
    Description

    The Department of Defense, specifically the Department of the Army, intends to award a sole-source contract for the flexMIRT Software License to Vector Psychometric Group, LLC, located in Chapel Hill, NC. This procurement is essential for the Defense Language Institute at the Presidio of Monterey, as the software is crucial for analyzing item response data from the Defense Language Proficiency Test, ensuring testing accuracy and reliability through its unique multi-dimensional item response theory (MIRT) capabilities. The urgency of this acquisition is underscored by the need to maintain operational efficiency in military language proficiency assessments, with the contract expected to be awarded in fiscal year 2024. Interested parties may submit documentation demonstrating their capability to fulfill the requirement by September 10, 2024, and should direct inquiries to Jesse Bahr at jesse.c.bahr.civ@army.mil or Amy Potter at amy.n.potter5.civ@army.mil.

    Files
    Title
    Posted
    20240710_Intent_to_Sole_Source_FlexMirt_Software (1).pdf
    The government intends to award a sole-source contract to Vector Psychometric Group, LLC for a firm fixed price flexMIRT Software License. The procurement is justified under 10 U.S.C. 2304(c)(1) and FAR 13.106-1(b). While the notice is not a request for competition, the government will consider any responses received within 7 days. To be considered, interested parties must demonstrate a bonafide capability to fulfill the requirement and provide clear and convincing evidence that competition would benefit the government. This information will be used to determine whether to proceed with a competitive procurement. Any responses should be emailed to the specified address by the provided deadline.
    JA_Limiting Competition flexMIRT Software_Redacted.pdf
    The document outlines a sole-source justification for the procurement of flexMIRT software by the Defense Language Institute at the Presidio of Monterey, as part of an impending firm-fixed-price contract for fiscal year 2024. This software is essential for analyzing item response data from the Defense Language Proficiency Test to maintain testing accuracy and reliability. The justification emphasizes that no alternative software can perform the required multi-variate, multi-dimensional item response theory (MIRT) analysis effectively. FlexMIRT, developed by Vector Psychometric Group, LLC, is noted for its specialized features that meet the government's needs, including high-speed processing and the ability to manage large datasets exceeding 20,000 cases. Market research reveals that other statistical solutions lack comparable capabilities. The document highlights the urgency and necessity of acquiring this software to prevent delays in military decision-making reliant on testing outcomes. It includes certifications of accuracy regarding the justification and confirms that competition is infeasible due to the proprietary nature of the software.
    JA_Limiting Competition Over SAT 250K-700K_flez Mirt Software_FY24.pdf
    The government seeks a sole-source procurement of flexMIRT software from Vector Psychometric Group, LLC, under the Simplified Procedures for Certain Commercial Items. This software is crucial for the Defense Language Institute Foreign Language Center's Language Proficiency Assessment Directorate, which requires a robust analytical software package for processing large volumes of Defense Language Proficiency Test response data. With its multi-variate, multi-dimensional item response theory analysis capabilities, flexMIRT is the only software that meets the government's specialized needs. As it's not available through standard government channels, and no other software can match its capabilities, a sole-source justification is submitted, citing unusual and compelling urgency. The procurement is essential for maintaining the accuracy and timeliness of language proficiency assessments, which are critical for military operations. The total projected cost for this essential software renewal is $488,542.00, covering a three-year period.
    Product Specs flexMIRT.docx
    The memorandum from the Department of the Army details the product specifications required for the flexible multi-level multi-dimensional item analysis and test scoring software, known as flexMIRT. It emphasizes the need for compliance with the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR), specifically regarding brand name or equivalent product descriptions. The document lists essential technical specifications and salient features that any potential replacement software must possess to qualify for consideration. It highlights the exclusive offering of multi-dimensional Item Response Theory (MIRT) modeling by the current developer, Vector Psychometric Group, LLC, indicating that only software with matching capabilities will be acceptable for procurement. This memorandum outlines the commitment to acquiring a robust software solution, ensuring that it meets stringent requirements for military language proficiency assessments.
    W91QF4-24-Q-0082_solicitation.pdf
    This government document outlines a solicitation for the acquisition of flexMIRT software licenses for the Defense Language Institute Foreign Language Center (DLIFLC). The primary purpose is to provide a comprehensive software solution that includes operational licensing, virtual training, and support for a large user base, with an emphasis on delivering robust functionality for up to 150,000 examinees annually. The contract specifies various delivery timelines, inspection processes, and payment instructions, emphasizing compliance with federal acquisition regulations. Additionally, it highlights the roles of contracting officers and incorporates numerous contractual clauses that apply to commercial products and services. This solicitation illustrates the government's commitment to enhancing language training capabilities through advanced technological solutions while adhering to regulations designed to protect interests and ensure accountability. The offer is due by September 10, 2024, and details regarding contract management and vendor responsibilities are provided throughout the document.
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    70--INTENT TO SOLE SOURCE
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