RFI DCA OIS 24-24-006

The California Department of Consumer Affairs (DCA), specifically the Office of Information Services (OIS), has issued a Request for Information (RFI #DCA OIS 24-25-006) seeking market feedback and potential solutions for a new web-based application processing system for the California State Board of Pharmacy (CSBP). The primary objective is to modernize the current paper-based and legacy system by implementing a cloud-based SaaS/PaaS solution that can support approximately 150,000 external users and 175 internal users. The proposed system must streamline business processes, enable digital interactions for applicants and licensees, and support critical functions including online application submission, fee payment, continuing education management, license renewals, and change notices. Vendors must demonstrate capabilities for integrating with the existing Consumer Affairs System (CAS) mainframe application and provide non-binding budgetary pricing information. Key evaluation criteria will include technical capabilities, system architecture, security compliance, and implementation approach. The RFI timeline includes question submissions due by February 7, 2025, state responses by February 14, 2025, solution demonstrations in March 2025, and final responses due by February 28, 2025, at 9:00 a.m. PST.

The RFI does not explicitly specify set-aside designations or vendor restrictions, but requires comprehensive technical and organizational capabilities from potential solution providers. The existing technology infrastructure includes a legacy Applicant Tracking System (CAS), various tracking systems, and a NATURAL/ADABAS mainframe application that will require integration. Respondents must complete a detailed vendor questionnaire covering technical capabilities, implementation approaches, FedRAMP compliance, infrastructure security, ADA accessibility, and disaster recovery procedures. While a specific budget range is not disclosed, vendors are required to submit Rough Order of Magnitude (ROM) estimates using the provided template, which includes cost categories for labor, licensing, implementation, training, third-party software, hosting services, and maintenance. The anticipated solicitation is expected to occur within 6-9 months, with system implementation planned for Fiscal Year 2026. The state will use the RFI responses to inform the formal procurement strategy and determine budgetary allocations for the new licensing system.