S02_BNJ_ACS_Reno Dialysis_IC_Redacted.pdf

VHAPG Part 813.106 Simplified Acquisition Procedures Brand Name Justification for SAP under the SAT

Revision: 01 Effective Date: 11/15/2024 Page 1 of 3 Acquisition ID# 36C263-26-AP-0384

DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS

Justification for Brand Name Awards IAW FAR 13.106-1 For

Over Micro-Purchase Threshold but Not Exceeding the SAT ($250K)

Acquisition Plan Action ID: 36C263-26-AP-0384

1. Contracting Activity:

Veterans Health Administration (VHA), NCO 23 Contracting Office

Department of Veterans Affairs, VISN 23, VAMC Iowa City

Project #: 636A8-24-001 Const – Renovate Dialysis

2237 #: 636-26-2-8896-0001

2. Brief Description of Supplies/ Services required and the intended use/Estimated Amount:

The use of a particular brand name for the items listed below accommodate standardization of these items throughout the facility.

• Lenel Access Control System (ACS)

Lenel OnGuard is a PC-based physical access control system (PACS) that integrates access control with alarm monitoring, video surveillance, and other security functions into a single, scalable platform. It is designed for various organizations and provides features like situational awareness, visitor management, and integration with other systems like HR and ERP platforms. The system uses a client/server database architecture and can be accessed from standard PCs, offering centralized management and customizable control.

The key features and functionalities are:

• Integrated security: Combines access control, alarm monitoring, and video surveillance on a single platform for unified security management.

• Scalability: Suitable for organizations of all sizes, from small-scale systems to large, multi-location enterprises with thousands of readers.

• Data integration: Can exchange data with other business systems like HR and ERP platforms, and coordinate with alarm and emergency response systems.

• Situational awareness: Provides a unified view by aggregating data from multiple security sources to enable intelligent decision-making and proactive responses.

• PC-based management: Authorized managers can use a standard PC to log in and manage access for specific areas, assign or remove employee access rights, and monitor personnel.

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• Advanced technologies: Supports advanced technologies like biometrics and smart cards.

• Open architecture: Built on an open architecture, making it customizable and allowing for seamless integration with other security solutions.

• Accessibility: Offers mobile access through a mobile app and can be accessed via a web browser.

This justification only covers the portion of the acquisition that is brand name within the construction documents of this same acquisition. This project has a need for the Lenel Access Control System (ACS) brand line. The card reader hardware need covers all keypad card readers within this project not counting doors where the hardware is to be reused.

The approximate value of the Lenel Access Control System (ACS) is per unit.

3. Unique characteristics that limit availability to only one source, with the reason no other supplies or services can be used:

This is a brand name justification in support of FAR 11.204, Items Peculiar to One Manufacturer.

A government contract's brand-name justification for Lenel access control typically hinges on the need for compatibility with an existing, proprietary system, preventing costly replacements and security vulnerabilities. Key justifications include the requirement for seamless integration with existing infrastructure like alarm systems and card readers, the need to maintain a unified security system across multiple facilities, and the existing personnel training on the specific Lenel software. The system has the ability to integrate with existing security hardware (like card readers and cameras) and other alarm systems (fire, panic, medical gas). Having a single, unified security system is crucial to avoid the significant costs and security risks associated with managing multiple, disparate systems.

Many justifications state that Lenel systems are proprietary, meaning components from other manufacturers cannot integrate seamlessly. Staff are already trained on the Lenel system, and a change would require new training, which is costly and time-consuming.

Using the existing infrastructure with the new equipment saves money, as it avoids the need to purchase a new server or replace all wiring. The VA requires the system to integrate with existing remote monitoring centers to maintain cohesiveness in the system. By purchasing the add-on to the system as a brand-name requirement, it prevents the duplication of past efforts and costs associated with installing and configuring a new system. Lenel has the unique qualifications and is certified in operating and maintaining the specific Lenel software and hardware, ensuring the system remains viable.

The scope includes everything necessary to complete the Renovate Dialysis project that meets the requirements of the Department of Veterans Affairs. The specific work associated with Lenel is to ensure all entrances and instances of ACS use Lenel. The facility has an existing contract with Lenel so hardware need only be tied into the existing system.

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4. Description of market research conducted and results or statement why it was not conducted:

Lenel was selected by a previous contract bidding process as physical access control system standard for Iowa City VAMC. Presently installed access control system in facility is Lenel. This is a proprietary system, such that non-Lenel components cannot be added to system, and source changes would be cost-prohibitive. To maintain security of entire facility, additions to physical access control system must be Lenel. Standardization of medical center’s physical access control system is an essential part of overall facility security setup.

5. Contracting Officer's Certification: Purchase is approved in accordance with FAR13.106-

1(b). I certify that the foregoing justification is accurate and complete to the best of my knowledge and belief.

CALVIN L. COURTNEY Date Contracting Officer Network Contracting Office 23