GSA awards $34.4M contract for Joint Simulation Systems to J.F. Taylor, Inc., focusing on computer systems design

Contract Overview

Contract Amount: $34,439,311 ($34.4M)

Contractor: J.F. Taylor, Inc.

Awarding Agency: General Services Administration

Start Date: 2022-09-30

End Date: 2027-01-31

Contract Duration: 1,584 days

Daily Burn Rate: $21.7K/day

Competition Type: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION

Number of Offers Received: 1

Pricing Type: FIRM FIXED PRICE

Sector: IT

Official Description: JOINT SIMULATION SYSTEMS PROGRAM TSSC

Place of Performance

Location: RANDOLPH AFB, BEXAR County, TEXAS, 78150

State: Texas Government Spending

Plain-Language Summary

General Services Administration obligated $34.4 million to J.F. TAYLOR, INC. for work described as: JOINT SIMULATION SYSTEMS PROGRAM TSSC Key points: 1. Contract value represents a significant investment in simulation technology. 2. Competition dynamics for this contract are assessed to understand pricing efficiency. 3. Risk indicators are evaluated based on contractor performance and contract type. 4. Performance context is provided by comparing this award to similar simulation system contracts. 5. Sector positioning highlights the role of computer systems design in defense and training. 6. The contract's duration suggests a long-term need for these simulation capabilities.

Value Assessment

Rating: good

The contract value of $34.4 million for Joint Simulation Systems appears reasonable given the specialized nature of computer systems design services. Benchmarking against similar contracts for advanced simulation and training systems would provide a more precise value-for-money assessment. The firm fixed-price structure suggests that the contractor bears the primary risk for cost overruns, which can be a positive indicator for the government if managed effectively.

Cost Per Unit: N/A

Competition Analysis

Competition Level: full-and-open

This contract was awarded under full and open competition, indicating that multiple vendors had the opportunity to bid. The presence of a single award for this delivery order suggests that J.F. Taylor, Inc. was selected as the most advantageous offer. The level of competition, while not explicitly detailed by the number of bidders, is generally expected to drive competitive pricing and innovation.

Taxpayer Impact: Full and open competition is beneficial for taxpayers as it typically leads to more competitive pricing and a wider range of solutions, ensuring the government receives the best value for its investment.

Public Impact

The primary beneficiaries are likely military or defense organizations requiring advanced simulation capabilities for training and operational planning. The services delivered include the design and potentially development of complex computer systems for simulation purposes. The geographic impact is noted as Texas (TX), suggesting a concentration of operations or performance in that state. Workforce implications may include the need for specialized engineers, software developers, and simulation technicians.

Waste & Efficiency Indicators

Waste Risk Score: 50 / 10

Warning Flags

Potential for scope creep if requirements are not clearly defined and managed throughout the contract duration.
Dependence on a single contractor for critical simulation system development could pose a risk if performance issues arise.

Positive Signals

Awarded under full and open competition, suggesting a robust selection process.
Firm fixed-price contract type shifts cost risk to the contractor.
Long contract duration (through 2027) indicates a sustained need and potential for long-term partnership.

Sector Analysis

The computer systems design services sector is a critical component of the broader IT industry, supporting specialized needs across government and commercial entities. This contract fits within the segment focused on high-fidelity simulation and training systems, often utilized in defense, aerospace, and complex industrial applications. Market size for such specialized design services can be substantial, driven by technological advancements and the demand for realistic virtual environments.

Small Business Impact

This contract was not set aside for small businesses, and there is no indication of specific subcontracting requirements for small businesses in the provided data. The award to J.F. Taylor, Inc., a single entity, suggests that the primary focus was on technical capability and best value rather than small business participation goals for this specific award. Further analysis of subcontracting plans would be needed to assess the impact on the small business ecosystem.

Oversight & Accountability

Oversight for this contract would typically fall under the purview of the General Services Administration (GSA) and the specific program office utilizing the Joint Simulation Systems. Accountability measures are inherent in the firm fixed-price contract type, which incentivizes the contractor to meet performance standards within budget. Transparency is generally maintained through contract award databases and reporting requirements, though specific oversight details may vary.

Related Government Programs

Simulation and Training Systems
Computer Systems Design
Defense IT Services
Federal Acquisition Service Contracts

Risk Flags

Contract performance risk
Potential for scope creep
Dependence on single contractor

Frequently Asked Questions

What is this federal contract paying for?

General Services Administration awarded $34.4 million to J.F. TAYLOR, INC.. JOINT SIMULATION SYSTEMS PROGRAM TSSC

Who is the contractor on this award?

The obligated recipient is J.F. TAYLOR, INC..

Which agency awarded this contract?

Awarding agency: General Services Administration (Federal Acquisition Service).

What is the total obligated amount?

The obligated amount is $34.4 million.

What is the period of performance?

Start: 2022-09-30. End: 2027-01-31.

What is the historical spending pattern for Joint Simulation Systems or similar programs managed by GSA?

Analyzing historical spending for Joint Simulation Systems or comparable programs under GSA requires access to detailed federal procurement data. Typically, such systems represent significant, long-term investments. Spending patterns can fluctuate based on technological evolution, defense readiness needs, and budget allocations. For instance, periods of increased geopolitical tension or the introduction of new military doctrines often correlate with higher spending on advanced simulation and training technologies. GSA's role as an intermediary often means they facilitate contracts for various agencies, so understanding the end-user agency's budget cycles and strategic priorities is also crucial. Without specific historical data for this exact program, we can infer that spending on simulation systems is generally characterized by multi-year commitments and substantial capital outlays, reflecting the complexity and critical nature of the technology.

How does the awarded amount compare to the estimated value or previous contract awards for this service?

The awarded amount of $34.4 million for the Joint Simulation Systems Program TSSC is a specific data point. To compare it effectively, we would need to know the estimated value set by the agency prior to the solicitation and the value of any previous contracts for similar services. If this is a new program, the $34.4 million represents the initial investment. If it's a continuation or expansion, comparing it to prior contract values would reveal trends in cost escalation or efficiency gains. For example, if a previous iteration of this system cost $25 million over a similar period, the current award might indicate inflation, increased scope, or improved technology. Conversely, if previous contracts were significantly higher, this award could suggest successful cost management or increased competition driving down prices. Without comparative historical data, assessing the value proposition solely on the current award is limited.

What is J.F. Taylor, Inc.'s track record with similar government contracts, particularly in simulation systems?

J.F. Taylor, Inc. has a history of performing government contracts, including those related to simulation and training systems. A thorough review of their past performance, available through federal procurement databases like SAM.gov or FPDS, would reveal the types of contracts they have held, their performance ratings, and any past issues or successes. For simulation systems, their experience might encompass hardware integration, software development, and system maintenance. Assessing their track record involves looking at contract values, durations, and the complexity of the systems delivered. Positive past performance on similar, large-scale simulation projects would increase confidence in their ability to execute this current $34.4 million contract successfully. Conversely, any history of performance deficiencies or contract disputes would be a significant risk indicator.

What are the key performance indicators (KPIs) for this contract, and how will success be measured?

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for a contract like the Joint Simulation Systems Program TSSC are crucial for ensuring the government receives the intended value. While not explicitly detailed in the provided data, typical KPIs for computer systems design and simulation development would include system reliability (uptime, error rates), performance metrics (processing speed, accuracy of simulations), adherence to technical specifications, timely delivery of milestones, and user satisfaction. Success measurement would likely involve rigorous testing and validation phases, acceptance testing by the end-users, and ongoing performance monitoring throughout the contract's duration. The firm fixed-price nature implies that meeting these defined performance standards is paramount for the contractor to achieve full payment and avoid penalties.

What is the potential impact of this contract on the broader defense simulation and training market?

This $34.4 million contract for Joint Simulation Systems awarded to J.F. Taylor, Inc. can have a notable impact on the defense simulation and training market. Firstly, it validates the market demand for advanced simulation capabilities, potentially encouraging further investment and innovation from other companies in the sector. Secondly, the success or challenges faced by J.F. Taylor, Inc. on this contract can influence future procurement decisions and contractor selections within the defense community. If the system proves highly effective, it could set a new benchmark for similar systems. Conversely, any significant issues could lead to more stringent requirements in future solicitations. Furthermore, the contract may foster competition by demonstrating the capabilities of specific technologies or approaches, potentially leading to price reductions or improved offerings across the market.

Industry Classification

NAICS: Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services › Computer Systems Design and Related Services › Computer Systems Design Services

Product/Service Code: SUPPORT SVCS (PROF, ADMIN, MGMT) › PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

Competition & Pricing

Extent Competed: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION

Solicitation Procedures: SUBJECT TO MULTIPLE AWARD FAIR OPPORTUNITY

Solicitation ID: 47QFWA22R0020

Offers Received: 1

Pricing Type: FIRM FIXED PRICE (J)

Evaluated Preference: NONE

Contractor Details

Address: 21610 SOUTH ESSEX DR, LEXINGTON PARK, MD, 20653

Business Categories: Category Business, Corporate Entity Not Tax Exempt, Not Designated a Small Business, Special Designations, Subchapter S Corporation, U.S.-Owned Business

Financial Breakdown

Contract Ceiling: $50,479,690

Exercised Options: $40,761,889

Current Obligation: $34,439,311

Subaward Activity

Number of Subawards: 36

Total Subaward Amount: $40,637,659

Contract Characteristics

Commercial Item: COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS/SERVICES

Cost or Pricing Data: NO

Parent Contract

Parent Award PIID: 47QFWA19D0003

IDV Type: IDC

Timeline