D -- Notice of Intent to Sole Source OML Software Maintenance and Support

This is a notice of intent for sole source procurement under the Simplified Acquisition Procedures (FAR 13) and Other Than Full and Open competition (FAR 6.302-1). A solicitation will not be issued. The associated NAICS code is 511210. Information Technology Services Contracts Team, Procurement Operations Division, U.S. Department of Agriculture intends to negotiate a sole source contract for purchase of OML Standard Solver, OML Modeling Component, OML Mixed-integer Component, and Hyper-capacity Xpress Optimizer with MIP add-on annual support/subscription maintenance provided by Ketron Optimization. The Government believes Ketron Optimization is the only source that will satisfy the agency requirements. The Government is contracting for maintenance subscription services on existing software products from which Ketron Optimization has proprietary rights. This notice of intent is not a request for competitive quotes; however, any firm that believes that it can meet the specifications above may give written notification to the contracting officer. Responses received will be evaluated; however, a determination by the Government not to compete the proposed procurement based upon responses to this notice is solely within the discretion of the Government. The Government anticipates an award date on or about January 28, 2007.