Master Contract for IT Services - Adding IT Service Providers

The State of Montana has issued a Request for Proposal (SPB-RFP-2020-0226T) for a Master Contract for IT Services, seeking to add new IT service providers to an existing contract roster. This procurement is designed to expand the state's pool of qualified technology vendors, with the current master contract running through June 30, 2026. The RFP encompasses a comprehensive range of computing services, including advisory and research services, cloud services, data center services, disaster recovery, document management, GIS services, internet services, IT staff augmentation, network services, project management, and quality assurance services. The solicitation follows a two-tier evaluation model, with Tier One focusing on qualifying vendors based on company IT project experience and references. Vendors must submit their proposals by January 17, 2020, with the evaluation process primarily assessing project experience, company capabilities, and professional references. Companies currently on the master contract are not required to respond to this solicitation, and the final vendor selection will involve a Contractor Engagement Proposal (CEP) system through the Montana Acquisition and Contracting System (eMACS).

The RFP does not explicitly mention specific set-aside designations or restrictions for disadvantaged enterprises. The current master contract already includes 139 qualified IT services companies, indicating a robust and competitive vendor landscape. While specific budget ranges are not detailed in the provided document, the multi-year contract through June 30, 2026, suggests significant potential contract value for selected vendors. The two-tier evaluation process implies that rates, costs, and staff qualifications will be more thoroughly examined in the subsequent Tier Two selection process. Vendors will need to demonstrate substantial IT project experience and provide comprehensive professional references to be considered for inclusion in the master contract. The state's approach allows for flexibility in procuring IT services across multiple agencies and technology domains, with the eMACS system facilitating the contractor engagement and selection process.