Starfish_SSJ_8.5.2019_Redacted.pdf

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JUSTIFICATION FOR SOLE SOURCE (Simplified Acquisitions <$150K)

The service or material listed on is sole source and competition is precluded for reasons indicated below. There are no substitutes available for this material or service.

Restricted to the following source. Provide Hobson’s name. (If a sole source manufacturer distributes via dealers, ALSO provide dealer information.)

Manufacturer: Hobsons

Manufacturer POC & phone nr.

Mfr. Address: 50 E-Business Way

Suite 300 Cincinnati, Ohio 45241

Dealer / Rep: Same as above

Dealer / Rep address / phone nr. Same as above

__X__ Description of the item or service required, the estimated cost, and required delivery date.

This requirement is for the procurement of Starfish CONNECT; a tutorial program software system that allows for better communication data collection, data analysis and scheduling for all the tutoring and support programs for the Center for Academic Excellence at the United States Naval Academy (USNA). The total estimated cost is and includes production license, tech support, hosting and professional service (phone basis planning, design, training development and configuration). This includes a three-year contract discount. The second year estimated cost is and the third year estimated cost is . The required delivery date is August 2019.

__X__ Specific characteristics of the material or service that limit the availability to a sole source (unique features, function of the item, etc.). Describe in detail why only this suggested source can furnish the requirements to the exclusion of other sources.

Starfish CONNECT is an online appointment scheduling and case management module of the Starfish Enterprise Success Platform. This software support system promotes engagement and removes obstacles between students and their advisors, tutors and instructors. The Starfish CONNECT module encourages students to engage more deeply in their academic lives by connecting them to the people and resources best equipped to help them succeed.

Typically, most institution Web sites are organized by department, service area, or campus; which can make finding support information difficult. However, Starfish CONNECT is unique and intricately designed to present each student with a personalized view of every person and service that can help, including a fully searchable interface. In addition, advisors can refer students to specific services and assign a “To Do” that encourages action.

The USNA reviewed other manufacturers software support systems, and, it was determined that Starfish CONNECT is the only system capable of fulfilling the needs of the Academic Center. Hobson’s exclusive Starfish CONNECT is the only program known to include powerful case management, appointment scheduling, and communication tools to promote engagement and help students stay on track and succeed. Compared to other manufacturer’s software support systems, Starfish Connect is the only system capable of effectively providing the tutor sign in requirement; a critical function of how the tutorial program is successfully delivered. Starfish CONNECT is the only reliable software system that will entirely meet the USNA’s requirements.

Furthermore, The Starfish CONNECT software is proprietary in nature, and Hobsons does not allow third party access. Only Hobsons support personnel are familiar with the systems configurations, and are the only trained individuals that possess the intricate knowledge, hands on experience, appropriate education and technical skills specifically developed to provide the customer with superior support, training and professional development.

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___ The requested material or service represents the minimum requirements of the government.

CHECK & FILL IN ALL APPLICABLE BLANKS BELOW

__X__ The material/service must be compatible in all aspects (form, fit and function) with existing systems presently installed/performing. Describe the equipment/function you have now and how the new item/service must coordinate, connect, or interface with the existing system.

The USNA has been utilizing the Starfish CONNECT platform since August 2016. Throughout this time, the USNA has discovered that Starfish CONNECT software is exceedingly more reliable, accurate and effective in comparison to other manufacturer’s software.

If awarded to another manufacturer, the USNA would be forced to entirely change their software platform;

ultimately requiring system reconfiguration, wasting time/resources, and resulting in a duplication of efforts and egregious cost.

Starfish CONNECT is the only system compatible in all aspects and the only system that will seamlessly interface with the existing USNA infrastructure. Hobsons specifically designed this software and no other company will be able to interface with the Starfish CONNECT system to facilitate updates and technical support. Ultimately, it is Hobson’s incentive to support their own software and users. No other company’s software platform will suffice.

__X__ A patent, copyright or proprietary data limits competition. The proprietary data is

____ These are “direct replacements” parts/components for existing equipment.

____ Other information to support a sole source buy:

Contracting Officer Signature _________________________________________

Date ________________________________ SAP Sole Source

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