Veterans Affairs Knowledge Network Satellite Downlink Maintenance
ID: 36C10A25Q0020Type: Sources Sought
Overview

Buyer

VETERANS AFFAIRS, DEPARTMENT OFVETERANS AFFAIRS, DEPARTMENT OFTECHNOLOGY ACQUISITION CENTER AUSTIN (36C10A)AUSTIN, TX, 78744, USA

NAICS

Wired Telecommunications Carriers (517111)

PSC

IT AND TELECOM - NETWORK: SATELLITE AND RF COMMUNICATIONS PRODUCTS (HW, PERPETUAL LICENSE SOFTWARE) (7G22)
Timeline
    Description

    The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking vendors to provide maintenance and support for the Veterans Affairs Knowledge Network (VAKN) Satellite Downlink system. This procurement aims to ensure the efficient operation and maintenance of approximately 200 downlink satellite antennas across various VA facilities, which are crucial for delivering educational content to VA staff and Veterans. The contractor will be responsible for routine maintenance, technical support, equipment replacement, and new installations, with a focus on minimizing disruption to VA personnel while adhering to federal information security and privacy regulations. Interested vendors must submit their capabilities and relevant information by February 18, 2025, to Marcus Rivers at marcus.rivers@va.gov, as part of the Request for Information process under RFI number 36C10A25Q0020.

    Point(s) of Contact
    Files
    Title
    Posted
    The Performance Work Statement (PWS) outlines the requirements for the maintenance and support of the Veterans Affairs Knowledge Network (VAKN) Satellite Downlink system. This initiative aims to ensure efficient operation and maintenance of approximately 200 downlink satellite antennas across various VA facilities, providing vital educational content to VA staff and Veterans. The contractor will be responsible for routine maintenance, technical support, equipment replacement, and new installations, with a primary focus on minimizing disruption to VA personnel. Key tasks include project management, reporting, site maintenance, and the installation of digital satellite systems, along with adherence to strict federal information security and privacy regulations. The contractor’s performance will be evaluated based on predefined metrics and service level agreements. The document stresses the importance of integrating new services, particularly the Veteran News Network, which enhances patient engagement. The performance period lasts 12 months with two optional extension periods. The overarching goal is to sustain and modernize the satellite communication infrastructure as part of the VA's commitment to delivering quality services to Veterans and staff, coupled with ensuring compliance with various federal mandates and VA directives. This PWS serves as a pivotal guideline for contractors interested in bidding for these services under government regulations.
    The document is a Request for Information (RFI) issued by the government under RFI number 36C10A25Q0020, aimed at gathering input from vendors regarding their capabilities to supply specific products and services. This RFI serves as a planning tool and does not represent a binding solicitation or commitment to award contracts. Respondents are required to submit detailed information regarding their company, including size, socio-economic status, and existing contracts, by the deadline of February 18, 2025. The information collected will assist the government in understanding market capabilities and determining appropriate procurement strategies, particularly regarding potential set-asides for small businesses. Vendors must provide specifications relating to their experience and technical abilities, avoiding generic marketing materials. The RFI emphasizes that all submissions will become government property and are voluntary while also clarifying that the government holds no obligation to compensate respondents for their submissions. This process is integral to the government's market research efforts in aligning procurement with industry capabilities.
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