B08_Solicitation_Attachment_3_-_Brand_Name_Justification_Redacted.pdf

This document is a Brand Name Only Justification for the procurement of Network Switches for the Department of the Interior's Office of Information Technology (OIT). The justification seeks to refresh the aging network infrastructure within the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA), specifically targeting remaining switches that have not been updated in the past 2 years. The procurement is for Cisco network switches, which are deemed the only viable option to ensure seamless integration, continued reliable performance, and prevent potential network failures, security risks, and operational disruptions.

The document outlines a sole-source procurement using Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) 13.106-1(b)(1)(i), with a firm-fixed pricing model and a 90-day delivery timeline. Market research was conducted using the Indian Affairs Native American Businesses in SAM.gov, which identified 499 potential ISBEE sources under NAICS 541519. The contracting office has determined that the anticipated cost will be fair and reasonable, based on competitive quotes, commercial price lists, and quotes from a qualifying ISBEE vendor. The procurement will be solicited directly to Indian Small Business Economic Enterprises (ISBEE), with the agency working to explore potential alternative models from other manufacturers in future procurements.