Intranet Quorum (IQ) Support Services and Software Maintenance

The Texas Department of Agriculture is seeking qualified vendors to provide Intranet Quorum (IQ) Support Services and Software Maintenance under solicitation 5510001059, with proposals due by August 17, 2026. The contract aims to ensure continuous operation of the IQ system through FY27, with an option for up to three one-year renewals, starting September 1, 2026. The scope includes licensing and support for two IQ Project Manager/Supervisors, two IQ Senior Network Engineers, fifteen IQ Enterprise Support personnel, and an annual software maintenance upgrade subscription. All work must comply with Texas DIR Information Security Standards and TX-RAMP Level 2 Certification, as outlined in Exhibit K, which mandates robust data security, confidentiality controls, breach notification protocols, and disaster recovery measures. Proposals must be submitted electronically via the Electronic State Bid Directory and include two volumes: one containing the narrative, certifications, and confidential data, and another redacted version for public disclosure under the Texas Public Information Act. Key staffing profiles must include detailed resumes of all personnel, with disqualifying criteria including recent federal program debarments or criminal convictions within the past seven years. Award will be made based on a best value trade-off approach, weighing the proposed service plan at 40%, past performance and qualifications at 30%, and cost reasonableness at 30%. The evaluation includes risk-based pass/fail screening, disqualifying vendors with poor performance histories, debarment status, or unresolved corrective action plans. Contractors must complete and submit multiple exhibits, including a Transition Plan, Subcontracting Plan if applicable, Data Security Requirements, and a Key Contracting Persons Disclosure Statement to identify and mitigate organizational conflicts of interest. All pricing must remain irrevocable through the base term and any renewals. Invoicing is to be submitted electronically to invoices@texasagriculture.gov, and payments are subject to legislative appropriations through the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts. The contracting officer is Phyllis Benitez, and acceptance of services rests solely with TDA, which retains authority to inspect and approve performance against stringent compliance benchmarks including insurance requirements, vendor registration status, and adherence to Texas Administrative Code Title 1, Part 10, Chapter 202.