SSA is seeking industry vendors that specialize in accelerating WAN traffic between SSA data centers and remote field offices. SSA WAN network comprises of a dual carrier multiprotocol layer switching (MPLS) WAN between the SSA data centers and approximately 1,800 remote field offices. The dual carrier MPLS connectivity provides SSA with diversity in the event of failure of either dual carrier MPLS WAN. It also provides SSA with the ability to load share traffic from any field office to any site connected to the dual carrier MPLS network.

SSA identified multiple WAN acceleration functions that could be beneficial to SSA's WAN network, and included these functions in the document attached to this notice. SSA understands that no current technology can meet all of the functions identified; however, SSA encourages businesses currently providing technology solutions that include many of these functions to submit details of their capabilities. Should SSA proceed to procure this technology, SSA intends to use any information provided in response to this notice to develop an acquisition strategy and statement of work. Specifically, respondents must submit, at a minimum, the following information:

1) Corporate experience, including socioeconomic and business size status;

2) Brief summary on the strategy you recommend to accelerate WAN traffic SSA's network infrastructure;

3) Overall capabilities, with an emphasis on meeting performance requirements, customer satisfaction, return-to-service times, equipment manufacturers supported, service areas, and manpower;

4) Details on experience performing requirements of similar size and scope, particularly for Government customers where security procedures and access to sensitive/personally-identifiable information apply. List no more than three past contracts/subcontracts similar in size and scope to the requirements mentioned in this sources sought; and

5) Availability of services through existing Government-Wide Acquisition Contracts (i.e. GSA Federal Supply Schedules, NASA SEWP, etc.). Please include a copy of your GSA/GWAC schedule, if applicable.

Interested sources that believe they have the bona fide capability to provide WAN acceleration technology should submit a detailed statement of their solution, in writing, to Christopher Mettee, Contract Specialist, Division of Information Technology and Maintenance, 7111 Security Boulevard, First Floor Rear Entrance, Baltimore, MD 21244. SSA will accept responses submitted electronically via email at [email protected]. You may fax information to (410) 965-9486. Please reference SSA-RFI-NWLM1 in the email subject line. SSA must receive all responses by 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time on April 15, 2009.

Synopsis Terms and Conditions:

• This is a sources sought announcement, a market survey for written information only.

• This is not a solicitation announcement for proposals and the Government will not award a contract from this announcement.

• The Government will not reimburse for any costs associated with providing information in response to this announcement or any follow-up information requests.

• The Government will not accept any telephone calls, or requests for a bid package or solicitation. There is no bid package or solicitation.

• In order to protect the procurement integrity of any future procurement, if any, that may arise from this announcement; the Government will not give information regarding the technical point of contact.

• The Government will not make appointments for presentations. This synopsis is for planning purposes only, not a commitment by the Government.

• The Government will use responses to this sources sought/market research notice to make appropriate acquisition decisions.