The USDA National Finance Center (NFC) is initiating the NFC Forward Program to modernize its human resource and payroll systems through the procurement of a Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) solution. The objective is to replace the existing legacy systems, which currently serve approximately 680,000 Federal employees, with an integrated cloud-based platform that enhances operational efficiency and user experience. Key priorities include improving data quality, strengthening cybersecurity, and introducing advanced capabilities like artificial intelligence and analytics. The procurement will unfold in three phases, starting with a multiple-award prototype selection, followed by a detailed evaluation of vendor solutions to determine the most effective partner for full project implementation over an estimated eight-year period. The USDA invites qualified vendors to respond to an RFI to gather insights and gauge capabilities for system integration and SaaS solutions. Vendors must demonstrate previous experience, particularly in large-scale HR technology implementations, and compliance with federal security authorizations. Anticipated timelines outline key milestones for drafting and finalizing the RFP, prototype phases, and evaluations, with commercial solutions expected to enhance service delivery across approximately 170 customer agencies.

The NFC Forward initiative is preparing for modernization by issuing a Request for Information (RFI) related to the development of a new, integrated HR and payroll solution. Anticipated phases include a prototype phase followed by full implementation, with a draft RFP scheduled for March 2025. Key areas addressed include the scope of work, vendor capabilities, and specific service level agreements (SLAs). The RFI solicits industry feedback on the prototype’s data migration, integration with legacy systems, and evaluation metrics for success. Vendors are encouraged to propose innovative solutions combining HR and payroll functionalities in a cloud-based environment, with emphasis on cybersecurity and compliance with federal standards. The goal is to replace existing payroll systems, streamline operations, and enhance user experience through a phased approach. Moreover, the document outlines expectations for vendor involvement in user training, support, and change management while emphasizing a configuration-based approach to minimize custom code development. The need for competitive responses from diverse suppliers, including small businesses, is highlighted as vital for informing the procurement strategy.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is initiating the NFC Forward Program to modernize its human resource and payroll systems for the National Finance Center (NFC). This Request for Information (RFI) seeks industry partners for a Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) solution, addressing challenges posed by the current legacy systems, including a COBOL-based mainframe processing payroll for approximately 680,000 Federal employees. The NFC Forward Initiative aims to implement a cloud-based platform to streamline HR and payroll functions, enhance user experience, and bolster cybersecurity. The procurement process will consist of a multi-phase approach: Phase I involves a down-selection of vendors, Phase II focuses on prototyping, and Phase III culminates in final vendor selection for full implementation. Vendors must demonstrate their solutions' compliance with mandatory requirements such as FedRAMP Authorization, capability to process large employee volumes, and an integrated platform. Through this initiative, USDA seeks to ensure efficient, standardized financial management solutions across over 170 customer agencies, while gathering crucial information from potential vendors concerning their capacities for this extensive modernization effort.