9250-24-R-RFIN-00052

This is a sole source request from Mississippi State University (MSU) to purchase the SchedMD's Slurm workload scheduler software. MSU exclusively utilizes the Slurm workload manager for its job submission software, which is used in currently funded research. MSU determined that this software is the most effective solution to complete their research goals in a timely manner. SchedMD is the only reseller for Slurm providing level 3 support, which is required by MSU. The annual cost for the license of the 512-node Hercules cluster system is $19,897. MSU has conducted a diligent web search and confirmed that SchedMD is the only provider of level 3 support for the Slurm software in the US academic market. MSU has also obtained the best possible pricing, including an educational discount from SchedMD.

Any entity that objects to this sole source procurement must submit a written notice with a detailed explanation of why the commodity is not a sole source, and appropriate documentation. If, after review, MSU determines that the commodity can be provided by another source, they will withdraw the sole source request and submit the procurement to a competitive bid process. If MSU confirms that there is only one source, they will appeal to the Public Procurement Review Board to prove the commodity is only provided by one source. The deadline for this sole source request is June 7, 2024.