INTENT TO SOLE SOURCE - INVERIS TRAINING

The South Carolina Department of Corrections (SCDC) has issued a sole source procurement opportunity for InVeris Training Solutions to support their FireArms Training Simulation (FATS) weapons training system. The solicitation, numbered 5400021758, seeks to procure hardware, software, warranties, extended warranties, maintenance, repair, and potential upgrades or enhancements for the existing FATS system currently deployed at the SCDC Training Academy. The original FATS system was initially awarded to Meggitt Training Systems in March 2016, which subsequently underwent a name change to InVeris Training Solutions in September 2020. Vendors interested in responding must be fully authorized to perform and supply all products and services compatible with the current FATS equipment. The procurement timeline requires potential alternative vendors to submit responses via email to purchasing@doc.sc.gov, with "SOLE SOURCE" in the subject line, by July 6, 2021, at 10:00 a.m., or alternatively by August 12, 2021, for formal sealed offers. The notice will be posted in the South Carolina Business Opportunities (SCBO) for at least ten business days, and any protests to the intended award must be submitted in writing within five business days of posting.

The procurement appears to be specifically targeted to InVeris Training Solutions as the sole source provider, with no explicit set-aside designations or restrictions for disadvantaged enterprises mentioned. The contract builds upon existing technology infrastructure, specifically the Meggitt FATS system previously implemented at the SCDC Training Academy. While specific award values or budget ranges are not detailed in the document, the procurement encompasses comprehensive system support including hardware, software, warranties, maintenance, and potential future upgrades. The solicitation provides a mechanism for other vendors to challenge the sole source designation by submitting capabilities demonstrating they can meet the department's requirements. Potential respondents must carefully review the existing system specifications and be prepared to provide comprehensive training solutions that are fully compatible with the current FATS equipment. The procurement process allows for alternative vendors to present their qualifications, though the intent strongly suggests a preference for continuing with the incumbent technology provider.