PR 20145621 - CBP Sole Source Determination_VSC PDI (002).pdf

U.S. Customs and Border Protection Sole Source Determination

For actions above the micro-purchase threshold but not exceeding the SAT

Version 1.0 September 2016

Date: August 8, 2024, PR Number: 20145621

1. Nature and/or description of the item/service being procured:

The purpose of this procurement is to purchase a Foster and Freeman, Video Spectral Comparator “VSC PDI+” for the Fraudulent Document Analysis Unit (FDAU), Sterling, VA.

This machine will aid Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Officers assigned to the FDAU with the examination of travel documents. The high resolution, high magnification imagine system in this particular VSC model enables officers to check alterations to a document’s construction such as irregularities in the lamination of the photograph or binding. The workstation contains many features to assist in detecting document forgeries and characterizing the differences between them and genuine documents. The VSC will help the FDAU launch real time intelligence to support CBP front line personnel.

2. Sole Source Determination Rationale in accordance with FAR 13.106-1(b)(1)(i) and (ii).

(Check one and explain below):

________ Only one source reasonably available.

_________ Urgent and compelling circumstances exists.

_________ Exclusive licensing agreement exists.

____X___ Brand name. If the brand name requirement applies to a portion of the procurement, please identify that portion.

_________ Industrial Mobilization ____X_____ Other. Explain:

CBP’s Fraudulent Document Analysis Unit consulted various experts on document examination equipment and Foster and Freeman has been the recommended equipment to utilize. This equipment is the standard for use throughout CBP. Furthermore, it is beneficial to procure a VSC from the same manufacturer to ensure consistency in the quality of document examinations.

Additionally, Foster and Freeman remain the gold standard in document examination equipment used by law enforcement and border agencies worldwide.

Foster and Freeman is the only company that currently manufactures and distributes the required document examination equipment with the capabilities inherent to the VSC PDI+.

3. The anticipated price will be determined fair and reasonable based on one or more of the price analysis techniques described below in accordance with FAR Part 13.106-3(a)(2). (Check one and provide short explanation or description of action taken):

________ Market Research.

_____ ___ Comparison of the proposed price with prices found reasonable on previous

U.S. Customs and Border Protection Sole Source Determination

For actions above the micro-purchase threshold but not exceeding the SAT

Version 1.0 September 2016 purchases.

_____ ___ Current price List.

________ Comparison with similar items in a related industry.

________ Comparison to IGCE.

_________ Contracting Officer’s personal knowledge.

_____X____ Other. Explain:

Foster and Freeman provided a quote based on our requirements.

4. Technical/Requirements Personnel Certification:

I certify that this requirement meets the Government’s minimum need and that the supporting data, which forms a basis for the Sole Source Determination, is accurate and complete.

Technical Representative/COR Date

5. Contracting Officer Certification/Approval:

I hereby determine that the circumstances described herein exist and that the information is accurate and complete to the best of my knowledge:

Contracting Officer Date