RFP - Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) for the Harris County Institute of Forensic Sciences

Harris County is seeking proposals for a comprehensive Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) for the Harris County Institute of Forensic Sciences (HCIFS) Forensic Genetics Laboratory. The procurement is a one-year contract with potential for four additional one-year renewals, beginning approximately October 1, 2025. The LIMS must provide end-to-end functionality for forensic DNA testing processes, including electronic accessioning, chain of custody tracking, workflow management, evidence system integration, data collection and analysis tools, reporting capabilities, and robust data storage and security features. Vendors must submit a detailed proposal with an "AS IS" and "TO BE" analysis, demonstrating system improvements and efficiency gains. The evaluation criteria will be weighted as follows: 25% for Scope of Services, 20% for System Integration and Compatibility, 25% for Implementation Strategy and Support Services, with additional points for fee schedule, organizational qualifications, and project management approach. A pre-proposal conference is scheduled for Monday, August 18, 2025, at 9:00 a.m. CST via Microsoft Teams, with proposal submissions due by September 8, 2025.

The solicitation does not explicitly indicate specific set-aside designations, but it does require vendors to complete a Subcontractor Listing Form that captures information about HUB/MWBE and Section 3 certifications. Vendors must comply with extensive cybersecurity requirements, including annual training, background checks, secure coding practices, multi-factor authentication, and providing documentation such as SOC2 Type 2 Reports and penetration testing results. The system must be compatible with existing infrastructure and comply with ISO 17025 and FBI Quality Assurance Standards. While a specific budget range is not disclosed, the county anticipates awarding to a single vendor but reserves the right to select multiple vendors. The proposal requires comprehensive pricing covering project management, implementation, training, documentation, third-party software, interfaces, and licenses, with an expectation of 24/7 technical support and the ability to train up to 50 users. Vendors must also demonstrate experience with forensic genetics laboratories and provide detailed technical expertise and references.