November 17, 2014

The run up to the HITSS II contract has been like a roller coaster ride for the bidders. On November 13, we learned that this contract is now becoming an IDIQ vehicle rather than a BPA, with NAICS code changes, plus the acquisition tracks are revised. Also, due to technical limitations, the webinar previously envisioned has been changed to an Industry Day meeting at the Department of State, location to be named. The date for the meeting is still to be scheduled . The November 13th FBO Synopsis added the following updates:

1. Revised acquisition tracks and NACIS Code to include: Track 1 for 8(a) Business (NAICS Code 54519) Track 2 for HubZone, SDVOSB and EDWOSB NAICS Code 54519 and Track 3 for Small Business (NAICS Code 517110, size standard 1500 employees.)
2. Change contract type from BPA to IDIQ.
3. Provide the qualifications for the advisory multi-step down-selection process as defined in their Attachment 1.

This long-delayed program is now picking up speed. Although Deltek’s prediction of a November release is probably too ambitious, it will likely come out soon.

Background of HITSS
The HITSS program has helped the Department of State maximize its small business contracting goals by being limited to small business primes. State has increased small business contract dollars from 34% to 38% of domestic spending between 2011 and 2014.

Released in 2006, the HITSS I program was designed for facilities in the United States (CONUS) and abroad (OCONUS) to purchase general IT services from small businesses. State is now preparing the HITSS II acquisition as a small business set-aside. So far, they have missed every schedule date posted to the Federal Business Opportunities (www.fbo.gov) website to move the program forward.

Competitive Structure of the Acquisition
Three acquisition tracks are planned as described above. A down-selection process using an Advisory Multi-Step process (evaluation criteria) will be utilized. These are:
• Small and/or Small Disadvantaged Business Status Certification
• Current GSA IT Schedule 70 contract holder and annual volume for past three years.
• Top Secret Facility and Secret Personnel
• 508 Compliance and Corporate Experience in 508 Testing
• Adequacy of Corporate financial infrastructure

Likely Release Date
• Late 2014 or early 2015
• An Industry Awareness Conference will be held at DOS facilities, but the date has not been set

Where to be before RFP Release
Identify your strengths and weakness to perform this contract. Complete researching the competitive landscape, and have firms with past performance to fill your gaps selected. Obtain a qualified capture manager to help develop your strategy and solution to the Department’s needs. Identify your internal resources that can contribute to the effort. If needed, hire consultants in advance rather than at the last minute when the experienced talent is taken.

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