D -- Annual Maintenance for Stellent Software

The Department of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), intends to negotiate a single source purchase order with FORCE3, Inc., located in Crofton, Maryland, for annual maintenance of the Stellent software. This procurement will use Simplified Acquisition procedures under the authority of 41 U.S.C. 253c(1) and comply with the Federal Acquisition Regulations Part 12 through Federal Acquisition Circular 2005-5. The contract is planned for a one-year period and aims to maintain essential software that is widely used enterprise-wide within NOAA. Transitioning to a different software solution is considered impractical due to the extensive use within the agency and significant associated costs for alternatives. FORCE3, Inc. is the sole direct supplier of Stellent software in the U.S., with no resellers involved. NOAA has invested heavily in training personnel to utilize the Stellent software, reinforcing the decision to continue maintenance with the current supplier. The contract solicitation number is DG133R-05-RQ-1904, with the office located in Silver Spring, Maryland. Key points of contact include the Contract Specialist Sandra K. Shaffner and Contracting Officer Mario A. Checchia. The decision for a sole source procurement is based on timeliness, cost-effectiveness, and the uniqueness of FORCE3’s product and services in supporting NOAA’s software infrastructure.