D -- Websphere DataStage Support

The Military Sealift Command (MSC) plans to procure Websphere DataStage Premier Support exclusively from International Business Machines Corporation (IBM) through a sole source acquisition. IBM will deliver support and maintenance services including e-Service, telephone support, and product problem support, as well as provide MSC with all product releases, maintenance releases, or rapid releases for the duration of the contract period, which runs until September 30, 2006. This procurement is justified under federal regulations allowing non-competitive contracting when only one responsible source can fulfill the agency’s specific requirements. MSC contends that IBM is uniquely capable of providing the necessary services, which is why competitive proposals are not being solicited. The contract falls under the NAICS code 541519 and is managed by the Military Sealift Command within the Department of Defense, based in Norfolk, Virginia. The notice was posted in June 2006, and official contacts for this procurement include Patrick D. Gardner and Contracting Officer Kristine Ann Boyles. While this acquisition excludes a full and open competition process, MSC remains open to considering information about other companies’ capabilities. This contract ensures MSC’s continuous receipt of comprehensive support for Websphere DataStage software from its original provider throughout the specified term.