CHESS (Computer Hardware Enterprise Software And Solutions)

What is CHESS (Computer Hardware Enterprise Software And Solutions)?

Computer Hardware Enterprise Software and Solutions (CHESS) is the U.S. Army's designated primary source for commercial information technology (IT). CHESS provides a readily available procurement route for Army organizations to acquire the necessary IT hardware, software, and services. This approach aims to reduce costs and increase efficiency in IT procurement.

Definition

CHESS is a centrally managed program within the Program Executive Office Enterprise Information Systems (PEO EIS). It establishes and maintains Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity (ID/IQ) contracts with various vendors to provide a wide range of commercial IT products and services. Army organizations leverage CHESS contracts to quickly and efficiently acquire IT solutions compliant with Army standards and regulations. CHESS matters to government contractors because it serves as a gateway to access substantial IT procurement opportunities within the Army. It operates under the authority and guidance of the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) and the Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS), ensuring compliance and best practices in procurement.

Key Points

• Streamlined Procurement: CHESS provides a streamlined process for Army organizations to procure commercial IT, reducing the time and administrative burden associated with traditional procurement methods.
• Pre-vetted Vendors: All CHESS vendors are pre-vetted and their offerings are reviewed for compliance with Army standards, ensuring quality and security.
• Variety of IT Solutions: CHESS covers a broad spectrum of IT products and services, including hardware, software, and IT-related services, catering to diverse Army IT needs.
• Cost Savings: By leveraging economies of scale and pre-negotiated pricing, CHESS helps Army organizations achieve cost savings in their IT procurements.

Practical Examples

1. Software License Acquisition: An Army unit needs to purchase a specific software license for its personnel. Instead of going through a lengthy competitive bidding process, the unit can procure the software directly through a CHESS contract.
2. Hardware Refresh: An Army data center requires an upgrade of its server infrastructure. The data center can utilize a CHESS contract to quickly procure the necessary hardware from pre-approved vendors at competitive prices.
3. IT Support Services: An Army command requires IT support services for its deployed personnel. The command can use a CHESS contract to obtain reliable and compliant IT support services from qualified vendors.