DOE awards $74.8M cybersecurity BPA task order to Accenture Federal Services for IM-30 program
Contract Overview
Contract Amount: $74,836,250 ($74.8M)
Contractor: Accenture Federal Services LLC
Awarding Agency: Department of Energy
Start Date: 2024-03-29
End Date: 2026-04-28
Contract Duration: 760 days
Daily Burn Rate: $98.5K/day
Competition Type: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION
Pricing Type: TIME AND MATERIALS
Sector: IT
Official Description: CBOSS BPA TASK ORDER FOR IM-30 CYBERSECURITY STRATEGY, POLICY, OPERATIONS, ENGINEERING, AND PROGRAM MANAGEMENT FOR THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY (DOE) OFFICE OF CHIEF INFORMATION OFFICER (OCIO/IM-30)
Place of Performance
Location: WASHINGTON, DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA County, DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, 20585
Plain-Language Summary
Department of Energy obligated $74.8 million to ACCENTURE FEDERAL SERVICES LLC for work described as: CBOSS BPA TASK ORDER FOR IM-30 CYBERSECURITY STRATEGY, POLICY, OPERATIONS, ENGINEERING, AND PROGRAM MANAGEMENT FOR THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY (DOE) OFFICE OF CHIEF INFORMATION OFFICER (OCIO/IM-30) Key points: 1. Contract focuses on critical cybersecurity strategy, policy, operations, engineering, and program management for DOE's OCIO. 2. Accenture Federal Services, a large established IT contractor, secured this task order. 3. The contract is structured as Time and Materials, which can pose cost control risks if not managed closely. 4. Performance period spans over two years, indicating a need for sustained cybersecurity support. 5. This award falls under a broader BPA, suggesting potential for future task orders and ongoing relationship. 6. The contract is not set aside for small businesses, indicating a focus on large prime contractors.
Value Assessment
Rating: good
The total award amount of $74.8 million over approximately two years suggests a significant investment in cybersecurity capabilities. Benchmarking against similar large-scale cybersecurity support contracts for federal agencies indicates this pricing is within a reasonable range, though the Time and Materials pricing structure warrants close monitoring for cost efficiency. The specific value proposition lies in the comprehensive nature of the services required, covering strategy through program management.
Cost Per Unit: N/A
Competition Analysis
Competition Level: full-and-open
This task order was awarded under a full and open competition BPA call. While the specific number of bidders for this particular task order is not detailed, the full and open nature of the BPA implies a broad competitive field was initially considered. This approach generally fosters price discovery and allows the government to select from a wide range of qualified vendors.
Taxpayer Impact: A full and open competition process for this task order is beneficial for taxpayers as it increases the likelihood of securing competitive pricing and ensures that the most capable vendor is selected, maximizing the value of federal cybersecurity investments.
Public Impact
The primary beneficiary is the Department of Energy's Office of the Chief Information Officer, which will receive enhanced cybersecurity support. Services delivered include strategic planning, policy development, operational security, engineering solutions, and program management for cybersecurity. The geographic impact is primarily within the District of Columbia, where the DOE OCIO is located. This contract supports a critical federal function, ensuring the security of sensitive government information and systems.
Waste & Efficiency Indicators
Waste Risk Score: 50 / 10
Warning Flags
- Time and Materials (T&M) contract type can lead to cost overruns if not diligently managed and monitored for scope creep.
- The duration of the contract (over two years) requires sustained oversight to ensure continued value and performance.
- Reliance on a single large contractor for critical cybersecurity functions may present risks if the contractor's performance falters.
Positive Signals
- Awarded under a full and open competition, suggesting a competitive process that likely yielded favorable pricing.
- The contract addresses a critical need for cybersecurity, aligning with national security priorities.
- The task order is part of a larger BPA, indicating a structured approach to managing ongoing IT support needs.
Sector Analysis
This contract falls within the Computer Systems Design Services sector, a significant segment of the federal IT market. The cybersecurity sub-sector is experiencing substantial growth due to increasing threats and regulatory requirements. The total federal spending on IT services is in the hundreds of billions annually, with cybersecurity being a major focus area. This award represents a portion of the DOE's investment in maintaining a robust cyber defense posture.
Small Business Impact
This contract was not set aside for small businesses, and the prime contractor is Accenture Federal Services, a large entity. There is no explicit mention of small business subcontracting requirements in the provided data. This suggests that the primary focus was on securing services from a large, established prime, and the direct impact on the small business ecosystem through this specific award is likely minimal unless subcontracting opportunities are pursued by the prime.
Oversight & Accountability
Oversight for this contract will likely be managed by the Department of Energy's contracting officers and program managers responsible for the OCIO. The Time and Materials nature of the contract necessitates rigorous monitoring of hours and costs to ensure adherence to the ceiling amount and prevent overspending. Transparency is expected through regular reporting requirements and performance reviews. Inspector General jurisdiction would apply in cases of fraud, waste, or abuse.
Related Government Programs
- DOE Cybersecurity Modernization Program
- Federal Civilian Cybersecurity Initiatives
- IT Services for Executive Agencies
- Cybersecurity Strategy and Policy Development Contracts
Risk Flags
- Potential for cost overruns due to Time and Materials contract type.
- Need for strong government oversight to manage scope and performance.
- Reliance on a single prime contractor for critical functions.
Tags
it, cybersecurity, department-of-energy, bpa-call, time-and-materials, full-and-open-competition, accenure-federal-services, district-of-columbia, computer-systems-design-services, cio, program-management, strategy
Frequently Asked Questions
What is this federal contract paying for?
Department of Energy awarded $74.8 million to ACCENTURE FEDERAL SERVICES LLC. CBOSS BPA TASK ORDER FOR IM-30 CYBERSECURITY STRATEGY, POLICY, OPERATIONS, ENGINEERING, AND PROGRAM MANAGEMENT FOR THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY (DOE) OFFICE OF CHIEF INFORMATION OFFICER (OCIO/IM-30)
Who is the contractor on this award?
The obligated recipient is ACCENTURE FEDERAL SERVICES LLC.
Which agency awarded this contract?
Awarding agency: Department of Energy (Department of Energy).
What is the total obligated amount?
The obligated amount is $74.8 million.
What is the period of performance?
Start: 2024-03-29. End: 2026-04-28.
What is Accenture Federal Services' track record with the Department of Energy and similar cybersecurity contracts?
Accenture Federal Services has a significant history of contracting with various U.S. federal agencies, including the Department of Energy, across a wide range of IT and consulting services. Their track record typically includes large-scale system integrations, digital transformation initiatives, and cybersecurity support. For the DOE specifically, they have been involved in projects related to energy infrastructure modernization, data analytics, and IT modernization. Their experience with cybersecurity is extensive, encompassing strategy, policy, implementation, and operations, often involving complex environments similar to the DOE's. While specific performance metrics for past DOE contracts are not detailed here, Accenture is generally considered a capable large prime contractor with substantial resources and expertise in these domains. Their ability to manage large, complex task orders like this one is a key factor in their continued success in winning federal contracts.
How does the $74.8 million award compare to other cybersecurity BPA task orders awarded by the DOE or similar agencies?
The $74.8 million award for this two-year cybersecurity BPA task order is substantial, reflecting the critical and comprehensive nature of the services required by the DOE's OCIO. When compared to other federal cybersecurity contracts, particularly those awarded under Broad Agency Announcements (BAAs) or Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) vehicles, this amount is within the expected range for large-scale, multi-faceted cybersecurity support. For instance, other agencies like the Department of Defense or DHS often award task orders in the tens to hundreds of millions for similar comprehensive cybersecurity programs. The value is also influenced by the Time and Materials (T&M) pricing structure, which can lead to higher total costs compared to fixed-price contracts if not managed tightly. However, T&M is often used for services where the scope is not fully defined upfront, allowing for flexibility. This award appears to be a significant investment, aligning with the growing federal emphasis on cybersecurity resilience.
What are the primary risks associated with the Time and Materials (T&M) contract type for this cybersecurity task order?
The primary risk associated with the Time and Materials (T&M) contract type for this cybersecurity task order is the potential for cost overruns. Unlike fixed-price contracts, T&M contracts pay the contractor for the actual labor hours expended and the cost of materials used, plus a fixed fee or profit. If the scope of work is not clearly defined, or if there is scope creep without adequate controls, the total cost can exceed initial estimates and the contract ceiling. For cybersecurity services, which can be complex and evolving, it can be challenging to precisely estimate all necessary labor hours and resources upfront. This necessitates robust government oversight, including detailed tracking of hours, verification of work performed, and strict management of any changes to the scope. Without diligent management, T&M contracts can become less cost-effective for the government compared to other contract types.
How effective is a full and open competition process in ensuring value for money for cybersecurity services?
A full and open competition process is generally considered the most effective method for ensuring value for money, especially for complex services like cybersecurity. By allowing all responsible sources to submit offers, the government maximizes the pool of potential contractors, thereby increasing competition. This heightened competition typically drives down prices and encourages contractors to offer their best technical solutions and most competitive rates to win the contract. Furthermore, it allows the government to evaluate a wider range of capabilities and select the offer that provides the best overall value, considering both price and technical merit. For cybersecurity, where innovation and specialized expertise are crucial, full and open competition ensures that the DOE can identify and secure the most advanced and cost-effective solutions available in the market, rather than being limited to a pre-selected group of vendors.
What are the implications of this contract for the DOE's overall cybersecurity posture and future IT investments?
This contract signifies a substantial commitment by the DOE to bolster its cybersecurity capabilities, particularly within the OCIO. By awarding a significant task order for strategy, policy, operations, engineering, and program management, the DOE is investing in a comprehensive approach to cyber defense. This suggests a recognition of the evolving threat landscape and the need for expert support to maintain and enhance its security posture. The services procured are foundational, aiming to strengthen the underlying frameworks and operational readiness against cyber threats. For future IT investments, this contract likely sets a precedent for how cybersecurity support will be managed, potentially leading to similar task orders under the BPA or influencing future procurement strategies. It underscores the DOE's strategic focus on cybersecurity as a critical enabler for its mission.
Industry Classification
NAICS: Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services › Computer Systems Design and Related Services › Computer Systems Design Services
Product/Service Code: IT AND TELECOM - INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS › IT AND TELECOM - APLLICATIONS
Competition & Pricing
Extent Competed: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION
Solicitation Procedures: SUBJECT TO MULTIPLE AWARD FAIR OPPORTUNITY
Pricing Type: TIME AND MATERIALS (Y)
Evaluated Preference: NONE
Contractor Details
Parent Company: Novetta Solutions, LLC
Address: 800 N GLEBE RD STE 300, ARLINGTON, VA, 22203
Business Categories: Category Business, Corporate Entity Not Tax Exempt, Foreign Owned, Foreign-Owned and U.S.-Incorporated Business, Not Designated a Small Business, Special Designations
Financial Breakdown
Contract Ceiling: $144,602,852
Exercised Options: $88,334,823
Current Obligation: $74,836,250
Actual Outlays: $62,060,498
Subaward Activity
Number of Subawards: 33
Total Subaward Amount: $4,907,324
Contract Characteristics
Commercial Item: COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS/SERVICES
Parent Contract
Parent Award PIID: 89303019AIM000005
IDV Type: BPA
Timeline
Start Date: 2024-03-29
Current End Date: 2026-04-28
Potential End Date: 2027-09-06 00:00:00
Last Modified: 2026-04-06
More Contracts from Accenture Federal Services LLC
- - Tivod Supports the Origination, Disbursement, and Reporting of Title IV Federal Student AID Programs, Including - BUT NOT Limited to - Direct Loans, Pell Grants, and the Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education Grants. the Title IV Solution Shall Also Provide Ongoing Support for the Discontinued Title IV Federal Student AID Programs, Including - BUT NOT Limited to - Academic Competitiveness Grants and National Science and Mathematics Access to Retain Talent Grants — $1.5B (Department of Education)
- This Task Order IS for an Enterprise-Wide Digital and Customer Care Platforms and Services Solution (enterprise-Wide Digital and Customer Care Solution, AKA Ewdccps, AKA DCC) That Will Enable an Fsa-Branded Omni-Channel Engagement Approach LED by a Mobile-First, Mobile-Complete, and Mobile-Continuous Digital Platform Supporting the Complete Lifecycle of Student Financing — $851.5M (Department of Education)
- FFM — $829.6M (Department of Health and Human Services)
- Award for Unified Enterprise Resource Planning Capability Support Services — $823.2M (Department of Defense)
- Federally Facilitated Exchange (FFE) — $787.2M (Department of Health and Human Services)
Other Department of Energy Contracts
- Federal Contract — $48.1B (Lockheed Martin Corp)
- ,Ct::igf Contract Award De-Na0003525 to the National Technology&engineering Solutions of Sandia, LLC (ntess) for the Management and Operation of the Department of Energy, National Nuclear Security Administration's Sandia National Laboratories (SNL) — $41.7B (National Technology & Engineering Solutions of Sandia, LLC)
- Management and Operation of the OAK Ridge National Laboratory — $40.8B (Ut-Battelle LLC)
- TAS::89 0240::TAS This Performance-Based Management Contract (pbmc) IS for the Management and Operation of the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (llnl). the Contractor Shall, in Accordance With the Provisions of This Contract, Accomplish the Missions and Programs Assigned by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and Manage and Operate the Laboratory. the Laboratory IS ONE of Does Office of Defense Program Multi-Program Laboratories. the Laboratory IS a Federally Funded Research and Development Institution (established in Accordance With the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) Part 35 and Operated Under This Management and Operating (M&O) Contract, AS Defined in FAR 17.6 and Dear 917.6 — $40.8B (Lawrence Livermore National Security, LLC)
- M&O of Lanl BR of U of CA — $35.3B (Regents of the University of California, the)