DA01--New Action: Lynx Keyboard Panics System (VA-26-00063346)

Solicitation / RFP / RFQ

This is a combined synopsis/solicitation (RFQ 36C10B26Q0497) for the acquisition of the brand-name Lynx Keyboard Panic Solution. The purpose is to enhance staff safety and emergency response capabilities at the Western North Carolina VA Healthcare System in Asheville, North Carolina. This solicitation is issued on a Justification for an Exception to Fair Opportunity basis.

• Installation and configuration of Lynx software with licensing for up to 4,000 keyboard panic buttons.

• Integration with the existing CCURE-9000 Access Control System.

• Deployment of the Lynx Dispatcher for real-time emergency communication via existing VA Police dispatch radio systems.

• Radio Interface Integration (LYNX-DISP-3) for broadcasting alarm notifications over VA Police handheld radios using text-to-speech.

• The Lynx keyboard-based duress alarm system must be installed on all VHA workstation computers at specified VA facilities.

• Software must be compatible with VHA workstations, the VA intranet, and the CCURE-9000 system.

• Must allow for silent alerts, operate when logged on/off/locked, have a monthly test feature, and provide near-instantaneous alerts.

• Must comply with Section 508 accessibility standards for Information and Communication Technology (ICT).

• Must comply with energy efficiency and sustainability requirements.

• Must comply with VA's Technical Reference Model (TRM) and Critical Security Controls.

• Must support IPv6-Only and dual-stack connectivity.

• Must not contain disabling software code (e.g., viruses).

• Contract Type: Firm-Fixed-Price.

• Period of Performance: June 30, 2026, through June 29, 2027 (one 12-month base period).

• NAICS Code: 541519 – Other Computer Related Services.

• Size Standard: $34 Million.

• Offers must be submitted via email to Ana.Subashi@va.gov and Kendra.Casebolt@va.gov by the closing date.

• Use RFQ 36C10B26Q0497 in the subject line.

• Quotes must be on an "all or none" basis and complete the Price Schedule (B.4).

• Proposals must detail how all requirements in the Product Description (B.5) are met.

• Award will be made to the lowest priced, responsive, responsible offeror.

• This acquisition is set aside for Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Businesses (SDVOSBs).

• Offerors must be VIP-listed SDVOSBs at the time of offer and award.

• Government Points of Contact: Kendra Casebolt (Contracting Officer) and Ana Subashi (Contract Specialist).

• The solicitation incorporates FAR clauses by reference. Full text is available upon request or online.

• Offerors must provide an OEM letter certifying authorization to sell proposed products.

• Offerors must self-certify they will not provide Gray Market Goods or Counterfeit Electronic Parts.

Justification for an Exception to Fair Opportunity

This document justifies a firm-fixed-price contract for the brand name Lynx Keyboard Panic alarm system to enhance staff safety and emergency response capabilities at the Charles George VA Medical Center and its associated clinics. The system is required for every VHA workstation computer at these locations.

• Deployment of the Lynx Dispatcher for real-time emergency communication.

• Transmission of alerts and notifications via existing VA Police dispatch radio systems.

• Installation and configuration of Lynx software with licensing for up to 4,000 keyboard panic buttons (3,843 units requested).

• Integration with the existing CCURE-9000 Access Control System.

• Compatibility and seamless integration with the existing SSTV camera system and Motorola/Cynergy radio system.

• Contract Type: Firm-fixed-price.

• Period of Performance: June 30, 2026, through June 29, 2027.

• Total Estimated Value: Not explicitly stated, but implied to be at or below the simplified acquisition threshold.

• This document is a justification for an exception to fair opportunity, not a solicitation. It indicates that limited competition is available among authorized resellers for the brand name Lynx Keyboard Panic Solution.

• Not applicable, as this is a justification for a sole-source or limited competition action.

• The justification cites Statutory Authority 41 U.S.C. 1901 as implemented by FAR Overhaul VA Deviation 12.102 (a).

• Market research was conducted, identifying Lynx as the only source capable of meeting the stated requirements due to its compatibility with existing VA infrastructure, OI&T approval, and demonstrated reliability. Alternative systems faced challenges with integration, cloud-based architecture, or pilot testing failures.