Rocscience RS3 software

Added: Jun 26, 2018 12:42 pm

Sole Source Justification

One Source/Brand Name

1.             Intended use of the supply of service.

Rocscience RS3 software provides 3-D modeling capability for design and construction analyses. The software will enable the District to perform more comprehensive analyses for project design and construction support, and more effectively review work prepared by AE consultants that also use the software.

2.            The critical or unique characteristics of the supply or service which are mandatory for the intended use.

Rocscience RS3 is a general finite element analysis program for excavations, foundation design, embankments, groundwater, and more. The Los Angeles District Geotechnical Branch does not currently have an analysis tool that couples multiple analysis for three-dimensional modelling. Use of this new software will enable Geotechnical Branch staff to design and evaluate soil response/behavior more realistically. These capabilities will benefit in refining project designs and reducing risk potential.

3.             Reason why only the selected "one source" or "brand name" can furnish the requirements to the exclusion of all other sources.

Rocscience is a widely used and recognized software developer both in practice and academia, and is also used by USACE districts. RS3 is the most recent iteration of Rocscience finite element analysis software. Many AE firms use Rocscience software to prepare design submittals sent to the District. It would be advantageous to evaluate these submittals using the same or similar software in which it was originally prepared. The software developer, Rocscience, Inc., is located in Toronto, Ontario and offers a strong customer support service.

4.             Is this a follow-on or upgrade to a previous purchase? If yes, provide the purchase order number. No.

5.             Describe efforts made to determine if other sources capable of satisfying the government's requirements exist:

Several other software programs exist (such as Geostudio Suite and FLAC) that perform similar functions as RS3. The District currently has Geostudio Suite, which has finite element programs that are part of the suite. However, the program is not widely used and does not the same full capabilities that are offered by RS3, including 3D modeling and advanced soil models. FLAC is also a widely used finite element program but does not offer coupled analysis with groundwater modelling.

6.             Basis for determination of a fair and reasonable price:

A.                                 Previous purchase order: N/A

B.                                 Current price list/catalog/advertisement: https://www.rocscience.com/store/rs3/

C.                                 Similar supply/service previously purchased:  none

D.                                 Value analysis:  none