Currently, SSA owns the right to use Ivory BMS/TS Package software by GT Software, which is installed on System 93 in the SSC.  The software maintenance subscription is based on Cheryl Watson's chart of millions of instructions per second (MIPS).  The mainframe configuration at the start of this period of performance will be an IBM z/196 2817-713, with the Cheryl Watson MIPS rating of 12181.  The place of performance is the SSC, Durham, North Carolina.  The period of performance for the proposed firm-fixed price award is from 11/02/2012 to 11/01/2013.

This software is proprietary and as such GT Software has an exclusive right and does not authorize resellers or other entities to maintain BMS/TS software.  Other organizations possessing the requisite expertise and resources are invited to submit information concerning their capabilities, expertise, and other pertinent data.  Pricing may be submitted.  Written responses to this synopsis shall contain sufficient documentation to establish a bona fide capability to fulfill this requirement.  

This is not a request for quotation; rather, this posting constitutes SSA's notice of intent to negotiate on a sole source basis with GT Software, Inc. for the above specified requirement.  SSA does not intend to pay for any information received.  If SSA does not identify other acceptable sources capable of providing the software maintenance and relevant upgrades, then it will issue a sole source award to GT Software, Inc. using the policies and procedures in FAR Part 12, in conjunction with those in FAR Part 13.

Interested vendors must submit responses to this notice by 1200 EST on 10/26/2012.  SSA will not honor or acknowledge requests for copies of a solicitation.  Oral communications are not acceptable.