Information Technology Independent Research Services

The Massachusetts Information Technology Independent Research Services (ITS80) multi-award vehicle provides state and local government entities with access to comprehensive IT research and advisory services. The contract offers online subscriptions to independent and objective technology research, including market analyses, technology trend reports, and forecasts. Subscribers can access research articles, market leader comparisons across computer hardware, software, and security product domains, with some subscription tiers including additional benefits such as analyst consultations and conference tickets. The contract is specifically designed to deliver fixed-price research services and educational courses, strictly prohibiting hourly rate or project-based consulting engagements.

The vehicle is managed by the Massachusetts Operational Services Division (OSD) and was initially established on December 14, 2022, with the current contract term running from December 14, 2024, to January 18, 2026. Prime contractors include Forrester and Gartner, with ISG pending renewal, and the contract leverages the NASPOValuePoint IT Research & Advisory Services multi-state cooperative contract. Purchases are executed directly through COMMBUYS, the Commonwealth's electronic market center, with fixed pricing and no requirement for multiple quotes. The contract covers the entire Commonwealth of Massachusetts and includes a 1% Supplier Diversity Program (SDP) commitment, with a focus on enabling efficient and streamlined procurement of critical IT research services for eligible government entities.