D -- Sole Source Synopsis for Step508 Tool

The Step508 Tool is a new electronic technical solution focused on providing website error prioritization for Section 508 compliance. This tool prioritizes the repairs that should be made to a website to ensure that the site is compliant with the accessibility requirements of Section 508 that provides access to information technology for persons with disabilities. The Step508 Tool was developed as a partial solution to help the Federal government to create an operating and management environment that meets legislated requirements and enables all citizens access to information, programs, services and employment. The tool is also designed to provide metrics that report progress in improving the accessibility of a site over time. GSA proposes to award a sole source contract to National Center for Accessible Media (NCAM), the original developer of the Step508 software, to enhance the capabilities and functionalities of the software. Enhancements to the Step508 tool includes: additional output pages; develop a generalized input format (XML/DTD) or schema; develop reporting metrics on statistical methods for gathering and including data from manual checks for prioritization analysis; and development of a reparability value adjustment interface to allow users to modify values of errors in order to accommodate changes in technology. GSA believes that only NCAM possesses the required capability and technical expertise to perform this requirement. Any other firm desiring consideration must fully identify its capability to perform this requirement within the required timeframe and allotted budget. GSA plans to make a sole source award to NCAM after fifteen (15 days) of the publication of this notice. Please note that this announcement is not a Request for Proposal and no solicitation will be issued as a result.