AJ11--Web-Based Assessments for Project IN DEPTH
Overview
Buyer
Place of Performance
NAICS
PSC
Set Aside
Original Source
Timeline
Qualification Details
Fit reasons
- NAICS alignment with historical contract wins in similar service areas.
- Scope strongly matches core technical capabilities and delivery model.
Risks
- Past performance thresholds may require one additional teaming partner.
- Potential clarification needed on staffing minimums before bid/no-bid.
Next steps
Validate eligibility requirements, assign capture owner, and schedule partner outreach to confirm teaming strategy before submission planning.
Quick Summary
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is conducting market research through this Sources Sought Announcement to identify qualified sources capable of providing web-based assessment services for Project IN DEPTH. This initiative involves hosting online surveys and questionnaires for Veteran research participants in a national study, specifically screening and evaluating Gulf War Veterans for referral to a separate NIH study (VA IN-DEPTH, IRB #20-34). Responses are due by February 27, 2026, at 11:00 AM EST.
Scope of Work
The selected contractor will provide a professional, internet-based platform for surveys and questionnaires. Key requirements include:
- Full compliance with FedRAMP requirements, including documentation, processes, technical capabilities, and obtaining an Authority to Operate (ATO).
- The platform must be Section 508 compliant and user-friendly for disabled recipients.
- Hosting and maintenance of the platform and content for approximately three years (Base + 2 Option Years).
- Providing service support for any platform issues, including site access and performance.
- Adherence to all VA security policies, Federal laws, regulations, standards, and VA Directives and Handbooks regarding information and information system security and privacy.
- Custom software development and outsourced operations must be located in the U.S. to the maximum extent practical.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sources Sought / Market Research
- Duration: Base Period: May 21, 2026 – May 20, 2027; Option Year 1: May 21, 2027 – May 20, 2028; Option Year 2: May 21, 2028 – May 20, 2029.
- Set-Aside: None specified (market research is being conducted to determine acquisition decisions).
- Response Due: February 27, 2026, 11:00 AM EST.
- Published: February 23, 2026.
- Place of Performance: Contractor's place of business.
Submission Requirements
Interested parties must submit a Capability Statement, limited to 5 pages, demonstrating technical expertise and experience relevant to the Statement of Work. Responses must include:
- Company Name, SAM Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) & CAGE code.
- Company Address, Point of Contact(s) name, Telephone number(s), Email address(s).
- Type of business (e.g., SDVOSB, VOSB, WOSB, small, large) and Company Business Size Status.
- Any previous similar contracts.
- Estimated pricing (for market research purposes only). Submissions should be sent via email to Melissa.ChanduviHolmes@va.gov, with the Sources Sought Number in the subject line.
Additional Notes
This is a market research announcement only and does not obligate the Government to award a contract. The VA intends to leverage a FedRAMP Authorized SaaS agency (such as Qualtrics, which currently holds an ATO with VHA) for this service. Strict security controls, data protection, encryption (FIPS 140-2, NIST 800-52), and incident reporting protocols are paramount, aligning with VA Directive 6500 and other Federal requirements.