The document is a Request for Information (RFI) from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), intended solely for planning purposes and not for receiving quotes or engaging in negotiations. It outlines the VA's goal of integrating responsible AI use to enhance services for veterans, overseen by the Office of the Chief Artificial Intelligence Officer (OCAIO). The RFI seeks input from industry partners on a Draft Performance Work Statement related to AI program governance and support. Interested vendors are asked to provide detailed submissions highlighting relevant work experience, demonstrating capabilities in AI governance frameworks, risk assessment, compliance, and operational adaptability. The document also requests constructive feedback on various procurement elements, including contract types, performance requirements, and deliverables. Vendors must indicate their company information and business status, ensuring that proprietary data is marked appropriately. This RFI reflects the government's strategy to effectively engage industry expertise in AI while ensuring compliance with federal standards and enhancing service delivery to veterans.
The Performance Work Statement (PWS) for the Department of Veterans Affairs outlines a contract aimed at establishing an Artificial Intelligence (AI) governance framework to enhance services for Veterans while ensuring ethical and secure AI deployment. The VA Office of the Chief Technology Officer (OCTO) and the Office of the Chief Artificial Intelligence Officer (OCAIO) seek to minimize risks associated with AI technologies and uphold core values around safety, privacy, and accountability.
Key objectives include developing policies for ethical AI use, managing an inventory of AI projects, and ensuring compliance with federal standards. Desired outcomes focus on improved service delivery, increased transparency, enhanced trust from Veterans, and mechanisms to mitigate bias and protect personal information.
The contractor will develop and implement a comprehensive AI governance process, engage stakeholders, and provide ongoing support for AI use case evaluations. Deliverables encompass a streamlined review process for AI applications, procedures for addressing issues, and continuous refinement of governance practices.
The contract spans six months with two optional one-year extensions and emphasizes agile development methodologies. The contractor is expected to maintain clear communication with VA leadership, ensure adherence to security standards, and manage resources effectively throughout the project lifecycle.