DHS awards $193M contract for computer systems design services to MANTECH ADVANCED SYSTEMS INTERNATIONAL, INC

Contract Overview

Contract Amount: $193,255,462 ($193.3M)

Contractor: Mantech Advanced Systems International, Inc.

Awarding Agency: Department of Homeland Security

Start Date: 2016-07-29

End Date: 2021-09-30

Contract Duration: 1,889 days

Daily Burn Rate: $102.3K/day

Competition Type: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION

Number of Offers Received: 10

Pricing Type: TIME AND MATERIALS

Sector: IT

Official Description: IGF::OT::IGF SPEDI

Place of Performance

Location: BETHESDA, MONTGOMERY County, MARYLAND, 20817

State: Maryland Government Spending

Plain-Language Summary

Department of Homeland Security obligated $193.3 million to MANTECH ADVANCED SYSTEMS INTERNATIONAL, INC. for work described as: IGF::OT::IGF SPEDI Key points: 1. Contract awarded through full and open competition, suggesting a competitive bidding process. 2. The contract type is Time and Materials, which can pose cost control risks if not managed closely. 3. The duration of the contract is substantial, spanning over 1800 days, indicating a long-term need for these services. 4. The specific North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code 541512 points to a focus on computer systems design. 5. The contract was awarded as a Delivery Order, implying it's part of a larger indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity (IDIQ) vehicle. 6. The contractor, MANTECH ADVANCED SYSTEMS INTERNATIONAL, INC., has secured a significant award, indicating a strong position in this service area.

Value Assessment

Rating: fair

Benchmarking the value of this contract is challenging without specific performance metrics or comparable contract data. The Time and Materials pricing model, while flexible, can lead to higher costs if not meticulously managed and monitored for efficiency. The sheer scale of the award suggests a significant need, but the absence of detailed cost breakdowns or performance comparisons makes a definitive value assessment difficult. Further analysis would require insight into the specific services rendered and their impact on USCIS operations.

Cost Per Unit: N/A

Competition Analysis

Competition Level: full-and-open

This contract was awarded under a full and open competition, indicating that all responsible sources were permitted to submit a bid. The presence of 10 bidders suggests a healthy level of competition for this requirement. A competitive process like this generally leads to better price discovery and potentially more favorable terms for the government compared to sole-source or limited competition awards.

Taxpayer Impact: A full and open competition ensures that taxpayer dollars are likely being used more efficiently by driving down prices through market forces. The government benefits from a wider pool of potential solutions and competitive pricing.

Public Impact

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) benefits from enhanced computer systems design and support. The services delivered are critical for the operational efficiency and technological infrastructure of USCIS. The contract's impact is primarily within the federal government's IT infrastructure, supporting national immigration services. Workforce implications may include the need for specialized IT professionals within the contractor's organization and potentially within USCIS for oversight.

Waste & Efficiency Indicators

Waste Risk Score: 50 / 10

Warning Flags

Time and Materials contract type can lead to cost overruns if not closely monitored.
Lack of specific performance metrics makes it difficult to assess the true value for money.
The long duration of the contract requires sustained oversight to ensure continued relevance and efficiency.

Positive Signals

Awarded through full and open competition, indicating a robust bidding process.
Multiple bidders participated, suggesting a competitive market for these services.
The contract addresses a critical IT need for a major federal agency.

Sector Analysis

This contract falls within the Computer Systems Design Services sector, a vital component of the broader IT services industry. This sector is characterized by rapid technological advancements and a high demand for specialized expertise. The market size for federal IT services is substantial, with agencies continually seeking to modernize their systems and enhance cybersecurity. This contract represents a significant investment in maintaining and improving the technological backbone of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.

Small Business Impact

The data indicates that this contract was not set aside for small businesses (ss: false, sb: false). Therefore, there are no direct subcontracting implications for small businesses stemming from a set-aside provision. However, the prime contractor may choose to subcontract portions of the work to small businesses as part of their overall business strategy, which could provide opportunities within the small business ecosystem.

Oversight & Accountability

Oversight for this contract would typically be managed by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) contracting officer and contract specialists. Accountability measures are inherent in the contract's performance requirements and delivery schedules. Transparency is facilitated through contract award databases like FPDS-NG. Inspector General jurisdiction would apply if any fraud, waste, or abuse is suspected or reported.

Related Government Programs

IT Services
Computer Systems Design
Federal IT Modernization
Department of Homeland Security IT Contracts
USCIS Technology Services

Risk Flags

Potential for cost overruns due to Time and Materials pricing model.
Long contract duration requires sustained oversight.
Need for clear performance metrics to ensure value for money.
Dependence on contractor's efficiency and cost management.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is this federal contract paying for?

Department of Homeland Security awarded $193.3 million to MANTECH ADVANCED SYSTEMS INTERNATIONAL, INC.. IGF::OT::IGF SPEDI

Who is the contractor on this award?

The obligated recipient is MANTECH ADVANCED SYSTEMS INTERNATIONAL, INC..

Which agency awarded this contract?

Awarding agency: Department of Homeland Security (U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services).

What is the total obligated amount?

The obligated amount is $193.3 million.

What is the period of performance?

Start: 2016-07-29. End: 2021-09-30.

What is the track record of MANTECH ADVANCED SYSTEMS INTERNATIONAL, INC. with federal contracts, particularly within DHS?

MANTECH ADVANCED SYSTEMS INTERNATIONAL, INC. has a history of securing federal contracts, including those with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Analyzing their past performance, including contract values, types, and agencies served, provides insight into their capabilities and reliability. A review of their contract history would reveal if they have successfully managed similar-sized projects, adhered to delivery schedules, and met performance expectations. Their experience within DHS specifically would indicate familiarity with the agency's unique requirements and operational environment. This information is crucial for assessing the risk associated with awarding them this significant contract and for understanding their capacity to deliver the required computer systems design services effectively.

How does the $193 million award compare to similar computer systems design contracts awarded by DHS or other agencies?

Comparing this $193 million award to similar computer systems design contracts requires access to a broader dataset of federal procurements. However, within the context of IT services for large federal agencies like DHS, awards in the hundreds of millions are not uncommon for comprehensive, multi-year projects. The key is to benchmark against contracts with similar scope, complexity, and duration. If comparable contracts for systems design and integration services for agencies of similar size and mission have similar or higher values, it suggests this award is within a reasonable range. Conversely, if similar contracts were awarded for significantly less, it might indicate potential overpricing or a less competitive scenario than ideal. The Time and Materials (T&M) nature of this contract also warrants comparison with T&M awards, as they can inflate costs compared to fixed-price contracts if not managed stringently.

What are the primary risks associated with a Time and Materials (T&M) contract of this magnitude and duration?

The primary risk associated with a Time and Materials (T&M) contract of this magnitude ($193 million) and duration (over 1800 days) is the potential for cost overruns. Unlike fixed-price contracts, T&M contracts do not have a ceiling on the total cost, as payment is based on the actual labor hours and materials used. This can lead to the government paying more than anticipated if the contractor's efficiency is low, if scope creep occurs without proper controls, or if the contractor inflates hours or material costs. Effective oversight, detailed tracking of labor hours, rigorous review of material invoices, and strong contract management are essential to mitigate these risks. Without robust controls, the government could end up paying a premium for services that could have been procured more cost-effectively.

How effective is full and open competition in ensuring value for money for computer systems design services?

Full and open competition is generally considered the most effective method for ensuring value for money in federal contracting. By allowing all responsible sources to compete, it fosters a dynamic marketplace where contractors are incentivized to offer competitive pricing, innovative solutions, and high-quality services to win the contract. The presence of 10 bidders in this specific case suggests a robust competitive environment, which should theoretically drive down costs and improve the overall value proposition for the government. However, the effectiveness is contingent on the clarity of the solicitation, the fairness of the evaluation process, and the government's ability to accurately define its needs. Even with open competition, poor contract management or unforeseen technical challenges can impact the final value realized.

What are the implications of the NAICS code 541512 (Computer Systems Design Services) for the type of work performed under this contract?

The North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code 541512 signifies that the contract is for 'Computer Systems Design Services.' This typically involves planning and designing computer systems that integrate hardware, software, and communication technologies. Services under this code can include analysis of an organization's current computer systems and needs, and the design of solutions, including system architecture, hardware and software selection, network design, and implementation planning. It implies that the contractor is expected to provide expertise in understanding complex IT environments and architecting solutions tailored to the specific requirements of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, rather than simply providing off-the-shelf software or hardware.

What is the significance of this contract being awarded as a 'Delivery Order'?

The designation of this award as a 'Delivery Order' indicates that it is a task order issued under a pre-existing Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contract or a similar type of multiple-award contract. IDIQ contracts establish terms and conditions, including pricing structures and performance standards, under which specific orders for goods or services can be placed over a defined period. A Delivery Order represents a specific commitment to purchase a defined quantity of goods or services at an agreed-upon price. This approach allows agencies to procure services more efficiently as needs arise, without having to conduct a full competitive procurement for each individual requirement. It suggests that MANTECH ADVANCED SYSTEMS INTERNATIONAL, INC. was likely awarded a spot on a larger contract vehicle through a prior competitive process.

Industry Classification

NAICS: Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services › Computer Systems Design and Related Services › Computer Systems Design Services

Product/Service Code: IT AND TELECOM - INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS › ADP AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS

Competition & Pricing

Extent Competed: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION

Solicitation Procedures: SUBJECT TO MULTIPLE AWARD FAIR OPPORTUNITY

Solicitation ID: HSSCCG-15-R-00005

Offers Received: 10

Pricing Type: TIME AND MATERIALS (Y)

Evaluated Preference: NONE

Contractor Details

Parent Company: Mantech International Corporation

Address: 2251 CORPORATE PARK DR STE 600, HERNDON, VA, 20171

Business Categories: Category Business, Corporate Entity Not Tax Exempt, Not Designated a Small Business, Special Designations, U.S.-Owned Business

Financial Breakdown

Contract Ceiling: $193,255,462

Exercised Options: $193,255,462

Current Obligation: $193,255,462

Actual Outlays: $80,721

Subaward Activity

Number of Subawards: 17

Total Subaward Amount: $858,013,177

Contract Characteristics

Multi-Year Contract: Yes

Commercial Item: COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS/SERVICES PROCEDURES NOT USED

Cost or Pricing Data: YES

Parent Contract

Parent Award PIID: HSHQDC14DE2017

IDV Type: IDC

Timeline