Computer Software

TITLE: FA4809-10-Q-0364, Sole Source Acquisition for Delcam FeatureMill and FeatureTurn Software The 4th Contracting Squadron, Seymour Johnson AFB, NC intends to award a sole source purchase order to Tri-Mech Manufacturing. Required items to be purchased for Delcam FeatureMill 3D Software (1) Each, Delcam FeatureTurn Software add-on (1) each and Software Maintenance (includes upgrades and phone support in support of the 916th Air Refueling Squadron. APPLICABILITY OF AUTHORITY: Delcam FeatureMill and FeatureTurn software is already in use throughout the Air Force, including the 4th Maintenance Group. For compatibility purposes, the 916th needs to be able to transfer drawings, schematics, and blueprints to and from other Air Force units. FeatureMill is also used at known deployed locations. 916th is required to locally manufacture replacement parts for the KC-135R and must at times use blueprints from other bases. The HAAS Mini Milling Machine, Wells Index CNC Milling Machine, and the HAAS TL2 Lathe are currently used to produce these parts. If this software isn't used, accuracy in aircraft parts creation cannot be guaranteed, and errors can, and most likely will occur, due to technical conversion issues. While quality controls will almost certainly catch these errors, there is the possibility for some to pass undetected. This could lead to in-flight malfunctions and other flight and ground safety issues. Using the proper validated blueprints without having to go through the conversion process will keep safety at its peak, and prevent a drop in efficiency by having to re-create those parts that are found defective through the quality process. Currently existing blueprints have been created using this software at locations throughout the Air Force, and if any other software were used, these plans would require re-validation with the potential for having to be completely redone. In addition to safety and re-validation, the members of the 916th machine shop are already trained and qualified on this software. Their competence, productivity and efficiency would be greatly reduced during the relearning process of different software. There are significant terminology differences between software, as well as the amount of steps required to accomplish tasks. Throughout the learning, and the production phases, both the potential for errors in parts creation, as well as the time required, is increased. This purchase will be made under Simplified Acquisition Procedures and Other Than Full and Open Competition as authorized by FAR 6.302-1(a)(2)(ii). Only One Responsible Source and No Other Supplies or Services Will Satisfy Agency Requirements. This notice of intent is not a request for competitive proposals. A determination by the government not to compete this proposed contract lies solely within the discretion of the Government. Information received will be considered solely for the purpose of determining whether to conduct a competitive requirement. The closing date for this synopsis is 27 Sep 10 at 10:00 A.M. Eastern Standard Time. The anticipated award date is 28 Sep 10. For information regarding this purchase, please contact Judy Taylor at +1 (555) 000-0000 or SSgt Ian Buschmann at +1 (555) 000-0000