USDA (Department of Agriculture Departmental Information Technology Services)

What is USDA (Department of Agriculture Departmental Information Technology Services)?

USDA's Departmental Information Technology Services (Daitss) is the primary IT service provider for the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Daitss centralizes and standardizes IT operations across the USDA, impacting how government contractors interface with the department's technology infrastructure and procurement processes. Contractors working with the USDA need to understand Daitss's role and requirements.

Definition

Daitss is responsible for managing and maintaining the USDA's IT infrastructure, including networks, servers, applications, and cybersecurity measures. Its goal is to provide efficient, secure, and cost-effective IT services to support the USDA's mission. For government contractors, this means that any IT-related work performed for the USDA must align with Daitss's standards and security protocols. This can include adhering to specific technical requirements, using approved software and hardware, and complying with cybersecurity regulations mandated by Daitss. Understanding Daitss is important because failing to meet their standards can lead to project delays, security vulnerabilities, and contract non-compliance.

Daitss also plays a role in the procurement process for IT-related goods and services within the USDA. They often provide technical specifications and evaluations for IT procurements, influencing which contractors are selected. Contractors should be aware of Daitss's involvement in the procurement process and tailor their proposals accordingly.

Key Points

• Centralized IT Services: Daitss consolidates IT functions across USDA agencies.
• Standardized Protocols: Contractors must adhere to Daitss's IT standards and security requirements.
• Procurement Influence: Daitss influences IT procurement decisions through technical specifications and evaluations.
• Cybersecurity Focus: Daitss emphasizes strong cybersecurity measures, impacting contractor security requirements.

Practical Examples

1. Compliance with Security Protocols: A contractor developing a new software application for the USDA must ensure it complies with Daitss's cybersecurity standards, including data encryption and access controls, before deployment.
2. Adherence to Technical Specifications: When bidding on a USDA contract for network infrastructure upgrades, a contractor must follow Daitss's technical specifications for hardware and software to ensure compatibility with the existing USDA IT environment.
3. Navigating the Procurement Process: A small business offering cloud-based services to the USDA needs to understand Daitss's evaluation criteria for cloud solutions, including security certifications (e.g., FedRAMP) and data residency requirements, to effectively compete for the contract.