Sole Source: Terrasolid Software Maintenance award to Vertical Aspect LLC
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 National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), specifically the National Geodetic Survey (NGS), has issued a Sole Source Justification for the procurement of Terrasolid Software Maintenance from Vertical Aspect LLC. This action is justified under FAR 12.102(A) due to the proprietary nature of the software and Vertical Aspect LLC being the sole U.S. distributor. The software is critical for NOAA's shoreline mapping and LIDAR data processing workflows. This justification was published on April 21, 2026.
Purpose & Justification
NOAA's NOS requires specialized technology for shoreline mapping, utilizing remote sensing techniques like LIDAR, which produce extremely large datasets. Most commercial GIS software cannot manage, visualize, edit, and analyze these large datasets efficiently. Terrasolid software is unique in its ability to handle large LIDAR data sets, manage workflows, and apply LIDAR strip and calibration error adjustments. This capability is essential for NGS to review data quality, ensure integrity and accuracy, and continue processing and distribution of critical coastal mapping data.
Contract Details
- Type: Sole Source Justification
- Product/Service: Terrasolid Software Maintenance (PSC: 7A21 - Business Application Off The Shelf Software)
- Intended Awardee: Vertical Aspect LLC, Kansas City, MO
- Agency: Department of Commerce, NOAA, National Ocean Service (NOS), National Geodetic Survey (NGS)
- Place of Performance: Silver Spring, MD
- Published Date: April 21, 2026
Sole Source Rationale
Vertical Aspect LLC is identified as the only U.S. distributor of Terrasolid software. The software is proprietary, and no other vendor possesses the source code or can provide the necessary licenses or maintenance services. Its full integration into NGS's current LIDAR processing workflow makes it indispensable, and a break in service would severely impact NOAA's critical mission requirements.
Contact Information
For inquiries, contact Chelsea Vera at chelsea.vera@noaa.gov.