20190819_Sole_Source_JA-under-SAT_SPARKS_(002)_Redacted.pdf

Control No:

Version – August 2019

Memorandum for Record – Limiting Competition at or below the Simplified Acquisition Threshold

1. Contracting Activity: 409th CSB, Unit 28231. APO AE 09136-8231.

2. Description of Action: The 5th Quartermaster Theater Aerial Delivery Company (5th QM TADC) request Strategic Parachute Accountability and Record Keeping System (SPARKS) a software system used for the packing, tracking and accountability of its parachute population and equipment use during airborne operations.

a. Nature: New Requirement

b. Contract Vehicle: Purchase Order Number 0011333793

c. Pricing/Contract Type: Fixed Price

d. Funds: Operations & Maintenance, Army (OMA) FY: 2019

e. Name of Proposed Contractor(s) and Address:

f. Complete Parachute Solutions, Inc.

1326 E. International Speedway Blvd.

Suite 7 DeLand, FL 32724 United States of America

g. Brand Name Buy: No

3. Description of MINIMUM Requirements:

a. Dashboard to forecast and plan upcoming mission support requirements. This is pivotal to the success of these support missions and allows the units more time on planning and preparing for missions as opposed to manually tracking these requirements.

(1) Only SPARKS meets this requirement.

b. A method to maintain accountability and separation of multiple parachute systems from multiple units. This could lead to catastrophic failure if one parachute is mixed with a different type. This feature helps alleviate the human error of managing and maintaining parachutes.

(1) Only SPARKS meets this requirement.

c. A system capable of identifying the location of specific equipment based on the equipment serial number, date of manufacture, placed in-service date, pack date, manufacturer code, or type of parachute. Being able to track all this data within one system is extremely important to determine the lifecycle of each piece of equipment and location in order to notify units of upcoming maintenance requirements.

(1) SPARKS meets this requirement.

d. A system with a parachute maintenance dashboard capable of tracking maintenance actions on all parachutes in the systems inventory according to the United States Army repair procedures and repair house for each parachute type.

(1) Only SPARKS meets this requirement.

e. A system with dashboard for packing United States Army static line parachutes.

(1) Only SPARKS meets this requirement.

f. A system with dashboard for packing United States Army reserve parachutes.

(1) SPARKS meets this requirement.

(2)

g. RAM-Air parachute pack functions

(1) SPARKS meets this requirement.

h. A system with a dashboard capable of managing and tracking individual United States Army RAM-Air parachute components.

(1) SPARKS meets this requirement.

i. A system capable of limiting access to DoD CAC users. This is an important features of the SPARKS tracking system that no other system on the market can offer or has the ability to modify in the required timeframe needed.

Being able to maintain accountability in access control is essential to this high risk environment. Increasing the system access to CAC users only minimizes the chances for unauthorized personnel accessing the system.

(1) Only SPARKS meets this requirement.

j. A system capable of validating packing and inspections with DoD CAC.

(1) Only SPARKS meets this requirement.

k. A system capable of managing the life-cycle of all equipment in its inventory according to United States Army parachute system technical manuals.

(1) SPARKS meets this requirement.

(2)

l. Personnel management function.

(1) SPARKS meets this requirement.

(2)

m. Personnel parachute pack record keeping.

(1) SPARKS meets this requirement.

(2)

n. Personnel parachute maintenance record keeping

(1) SPARKS meets this requirement.

(2)

o. Automatic data back-up

(1) SPARKS meets this requirement.

(2)

p. Equipment readiness statistics.

(1) SPARKS meets this requirement.

(2)

q. Generate printable DA Form 2062 when issuing equipment.

(1) Only SPARKS meets this requirement.

r. Replace DA Form 3912 Army Parachute Log Record with Barcodes and Pack Labels.

(1) Only SPARKS meets this requirement.

s. Storage and “ready for issue” management features.

(1) Only SPARKS meets this requirement.

t. Mobile kiosk features to work off-site and integrate the data with server at a later date. This is one of the most important minimum requirements of a parachute tracking system that will allow for the continuity and real-time updates of all off-site usage. Drastically minimizes duplication of data errors leading to a more robust and SAFE parachute tracking system.

(1) SPARKS meets this requirement.

(2)

4. Description of Services or Supplies: (this can only be sold as a complete set and not piecemealed. Doing so will void the warranty)

a. Strategic Parachute Accountability & Record Keeping System (Latest Version) Includes:

(1) SPARKS Site License for 1 Server & 10 Facility KIOSKs & 1 Mobile KIOSKs w/ 1 Year Standard Phone Support

(2) 6 Round Pack KIOSKs

(3) 1 Round FI KIOSK

(4) 1 Static Line RFI KIOSK

(5) 1 MFF Pack/RFI KIOSK

(6) 1 Maintenance KIOSK

(7) 1 Mobile KIOSKs (Android Devices)

(8) Quick Start Posters – 1 Round Pack, 1 Round FI, and 1 MFF Pack

(9) SPARKS User Manual (PDF)

b. Installation & Training Package (OCONUS) Includes:

(1) Prepare Equipment, Configure Software, Conduct Testing

(2) Prepare Facility, Install System, Setup Backups (Computer & Database)

(3) Conduct Final Testing & Remediate Issues

(4) Installation Supplies

(5) All Required Travel Expenses

c. Training Includes: Perform Initial User and Management Level Training

d. Hardware, Software, & Structural Modification Package: Additional Items Required in addition to current equipment on hand

(1) Tower Server – Dell PowerEdge T130

(a) Intel® Xeon® E3-1230v5 3.5 GHz, Turbo, Quad Core/8T

(b) 32GB Memory (2x16GB)

(c) Windows Server® 2012 R2,Standard, 2 Socket, 2 VMs

(d) 2 x 1TB 7.2K RPM SATA 6Gbps 3.5in Hard Drive

(e) DVD+/-RW, SATA Drive

(f) Keyboard & Optical Mouse

(g) 3 Years ProSupport Plus NBD On-Site Service

(h) Microsoft Office Home & Business 2016

(i) 23” Touchscreen Monitor

(2) Acronis Backup for Windows Server

(3) Aluminum Zebra Printer Stand – Manufacturing, & Installation

(4) TABLE KIOSKs – Microsoft Surface Pro 4 (or later) Tablet PC

(a) Windows 10 Pro, 6th Gen Intel Core i5, 128GB SSD, 4GB RAM

(b) Surface Pro 4 Type Cover

(c) 3 Year Extended Warranty (Microsoft)

(5) UAG Surface Pro 4 Rugged Case

(6) Microsoft Surface Pro 4 Holder w/ Key Lock for use with UAG Case

(7) Motorola/Symbol DS3578-HD Cordless Barcode Scanner

(8) Symbol/Motorola TC70 Mobile Computer (Android) & Imager

(9) Palm Style QR-Code/1D/2D Wireless Bluetooth Barcode Reader

(10) Quad-Bay Battery Cartridge Charge and US Power Supply

(11) Code Battery Cartridge, Dark Gray

(12) KIOSK Desk/Table Mount - Ergotron LX LCD Arm

(13) Zebra ZD410 Printer w/ Ethernet

(14) Netgear ReadyNAS 102 6TB (2x 3TB) (RN10223D-100NAS)

(15) Linksys 24-Port Metallic Gigabit Switch (SE3024)

(16) LinkSys AC5400 Tri-Band Wireless Router w/ 8 Gigabit Ports

(17) LinkSys LAPAC2600 Business Pro – Wireless Access Point (MU-MIMO)

(18) Netgear N600 Dual Band Wi-Fi to Ethernet Adapter (Or Similar)

(19) USB 3.0 VGA Adapter

(20) Aukey USB 3.0 Hub - 3 USB Ports, 1 Ethernet Port

(21) Zebra 1” x 2” Z-Perform 2000D Labels (10010028) (6 Rolls)

(22) HP LaserJet M501dn (or similar)

(23) CAT6 Cable – 1000ft

(24) Project Management – Ordering, configuration and coordination of any subcontractors and related materials.

5. Total Value:

6. Authority: In accordance with FAR 13.106-1(b)(1): For purchases not exceeding the simplified acquisition threshold (SAT), only one source reasonably available, urgency, exclusive licensing agreements, brand name, or industrial mobilization.

7. Reasons for Authority Cited:

8. Complete Parachute Solutions, Inc. is the sole manufacturer and supplier of SPARKS and all related components. They have proprietary ownership of the SPARKS software program. The Special Equipment Branch riggers have the need to track all aspects of personnel parachutes, cargo chutes and associated equipment. SPARKS allows the riggers to maintain accurate, up to date record keeping from the point of receipt to end of life. Accurate record keeping is vital for all personnel parachutes since they are a lifesaving piece of equipment. SPARKS allows the rigger to track pack logs, inventory movement, repairs and jump history. This program allows the Special Equipment Branch to see the actual service life of each parachute or piece of aerial delivery equipment in one centralized location. Complete Parachute Systems offers the only automated software program dedicated to parachute packing and record keeping.

9. Publicizing Contract Actions: For FAR Part 13 actions, the public display and synopsis requirements of FAR 5.101 and FAR 5.203 apply and will be followed.

10. Market Research: Market Research indicates Complete Parachute Solutions, Inc is the sole manufacturer and supplier of SPARKS and all related components. They have proprietary ownership of the SPARKS software program. Therefore, this purchase will be a sole source in accordance with FAR 13.106-1(b)(1): For purchases not exceeding the simplified acquisition threshold (SAT), only one source reasonably available, urgency, exclusive licensing agreements, brand name, or industrial mobilization. The requirement meets the definition of a commercial item definition stated in FAR 2.101 as the civilian sector is using it. 5th QM will continue to monitor DOD and the Fort Lee Quartermaster Center and School for additional sources.

11. Other Facts: There has been a previous purchase order contract number W45PVN- 17-P-0031. The action was not competed in accordance with FAR 13.106-1(b)(1): For purchases not exceeding the simplified acquisition threshold (SAT), only one source reasonably available, urgency, exclusive licensing agreements, brand name, or industrial mobilization.

SPARKS was developed in an effort to fill a critical capabilities gap that currently exists within the military parachute rigger field and is working closely with technical experts to develop, deploy the most relevant functionality in a timeframe that improves the field in the most expedient manner possible. SPARKS improves the rigging field in many different ways including improved efficiency, redundant data backups and information management, incredible reporting and management tools, service life and rigger proficiency validation, expedites investigations due to unfortunate incidents that can occur during parachute operations, simplified data logging procedures, expedient research capabilities, streamlined processes, budget forecasting, and simply makes the parachute packing process more enjoyable. SPARKS utilizes the barcodes on the DoD Common Access Card as well as a PIN number to validate packing, management, inspection personnel and ensure that all individuals interacting with the system have been approved to perform various duties on various parachute systems.

SPARKS is an enterprise capable, cloud ready, rapidly expanding solution that can support an unlimited number of locations worldwide. Furthermore, SPARKS has expanded from its original exclusive ability to manage parachute rigging operations, into a comprehensive tracking system that incorporates all additional aspects of Military Airborne Operations. This includes complete mission planning and management - from parachute issue, jumper inspections, manifesting PAX/Cargo, drop zone recovery, accountability, personnel identification/validation (jump masters, jumpers, DZSOs, etc.), drop zone management, and more.

What SPARKS does is track a parachute from cradle to grave, from in-service, pack dates, messages, maintenance and more. It puts in place checks and validations for packers to ensure they are certified to pack a particular system. It enables commanders to forecast and remove from service items for better budgetary visibility and safety enhancement. Currently there is no mechanism in place for the PM to know where a parachute is located and what unit has it. Overall, SPARKS is the only parachute tracking system on the market that can do what is needed to maintain and track these parachutes. As stated above, there is one possible contender that comes somewhat close to this requirements but is lacking in areas that are substantial to the safety and mission of our unit. A site visit to Ramstein AFB while conducting market research verified that the accountability system they use for their parachutes would not be sufficient for our need and would offer no benefit to what we currently have. It also would not be inter-operable between other Army units that utilize the SPARKS Parachute Tracking system.

In summary, the SPARKS parachute tracking system has all the minimum requirements needed to efficiently and effectively maintain and track all the Army parachute systems.

There are other brands on the market that could possibly be modified to meet all our the capabilities of SPARKS and our minimum requirements but this option would not be available to the general public or my Army unit since we are only purchasing one system.

12. Technical/Requirements Certification: I certify that the supporting data under my cognizance which are included in the justification are accurate and complete to the best of my knowledge and belief.

Typed Name:

Date:

Title:

Signature:

Right-Click "Signature Setup"

Signed by: MINNIS.DAVID.JUSTIN.1267320400

10. Contracting Officer Certification/Approval: I certify that this justification is accurate and complete to the best of my knowledge and belief, and that completing this purchase as a sole source is in the best interest of the Government. Additionally, I approve this justification to limit competition subject to the availability of funds and provided that the services or supplies herein described have otherwise been authorized for acquisition.

Typed Name:

+02'00'