Like most large programs now, the Defense Health Information Technology Systems (DHITS Gen I) procurement is continuing its march to the right. The path forward has so far seen three Industry Days and four RFI surveys. The draft RFP remains incomplete, lacking evaluation factors and other particulars.
The September 14, release date was missed. When I talked to Contracting Officer Sarah Davis on September 22, she said, “I am pushing them to complete the strategy.” I then said, “I heard the program was slowed down by some managers leaving the program.” She answered, “I haven’t left the program, but someone did ask me where I came from.”
We can all hope this 2015 “top five” program will not become a 2016 top five program. Aggregate spending on the program during the past 10 years totals $2.6B. With 22 current contracts and small business goals approaching 40%, this program will undoubtedly generate heavy competition. Rumor has it the program is slowed down by disagreement between the uniform and civilian folks on how to proceed.
Another rumor is that the DHITS program office will remain active, but the DHITS task orders will be competed under the CIO-SP3 contract.
What Should Bidders Be Doing Now to Prepare for DHITS ?
- Complete team building to respond to technical areas
- Fill any gaps in potential required key personnel
- Identify responsive past performance; review CPARS / DPARS.
- Begin capture and proposal team integration through storyboarding potential solutions
- Start outlining and drafting proposal sections
- Hire proposal consultants early to get the best available managers and writers
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