Brand Name Justification for Simplified Acquisitions.pdf

BRAND NAME JUSTIFICATION

(FAR 13 Under the SAT)

1. DESCRIPTION OF THE SUPPLIES/SERVICES REQUIRED

Idaho Panhandle National Forests – Coeur d’Alene Interagency Dispatch Center Estimate , which includes new furniture and installation, and modification of existing dispatch furniture.

Dispatch has unique ergonomic needs due to the excessive amount of time spent in the office during the fire season. Our office is staffed 24 hours per day, and employees can be at their desk for up to 16 hours per day. Our furniture must have:

Electronic variable height controls Individual temperature controls and comfort controls Large desk space to accommodate

Four to eight large computer monitors, support surface must adjust to position users for proper view angles and correct focal length to minimize eye strain.

Two laptops, multiple keyboards, radio console, microphone, speakers, and phones

Multiple desktop data ports and built-in power options.

Cubicle walls for the console furniture must have sound dampening panels and be tall enough to mitigate excessive sound.

File storage pedestals and equipment storage for radio components.

2. JUSTIFICATION FOR SOLICITING FOR A BRAND NAME

We are in the process of consolidating dispatch centers, this additional furniture will be integrated alongside existing console furniture, Xybix . It is essential that the new furniture matches what is currently in place.

First, continuity in brand and design ensures uniformity across all workstations, which is critical for operational efficiency particularly in high-demand dispatch environments. Matching the current consoles will maintain a consistent look and feel throughout the center, fostering a more cohesive and professional workspace. Second, maintenance and repair coordination are streamlined when all furniture is from the same manufacturer. Xybix desks require specialized tools and parts, and introducing a different brand could complicate service logistics, increase downtime, an necessitate additional training or resources and long-term support. Third, Xybix warranty states that any modification, physical alterations, using non-approved accessories or parts or unauthorized services, to the consoles will void the lifetime warranty

There are several considerations for the installation expense. Dispatch console furniture has many electrical and mechanical components, which must be hardwired into our current electrical panels, requiring an electrician. Our existing furniture needs to be modified, and the footprint reduced to create additional space for the new furniture. The existing furniture also needs to be moved to close a non-conforming walkway and adjust the layout to create a more efficient use of our space.

have specialized experience and required tools to perform this service without damaging the furniture

For these reasons, we strongly recommend that furniture be Xybix to ensure seamless integration, efficient maintenance, and the long-term success of our consolidated dispatch operations.

3. EFFORTS TO OBTAIN COMPETITION

In considering this brand name request, I considered many factors, some of which include matching the current dispatch console furniture, ergonomic requirements, dispatch functionality, and cost. different manufacturer would require modifications to existing consoles. Modifying existing consoles would result in increased cost and operational time.

4. STEPS TO PRECLUDE FUTURE RAND NAME AWARDS

In the coming year, as we build our operation, there will be an opportunity to obtain a less specific type of console. The new furniture that is planned for expansion comes with less specialized requirements,

5. CONTRACTING OFFICER’S DETERMINATION

Idaho Panhandle National Forests – Coeur d’Alene Interagency Dispatch Center

NAME Melanie Roose Title Center Manager

Concur/Does Not Concur: NAME Contracting Officer

Concur/D/D

SARAH

ACKERMAN

Digitally signed by

SARAH ACKERMAN

Date: 2025.09.11 13:05:18 -07'00'

MELANIE

ROOSE

Digitally signed by

MELANIE ROOSE

Date: 2025.09.11 12:57:46 -07'00'