1.a.02 GCI Telecom & Data Services Task PWS.docx

1.0 Objective. The Alaska Army National Guard Network Enterprise Center (AKARNG-NEC) requires maintaining current solution a payment solution for services providers for mobile, analog phone, 1-800, long-distance and call forwarding phone services, local internet and long-haul circuits services.

This solution allows the NEC to have real time oversite and control of all telecommunication and connectivity services supporting AKARNG personnel on Ft Richardson. The fluidity to change, terminate, acquire, and modify any services quickly and request and schedule service maintenance is imperative to control funding, service waste and end user abuse of services

1.1 Background. All Telecommunication services have been previously processed through the Cooperative Agreement Appendix 1005. Effective October 31, 2025, the State of Alaska issued a Cancelation Memo stipulating they will no longer support Appendix 1005 with bill paying services. A bill payment solution was procured and was determined, the cost for the services was excessive and was not a long-term cost-effective option.

1.2 Service Provider information:

a) Vendor: GCI COMMUNICATION CORP

b) Sam Registration Expiration Date: Oct 10, 2026

2.0 Assumptions

a) Timeline: Short suspense for implementation and will be determined on the ability to extend current contracts until a direct option with the service provider can be achieved.

b) Number of current accounts: 22

c) Invoicing Model: The service provider executes invoices in WAWF with a digital copy of the monthly statement attached to include an itemized list of services received within the billing period.

d) Oversight: AKARNG will retain full oversight, approval authority, and account visibility.

e) Period of Performance. Offerors assume that their approach will include a Period of Performance, base with option award.

f) Account evolvement: Accounts are subject to adjustments, adding or canceling services as services requirements evolve.

g) Additional service accounts may be acquired based on new requirements within the services area of the provider.

3.0 Requirements.

a) Voice communication

i. Landline service: Provides traditional local and long-distance phone calling for homes and businesses through copper wire or fiber optic connections. This often includes calling features such as caller ID, call waiting, and voicemail.

ii. Mobile (cellular) service: Offers wireless voice and data communications for mobile devices, enabling calls, messaging, and internet access from virtually any location within the network's coverage area.

iii. VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol): Uses an internet connection to make and receive calls, often at a lower cost than traditional phone service. It is a popular option for both residential and business customers.

iv. Multi-line/Extension Support: Manage multiple incoming calls simultaneously and route them to different departments or individuals.

b) Types of Systems provided

i. Key Service Unit (KSU) Systems: These are basic systems for very small businesses with limited needs (up to 40-50 users). They use physical lines and a central control unit, offering basic features like hold, intercom, and call transfer. They require professional installation and can be costly to maintain or scale.

ii. Private Branch Exchange (PBX) Systems: More advanced than KSU, PBX systems manage a higher volume of calls and provide features like hunt groups, call forwarding, and automated attendants. They can be on-premises (requiring significant upfront hardware costs and IT management) or hosted/cloud-based (managed by a service provider over the internet, offering lower upfront costs and easier scalability).

c) Wireless

i. Unlimited Voice/Unlimited Text/Unlimited Data

ii. Unlimited Data Only (w/MiFi (Hotspot) or Internet Device)

3.2 Internet services

a) Broadband internet: Provides high-speed internet access using various technologies such as DSL (over phone lines), fiber-optic, and cable networks.

b) Mobile internet (wireless data): Delivers internet access to smartphones, tablets, and other wireless devices using the company's mobile network.

c) Satellite internet: Offers internet access via satellite, which is a viable option for users in rural or remote areas where traditional wired connections are not available.

d) Fiber internet: Provides extremely fast and reliable internet and data transmission via fiber-optic lines, which is especially popular for demanding applications like streaming and online gaming.

3.3Television and video services

a) IPTV (Internet Protocol Television): Delivers television content using internet protocols instead of traditional broadcast signals. This allows for features like on-demand viewing.

b) Cable TV: Offers a variety of television channels and packages transmitted over a coaxial cable network.

c) Streaming and video services: Many telecommunications companies offer their own streaming video platforms or bundle third-party services with their plans.

3.4 Business services

a) Business phone systems (PBX): Manage internal and external phone calls for a company, with features such as automated attendants, call forwarding, and voicemail for all employees.

b) Cloud solutions: Provide cloud-based services such as data storage, data centers, and cloud-based collaboration tools.

c) Networking: Includes services for data networks, private dedicated circuits, and network security to ensure reliable and secure communication for businesses.

d) Related products and support Beyond the core communication offerings, telecommunication companies also provide:

e) Equipment: The hardware required for their services, such as modems, routers, satellite dishes, and phones.

f) Customer support: Dedicated customer support services to assist with technical issues, billing, and service changes.

g) Billing and account management: Online platforms and dedicated customer service for managing accounts, viewing usage, and paying bills.

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