T4 (Transformation Twenty One Total Technology)

What is T4 (Transformation Twenty One Total Technology)?

Transformation Twenty-One Total Technology (T4) is a large, multiple-award Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contract vehicle used by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to procure a wide range of information technology (IT) services and solutions. It's designed to modernize the VA's IT infrastructure and improve services for veterans. For government contractors, T4 represents a significant opportunity to provide IT solutions to one of the largest federal agencies.

Definition

The T4 program was established to provide the VA with a streamlined and efficient way to acquire IT services necessary to support its mission. This includes everything from infrastructure upgrades and software development to cybersecurity enhancements and data management. T4 is a contract vehicle, not a specific technology or product. It allows the VA to issue task orders for specific IT needs to a pre-selected group of contractors. The legal basis for T4 stems from federal acquisition regulations allowing for IDIQ contracts and the VA's specific statutory authorities to procure goods and services. Its importance to contractors lies in the potential for large-scale, long-term engagements with the VA, but also requires understanding the unique demands and compliance requirements of the VA's IT environment.

Key Points

• Scope of Services: T4 covers a broad spectrum of IT services, making it attractive to a diverse range of IT contractors.
• Task Order Competition: While T4 provides a pathway to doing business with the VA, contractors must still compete rigorously for individual task orders.
• VA-Specific Requirements: Contractors must be familiar with VA policies, procedures, and security requirements, including data privacy and compliance with federal regulations like FISMA.
• Performance-Based Contracting: The VA often utilizes performance-based contracting under T4, meaning payment is tied to achieving specific outcomes or deliverables.

Practical Examples

1. Cybersecurity Enhancement: The VA might issue a task order under T4 to improve its cybersecurity posture, requiring contractors to implement new security controls, conduct vulnerability assessments, and provide incident response services.
2. Software Development: The VA could use T4 to develop and deploy new software applications to streamline administrative processes or improve veteran access to healthcare services.
3. Infrastructure Modernization: A task order might focus on upgrading the VA's IT infrastructure, including replacing outdated hardware, implementing cloud-based solutions, and improving network performance.