What's Happening?
The Social Security Administration (SSA) is initiating the process to recompete its main IT services contract, which focuses on hardware and software to support customer service functions. The current contract, awarded in 2017 to CGI Federal, Leidos,
and Northrop Grumman, is set to expire. Peraton later acquired Northrop Grumman's position in the contract. The SSA has released a sources sought notice via FedConnect to begin market research for the ITSSC Recompete. The contract has seen approximately $2.9 billion in task order volume, with Leidos receiving the largest share. The SSA aims to increase automation in managing technology workloads, anticipating 70 million more Social Security sign-ups over the next decade. The work is divided into four areas: database and data administration, software improvement lifecycle activities, software engineering and management support, and systems administration and security support.
Why It's Important?
The recompete of the SSA's IT services contract is significant as it aims to enhance the agency's ability to manage increasing workloads and improve customer service. With a projected increase in Social Security sign-ups, the SSA's focus on automation and adaptability to legislative changes is crucial. The contract's outcome will impact major IT service providers and could influence the distribution of federal IT spending. Companies involved in the recompete stand to gain substantial business opportunities, while the SSA seeks to ensure efficient and secure service delivery to millions of Americans.
What's Next?
Responses to the SSA's request for information are due by February 12. The SSA will evaluate submissions to determine the best approach for the recompete. Companies interested in the contract will need to demonstrate their capabilities in cloud environments, licensing models, and previous implementations. The SSA's decision will likely influence future federal IT contracts and set a precedent for how government agencies manage large-scale IT services.
