70--Brandname Justificaton - Cisco

The US Department of Veterans Affairs, Corporate Franchise Datacenter (CFD) anticipates a competitive procurement for Cisco brand name equipment off of the NASA SEWP IV Contract. This brand name intent is for reasons of performance, cost, and time. This acquisition is for additional network components. In accordance with the CFD's standardization program, Cisco brand switches are required for compatibility and interoperability with current network architecture, security plans, and enterprise maintenance agreements. Purchase of non-compatible equipment will put undue risk on network support infrastructures, increase risk of network outages, and cause need for additional training and follow-on maintenance contracts above and beyond the VA's Enterprise Support Agreement with Cisco. Responses to this notice must be in writing and must be received by 12:00pm cst on July 23, 2007. Third party firms will be considered only if responding with clear and convincing evidence that the Government will avoid additional cost of ownership and production will not be effected if non-Cisco equipment is purchased. The determination to open brand name competition based on responses is solely with in the discretion of the Government. No additional synopsis will be published, and a solicitation will only be issued to SEWP IV contract holders, regardless of the Government's brand name decision. Responses should be emailed to contact@example.gov or faxed to +1 (555) 000-0000.