VA awards $15.3M contract for speech-generating devices to Tobii Dynavox LLC

Contract Overview

Contract Amount: $15,311 ($15.3K)

Contractor: Tobii Dynavox LLC

Awarding Agency: Department of Veterans Affairs

Start Date: 2026-04-01

End Date: 2026-09-30

Contract Duration: 182 days

Daily Burn Rate: $84/day

Competition Type: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION

Number of Offers Received: 1

Pricing Type: FIRM FIXED PRICE

Sector: IT

Official Description: EXPRESS REPORT: SPEECH GENERATING DEVICE

Place of Performance

Location: PITTSBURGH, ALLEGHENY County, PENNSYLVANIA, 15203

State: Pennsylvania Government Spending

Plain-Language Summary

Department of Veterans Affairs obligated $15,310.84 to TOBII DYNAVOX LLC for work described as: EXPRESS REPORT: SPEECH GENERATING DEVICE Key points: 1. Contract awarded to a single, established provider of assistive technology. 2. Focus on electronic computer manufacturing sector, specifically for specialized communication devices. 3. Potential risk related to vendor lock-in and limited market alternatives for this specific technology. 4. The contract aims to improve communication access for veterans with speech impairments.

Value Assessment

Rating: good

The contract value of $15.3M for 182 days suggests a significant investment in specialized hardware. Benchmarking against similar, highly specialized assistive technology contracts is difficult without more granular data, but the price appears reasonable for advanced communication solutions.

Cost Per Unit: N/A

Competition Analysis

Competition Level: full-and-open

The contract was awarded under full and open competition, indicating that multiple vendors had the opportunity to bid. This method generally promotes competitive pricing and ensures the government receives the best value.

Taxpayer Impact: The use of competitive bidding aims to ensure taxpayer funds are used efficiently for essential veteran services.

Public Impact

Enhances communication capabilities for veterans with disabilities. Supports the use of advanced technology to improve quality of life. Ensures access to critical assistive devices for a vulnerable population.

Waste & Efficiency Indicators

Waste Risk Score: 84 / 10

Positive Signals

Full and open competition utilized.
Contract awarded to a known entity in the assistive technology space.
Clear end date for service delivery.

Sector Analysis

This contract falls within the Electronic Computer Manufacturing sector, specifically focusing on specialized assistive technology. Spending in this niche area is driven by the need for advanced communication solutions for individuals with specific medical needs.

Small Business Impact

The data does not indicate whether small businesses were involved in this specific award. Further analysis would be needed to determine the extent of small business participation.

Oversight & Accountability

The Department of Veterans Affairs is responsible for overseeing this contract to ensure timely delivery and quality of the speech-generating devices, safeguarding taxpayer investment.

Related Government Programs

Electronic Computer Manufacturing
Department of Veterans Affairs Contracting
Department of Veterans Affairs Programs

Risk Flags

Potential for vendor lock-in if specialized support is required.
Dependence on a single manufacturer for critical assistive technology.
Need for ongoing assessment of technological advancements in the field.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is this federal contract paying for?

Department of Veterans Affairs awarded $15,310.84 to TOBII DYNAVOX LLC. EXPRESS REPORT: SPEECH GENERATING DEVICE

Who is the contractor on this award?

The obligated recipient is TOBII DYNAVOX LLC.

Which agency awarded this contract?

Awarding agency: Department of Veterans Affairs (Department of Veterans Affairs).

What is the total obligated amount?

The obligated amount is $15,310.84.

What is the period of performance?

Start: 2026-04-01. End: 2026-09-30.

What is the expected impact of these devices on veteran communication and independence?

These speech-generating devices are expected to significantly improve the communication abilities of veterans with speech impairments, fostering greater independence and social engagement. By providing a reliable means of expression, the devices can enhance their overall quality of life and reduce reliance on caregivers for basic communication needs.

Are there potential long-term maintenance or upgrade costs associated with these devices?

While the initial contract covers the acquisition of the devices, potential long-term costs for maintenance, software updates, and future upgrades should be considered. The government should establish clear protocols for support and replacement to ensure the devices remain functional and effective throughout their lifecycle.

How does the pricing compare to commercially available, non-government-procured devices?

Without specific model comparisons, it's challenging to directly benchmark. However, government contracts often leverage bulk purchasing power, which can lead to more favorable pricing than individual retail purchases. The 'full and open competition' clause suggests a competitive price was sought.

Industry Classification

NAICS: Manufacturing › Computer and Peripheral Equipment Manufacturing › Electronic Computer Manufacturing

Product/Service Code: MEDICAL/DENTAL/VETERINARY EQPT/SUPP

Competition & Pricing

Extent Competed: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION

Solicitation Procedures: SUBJECT TO MULTIPLE AWARD FAIR OPPORTUNITY

Offers Received: 1

Pricing Type: FIRM FIXED PRICE (J)

Evaluated Preference: NONE

Contractor Details

Parent Company: Tobii Assistive Technology, Inc.

Address: 1400 CHERRINGTON PKWY BLDG 100, CORAOPOLIS, PA, 15108

Business Categories: Category Business, Corporate Entity Not Tax Exempt, Self-Certified Small Disadvantaged Business, Small Business, Special Designations, U.S.-Owned Business

Financial Breakdown

Contract Ceiling: $15,311

Exercised Options: $15,311

Current Obligation: $15,311

Contract Characteristics

Commercial Item: COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS/SERVICES

Parent Contract

Parent Award PIID: GS35F421DA

IDV Type: FSS

Timeline