GSA releases RFI on Networx replacement

The General Services Administration has taken another step in developing the follow-on to the Networx telecommunications contract, and they are looking for input from industry.

The General Services Administration has taken another step in developing the follow-on to the massive Networx telecommunications contract. GSA released a request for information April 8 on the infrastructure aspect of the new program known as Network Services 2020.

GSA’s Federal Acquisition Service is gathering input on NS2020’s Enterprise Infrastructure Solutions (EIS) initiative. EIS is one of six aspects of NS2020. Officials want industry’s comments on EIS’ acquisition strategy. FAS is considering whether the EIS indefinite-delivery, indefinite-quantity contract should be a 15-year contract, or have a 10-year performance period while allowing task orders to stretch as long as 60 months beyond the contract’s base year.

FAS is also considering to require contractors to provide at least voice and data services. Optional services may be negotiated, but the intent is to offer agencies a comprehensive solution through EIS ordering process. Officials want to avoid multiple competitions across other GSA contract vehicles, which would include additional integration work.

In the RFI, FAS is asking industry which voice and data services should be mandatory, which government-unique services should be mandatory, and which service should be optional services with associated specifications.

NS2020 is the follow-on to the current Networx contract. The goal of the NS2020 Strategy is to become the government’s strategic sourcing center for network-based and network-enabled services. To become the go-to contract, FAS needs to understand telecommunications technology, and regional, national, and worldwide markets.

FAS expects to release an EIS solicitation in the third quarter of fiscal 2015.

The deadline for responding is May 8.