The Office of the Under Secretary of Defense (Acquisition and Sustainment) has issued a Sources Sought Request for Information (RFI) to gather input for the Defense Acquisition Visibility Environment (DAVE) and Acquisition Information Repository (AIR) Support. DAVE serves as a centralized platform for managing authoritative acquisition data, while AIR stores critical documentation for acquisition lifecycle milestones. The agency seeks a contractor to utilize agile methodologies to sustain and enhance these systems, adjusting to changes in policy and security requirements. The anticipated contract award date is June 16, 2025. Responses are requested to a series of corporate experience and capability questions, focusing on recent engagements with the technologies used in DAVE and AIR, particularly emphasizing experience in software development, cloud environments, and security compliance. The document outlines expectations for contractor responsibilities, performance measures, and subcontracting information. This RFI is part of the Department of Defense's broader strategy to improve its $2 trillion acquisition portfolio management through better data accessibility and insight.
The Performance Work Statement (PWS) for the DAVE Capability Sustainment outlines the requirements for a contractor to sustain, maintain, and enhance the DAVE platform, which provides critical acquisition data to the Department of Defense. Central concepts include “Capability Delivery” and “Capability Sustainment,” which encompass software development, maintenance, technical compliance, and training. The contractor will utilize Agile methodologies to ensure timely delivery of software enhancements, with specific performance metrics such as completing 80-90 story points per sprint.
The document emphasizes the need for efficient integration of new data sources, functional testing, and strong DevSecOps support, particularly in database and systems administration. Major tasks include sustaining DAVE and the Acquisition Information Repository (AIR), conducting independent testing, and providing operational support across multiple environments.
Performance metrics are outlined, focusing on development velocities, system availability, automated testing coverage, and recovery times from outages. The contractor must adhere to quality standards for deliverables, including accuracy and timeliness. Personnel requirements involve key positions such as a Program Manager, Lead Developer, and DevSecOps Lead, all requiring specific experience and clearances. This initiative underscores the government’s commitment to effective acquisition data management and informed decision-making across its acquisition portfolio.