Networx Program Designated Agency Representatives (DARs)

June 10, 2010

Project: HHS OCIO Policy for Networx Program DAR
Document Number: HHS-OCIO-2010-0005

Table of Contents

  1. Nature of Changes
  2. Purpose
  3. Background
  4. Scope
  5. Policy
  6. Fair Opportunity
  7. Roles and Responsibilities
  8. Information and Assistance
  9. Effective Date/Implementation
  10. Approved
  11. Glossary
  12. ATTACHMENT 1: NETWORX INFORMATION

1. Nature of Changes

This is a revision to the January 14, 2009 issuance of the HHS-OCIO Policy for Networx Program Designated Agency Representatives (DARs) in response to further definition and guidance by the HHS Contracting Officer. Modifications to this policy can be found in the following section;

  1. Section 2, Purpose: “..move from the FTS 2001 contract to the Networx contract and its….”
  2. Section 5 Policy changed wording from guidance to requirements and spelled out CLIN.
  3. Section 6, Roles and Responsibilities, has been modified to further define the organizations roles under the Networx Service Contract.
  4. Attachment I, Networx Information, has been modified to include the Networx Program Management Office (NxPMO) contact information.
  5. Editorial changes made throughout.

2. Purpose

The purpose of this Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Policy is to identify and provide supplemental information in the establishment of titles, roles and responsibilities of Designated Agency Representatives (DARs) for the move from the FTS-2001 contract to the Networx contract and its transition program. This Policy provides an overview of the applicable rules and regulations that govern the Networx service ordering process. The information provided is applicable to individuals who are appointed as DARs and become authorized telecommunication service ordering officials for the Department or their Operating Division (OPDIV). For further policy guidance or specific questions regarding ordering requirements, the DARs should contact the responsible agency Contracting Officer (CO) for assistance or clarification.

This Policy supersedes the HHS-OCIO-2009-0001, Policy for Networx Program Designated Agency Representatives, dated January 14, 2009.

3. Background

3.1. HHS

In January 2007, the FTS-2001 contract used by HHS for most of its telecommunications voice, video, and data services expired. A 42-month bridge contract has been put into place by GSA to allow for planning and execution of a transition from FTS-2001 to its replacement contract, Networx Universal and Networx Enterprise. The Health and Human Services (HHS) Office of the Chief Information Officer (OCIO) is managing the agency’s transition to Networx and participates in the GSA Transition Working Group, Security Working Group and OPS Working Group. The OCIO senior telecommunications manager serves as the HHS Transition Manager and chairs the HHS Telecommunications Council which will serve as the HHS Transition Team.

Transition is expected to take approximately 3 years from the date of the Networx contract awards: Universal (03/29/07) and Enterprise (05/31/07).

3.2. Networx

The Networx contracts provide comprehensive, best-value telecommunications and networking services and technical solutions to all Federal Agencies. The Networx program serves as the primary replacement for the expiring FTS2001 and FTS2001 Crossover contracts and Federal wireless contracts.

Networx introduces new technologies, new industry partners, and new ways to achieve a more efficient and effective Government. It will allow Agencies to focus resources on building a seamless and interoperable operating environment while GSA ensures Agency access to the best technologies that industry has to offer. Also, the Networx contract is designed to leverage the

Government’s buying power to obtain highly competitive prices from the Networx vendors.

The Networx program consists of two parallel acquisitions: Networx Universal and Networx

Enterprise. Both Networx Universal and Enterprise are broadly scoped acquisitions that provide a comprehensive suite of services. Networx includes current services and addresses anticipated future needs of Agency customers. These new services have been determined based on extensive market research and technical analysis; have been reviewed by Agency customers to ensure an adequate market exists; and, have been adjusted based on industry best practices. HHS will utilize the Universal contract.

3.3. GSA FAS

The General Services Administration (GSA) Federal Acquisition Service’s (FAS) Networx contracts are multiple-award, indefinite delivery vehicles; their implementation and the ordering procedures established are subject to the regulatory requirements of the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) Subpart 16.5.

Pursuant to FAR Subpart 16.5, and with limited exceptions, all orders over $3,000 must have a Fair Opportunity assessment documented by an agency Contracting Officer (CO). Since agencies may place thousands of network services orders that exceed $3,000, they must have a mechanism that will enable them to manage and administer the workload associated with this large volume of telecommunications orders. In order to ensure the ordering process is timely, efficient, follows procurement regulations, and allows the agencies to meet mission requirements, additional-trained individuals may be identified who can assist the agency contracting officers and telecommunications managers to responsibly meet their day to day requirements.

4. Scope

This Policy applies to all HHS organizational components (i.e., Operating Divisions [OPDIVs] and Staff Divisions [STAFFDIVs]) and organizations conducting business for and on behalf of the Department through contractual relationships when using HHS information technology (IT) resources. This Policy does not supersede any other applicable law, higher level agency directive, or existing labor management agreement in effect as of the effective date of this Policy.

Department officials shall apply this Policy to employees, contractor personnel, interns, and other non-government employees. All organizations collecting or maintaining information, or using or operating information systems on behalf of the Department, are also subject to the stipulations of this Policy. The content of and compliance with this Policy shall be incorporated into applicable contract language or memoranda of agreement under separate cover (e.g., Interim HHSAR policy), as appropriate.

Agencies shall use this Policy or may create a more restrictive OPDIV/STAFFDIV policy, but not one that is less restrictive, less comprehensive, or less compliant with this document.

Specifically, this Policy applies directly to individuals who have been officially appointed as Designated Agency Representatives (DARs), who have been authorized, in accordance with agency regulations and policies, to place orders for telecommunications services under a Networx contract. The Networx contracts specify that the vendor may only accept orders from authorized personnel. In addition, these guidelines apply to the agency’s appointing authority and the agency’s DAR Administrator.

5. Policy

This Networx DAR Policy establishes and outlines requirements related to the acquisition, management, use, and disposition of telecommunications resources within the Department of Health and Human Service. This Policy applies to all operating divisions of the Department of HHS, including the Office of the Secretary, and including contractors who are authorized to use HHS resources. The Policy provides fundamental requirements and is an important resource for all HHS Designated Agency Representatives (DARs); establishes and defines Fair Opportunity decision methods; and award methodology and criteria for documenting selection analysis. The Policy identifies the available telecommunication service types and ordering guidelines applicable under the Networx—Universal and Enterprise—contracts.

6. Fair Opportunity

This section describes the Fair Opportunity process and identifies, as a reference to the DARs, the methods and criteria necessary for the Department to arrive at an award decision for the Networx contract.

The HHS CIO Council agreed to a OneHHS Fair Opportunity strategy:

  • All OPDIVs will order from a single voice or data contract
  • In exchange for the consideration of one contract award the vendor will agree to provide usage and/or quantity discounts
  • The usage and quantity levels in which orders will be placed is the sum of the OPDIVs requirements
  • Award is made on a best value basis

HHS will conduct Fair Opportunity utilizing the Networx Universal contract.

HHS will perform Fair Opportunity by evaluating vendor’s Networx:

  • Contract technical and management sections
  • Answers and responses to HHS-specific questions and information requirements
  • Pricing proposals.

The HHS Fair Opportunity voice and data solicitations require pricing on an Individual Case Basis (ICB). The voice solicitation, in particular, includes ICB requirements that can be definitized only with the awardee. Once definitized, GSA will accordingly modify the awardee’s Networx contract. Consequently, ICB Contract Line Item Numbers (CLINs) will not be available for order immediately after award. HHS Fair Opportunity will conclude with an identification of CLINs for award and their prices.

DARs will be authorized to order only from the CLINs awarded by HHS to the Networx vendors. Agencies requiring CLINs not on the HHS-awarded Networx contracts must request the HHS Networx Program Management Office (PMO) to have them placed on the vendor’s Networx contract. The HHS Networx PMO, in conjunction with the HHS Networx Contracting Officer, will either obtain addition by negotiation or by performing another Fair Opportunity, or authorize acquisition with an exception to Fair Opportunity.

6.1. Exceptions to Fair Opportunity

The DAR may issue service orders without the fair opportunity process whenever circumstances warrant the exercise of any exception set forth in FAR 16.505(b)(2). In the event that any of the exceptions to fair opportunity are employed, the rationale must be thoroughly documented. If the logical follow-on exception is used, the rationale shall describe why the relationship between the initial order and the follow-on is logical (e.g., in terms of scope, period of performance, or value). In accordance with FAR 16.505(b)(2), fair opportunity does not apply to orders that are under $3,000, although to the extent practicable, such micro-purchases shall be distributed equitably among qualified suppliers. Fair opportunity also does not apply to service orders above $3,000 where the Contracting Officer determines that:

  • The need for the equipment or services ordered is of such unusual urgency that providing such opportunity to all vendors would result in unacceptable delays in fulfilling that need;
  • Only one vendor is capable of providing the equipment or services required at the level of quality required because the equipment or services ordered are unique or highly-specialized;
  • The delivery or task order should be issued on a sole-source basis in the interest of economy and efficiency because it is a logical follow-on to an order already issued on a competitive basis; or
  • It is necessary to place the order with a particular vendor to satisfy a minimum revenue guarantee.

For additional compliance information or procedural questions, please contact your Networx contracting officer for guidance.

6.2. Service Types

The information contained in the below diagrams are as of Universal contract award and are subject to change. Hyperlinks to each of these files are also provided at the end of this section. For more information, please contact the OPDIVs GSA FAS Technology Service Manager (TSM).

6.2.1. Networx – Universal Services: Awarded March 29, 2007

6.2.1.1. Telecommunications Services (Mandatory Services)
Communications Transport
  • Voice
  • Circuit Switched Data
  • Toll-Free
  • Combined
  • Private Line
  • Frame Relay
  • Asynchronous Transfer Mode
IP-Based
  • Premises-Based IP VPN
  • Network-Based IP VPN
  • Voice over IP Transport
  • Content Delivery Network
  • Converged IP
  • IP Telephony
  • Internet Protocol
Optical
  • Synchronous Optical Network
  • Optical Wavelength
6.2.1.2. Wireless Services
  • Cellular/PCS
  • Multimode Wireless
6.2.1.3. Management & Application Services (Mandatory Services)
  • Video Teleconferencing
  • Managed Network
  • Audio Conferencing
  • Teleworking Solutions
  • Call Center/Customer
  • Contact Center
  • Web Conferencing
  • Dedicated Hosting
  • Collocated Hosting
  • Storage
  • Customer Specific Design and Engineering
6.2.1.4. Security Services (Mandatory Services)
  • Managed Firewall
  • Intrusion Detection and
  • Prevention
  • Managed E-Authentication
  • Vulnerability Scanning
  • Anti-Virus Management
  • Incident Response
  • Secure Managed Email
  • Managed Tiered Security
6.2.1.5. Telecommunications Services (Optional Services)
  • Communications Transport
  • Ethernet IP-Based
  • IP Video Transport
  • Layer 2 VPN Optical
  • Dark Fiber
6.2.1.6. Management & Application Services (Optional Services)
  • Unified Messaging
  • Collaboration Support
  • Internet Facsimile
6.2.1.7. Special Services (Optional Services)
  • Land Mobile Radio
  • Mobile Satellite
  • Fixed Satellite
6.2.1.8. Special Services (Optional Services)
  • Cellular Digital Packet Data
  • Paging
Universal Optional Service AT&T Qwest Verizon
Collaboration Support ✓ - ✓
Dark Fiber ✓ ✓ -
Ethernet ✓ ✓ -
Fixed Satellite ✓ - ✓
IP Video Transport - - ✓
Layer 2 VPN ✓ ✓ -
Land Mobile Radio ✓ - ✓
Mobile Satellite ✓ - -
Paging - - ✓
Unified Messaging ✓ - -

GSA Universal Services

7. Roles and Responsibilities

For this effort, HHS will utilize a role-based structure with each role having specific responsibilities, authority, and/or oversight. The role-based structure ensures that Department-, Division-, and Service-level DAR responsibilities are clearly defined and focused. Adherence to the role-based structure will help ensure a successful transition.

The HHS DAR roles are as follows:

  • DAR Authority - Will issue fair opportunity solicitations to all vendors and is the primary contractual interface with all Networx contractors and GSA representatives. Provides formal appointment for HHS DAR Administrator’s and OPDIV DARs
  • CIO/or official designated or empowered by the CIO –Nominates DAR Administrators
  • HHS DAR Administrator- Has the policy and organizational oversight responsibilities. Coordinates appointment of DAR’s with the Contractor and assignment of Administrative rights
  • OPDIV DAR Administrator –Nominates DAR’s in his/her OPDIV and defines OPDIV DAR oversight responsibilities
  • OPDIV DAR – Has division-level service ordering authority

Service DAR – Has service-level ordering authority within the OPDIV.

Combined with DAR procedures, the role-based structure has inherent checks and balances to ensure that DAR processes are adhered to, and that service orders are compliant with regulatory and policy requirements.

7.1. DAR Authority

The DAR Authority is the Networx Contracting Officers (CO) and serves as the primary contractual interface with all Networx vendors, service providers, and GSA representatives. As required, the HHS CO shall issue fair opportunity solicitations to all vendors to petition for offers of telecommunication services. A fair opportunity solicitation will only be issued when new agency requirements are identified that are not currently covered under the Universal or Enterprise contracts. The HHS CO will receive and evaluate Networx vendor proposals, make “best value” decisions, and award contracts. Following contractual negotiations, the GSA Contracting Officer (GSA CO) will modify or create associated CLINs as necessary for DAR service ordering. The CO is the representative that provides formal appointment for all DAR Administrators and DARs.

The HHS Contracting Officer responsibilities include:

  • Negotiating directly with the Networx vendors
  • Documenting Fair Opportunity selection process
  • Define required training for DAR Administrators & DAR’s
  • Provide final approval on HHS DAR Admin & DAR appointments

7.2. CIO/or Official Empowered or Designated by the CIO

The CIO or official designated by the CIO is a Department representative who has been empowered to nominate DARs, including DAR Administrators. The DAR Authority reviews all nominees for compliance with eligibility. No single, specific classification series or grade level is required for DAR responsibility. It is left to the discretion of each OPDIV to appoint the DARs based upon that OPDIVs own requirements and the technical expertise deemed necessary to fulfill the OPDIVs needs.

All DARs must be nominated in writing by the CIO or official empowered or designated by the CIO, in accordance with the Department Policy Appointments shall be in writing and the appointment letter for each DAR must be addressed to the HHS DAR Administrator. The appointment letter shall specify: the OPDIV name; the name of the OPDIV DAR Administrator; the DAR’s names; phone numbers and email addresses; the Networx contracts under which each DAR is authorized to place orders; agency hierarchy codes for which each DAR is authorized to place orders; and, any restriction of the type, dollar value, geographic location or other limitations placed on the DAR by the Department.

During the application process, the CIO or official empowered or designated by the CIO must ensure all candidates for DAR selection have received the appropriate level of training and have a sufficient level of experience.

7.3. HHS DAR Administrator

As with all appointed representatives, the HHS DAR Administrator must be an employee of a Federal government agency, and cannot be a contractor. The HHS DAR Administrator is the only individual, with the exception of the DAR Authority, authorized to interface with the Networx Contractors and to establish Administrative rights, register hierarchy codes and provide DAR appointments.

  • The HHS DAR Administrator responsibilities include:
  • Compile, track, disseminate, and maintain an up-to-date listings of DARs and their ordering authority
  • Provide listings and any updates to the vendor and to GSA
  • Maintain an updated listing of all OPDIV hierarchy codes, registering all codes with the Networx Contractor
  • Provide training to DARs on the ordering procedures and their authorities and limitations
  • Termination of DAR rights as necessary
  • Ensure all Records Management activities are completed in accordance with the General Records Schedules. Of particular importance are the Networx Long Distance (LD) orders and FTS2001 disconnect orders placed by the HHS-appointed GSA FAS ITS Billing Systems Manager DAR.

Based upon an agency’s structure, there may be an Alternate HHS DAR Administrator. The HHS DAR Administrator alternates perform the same duties as DAR Administrators on an as-needed basis.

The HHS DAR Administrator maintains a consolidated listing of all OPDIV DAR Administrators, and DARs authorized to place orders on Networx contracts, the hierarchy code(s) against which they can order, types of service(s), dollar limits, and any other limits placed on their ordering authority. The HHS DAR Administrator will specify to the Networx vendor (in writing) the authority granted to each DAR and provide the vendor any changes to that authority.

The HHS DAR Administrator registers all Agency Hierarchy Codes for all OPDIVs Networx Contractors.

The HHS DAR Administrators will facilitate the necessary instruction or training to the OPDIV DAR Administrators and DARs to (1) ensure that DARs are fully aware of the Agency’s requirements and those limitations placed upon their ordering authority and (2) understand the ordering procedures specific to the contracts for which DAR authority has been provided them.

The HHS DAR Administrator must be appointed in writing by the agency appointing authority, in accordance with agency regulations and policies. The appointment letter for each HHS DAR Administrator must be addressed to the selected Networx vendor with a copy to the GSA Program Management Office (PMO). The appointment letter shall specify the HHS DAR Administrator’s name, phone number and email address, the same information for any Alternate DAR Administrator(s), the agency hierarchy codes for which the HHS DAR Administrator is authorized to appoint DARs, the Agency and Bureau name for whom the HHS DAR Administrator has authority, and the Networx vendor to whom the Agency sent the appointment notification.

The appointment of the GSA FAS ITS Billing Systems Manager as an HHS DAR will be made by the HHS DAR Administrator.

7.4. OPDIV DAR Administrator

The OPDIV DAR Administrator must be an employee of a Federal government agency, and cannot be a contractor. Networx vendors can prepare (draft) service orders for the approval and a disposition by a DAR. However, DARs must be Federal government employees. OPDIV DAR Administrators must be appointed in writing by the HHS DAR Administrator and approved by the DAR Authority, and given specific oversight responsibilities and limitations as the administrator. OPDIV DAR Administrators may also be appointed to function in dual roles as a DAR.

The OPDIV DAR Administrator responsibilities include:

  • Coordinate DAR Nominations through the HHS DAR Administrator
  • Compile, track, disseminate, and maintain an up-to-date listings of DARs, their contact information and their ordering authority
  • Provide listings and any updates to the HHS DAR Administrator
  • Establish and maintain agency hierarchy codes, and/or oversee responsibility for them
  • Provide instructions to DARs on the ordering procedures and their authorities and limitations
  • Ensure all Records Management activities are completed in accordance with the General Records Schedules. Of particular importance are the Networx LD orders and FTS2001 disconnect orders placed by the HHS-appointed GSA FAS ITS Billing Systems Manager DAR
  • Participate in DAR Working group meetings.

Based upon an agency’s structure, there may be more than one OPDIV DAR Administrator. The OPDIV DAR Administrator alternates perform the same duties as DAR Administrators on an as-needed basis.

The OPDIV DAR Administrator maintains a list of DARs authorized to place orders on Networx contracts, the hierarchy code(s) and will coordinate any Add/Change/Remove requests through the HHS DAR Administrator.

The OPDIV DAR Administrators provide necessary instruction or training to DARs to (1) ensure that DARs are fully aware of the Agency’s requirements and those limitations placed upon their ordering authority and (2) understand the ordering procedures specific to the contracts for which DAR authority has been provided them.

The OPDIV DAR Administrator must be appointed in writing by the agency appointing authority, in accordance with and this HHS Policy. Appointments shall be in writing and the appointment letter for each OPDIV DAR Administrator must be addressed to the HHS DAR Administrator with a copy to the Contracting Officer (CO). The appointment letter shall specify the OPDIV DAR Administrator’s name, phone number and email address, the same information for any Alternate OPDIV DAR Administrator(s), the agency hierarchy codes for which the OPDIV DAR Administrator is authorized to appoint DARs, the Agency and Bureau name for whom the OPDIV DAR Administrator has authority, and the Networx vendor to whom the Agency sent the appointment notification.

7.5. OPDIV DAR

Agencies have authority to designate individuals who are authorized to place orders under Networx contracts for their agency, consistent with the Fair Opportunity Decision made by the Agency Contracting Officer. The Networx contracts refer to these individuals as Designated Agency Representatives (DARs). HHS has elected to further classify DARs as being OPDIV- or Service-DARs, with each having a specific role and responsibility within the organization.

The OPDIV DAR is responsible for:

  • Performing in accordance with the terms and conditions of the contract
  • Adhering to any rules, regulations, and conditions promulgated and enforced by their agency
  • Complying with any limitations/authorities specified in the DAR appointment document.

At the Department of HHS, each operating division will have an OPDIV DAR and perhaps an alternate designee. An OPDIV DAR is nominated in writing by the OPDIV DAR Administrator and appointed by the DAR Authority in accordance with this HHS Policy, and in consideration of necessary training, skills, and technical expertise. OPDIV DARs are authorized to place telecommunication service orders on behalf of their operating division only, unless otherwise authorized in the appointment document.

The OPDIV DAR responsibilities include:

  • Prepare, submit, and track orders with vendors and the GSA FAS ITS Billing Systems Manager consistent with the contracting officers’ fair opportunity decision
  • Other functions specified in appointment document

The OPDIV DAR must issue orders in accordance with:

  • The fair opportunities decision
  • Terms and conditions of the contract
  • Rules, regulations, and policies of their agency
  • Limitations/authorities specified in the appointment document

7.6. Service DAR

Within each operating division, Service DARs may be appointed to place telecommunication services orders on behalf of the OPDIV. Unlike OPDIV DARs, Service DARs are individuals within the OPDIV who are authorized to place telecommunication service orders for specific services only. Service DARs must meet the same training and experience criteria as other DARs. Operating divisions may have multiple Service DARs with finite service ordering authority. A Service DAR is nominated in writing by the OPDIV DAR Administrator and appointed by the DAR Authority in accordance with this HHS Policy, and in consideration of necessary training, skills, and technical expertise.

The Service DAR responsibilities include:

  • Prepare, submit, and track orders consistent with the contracting officers’ fair opportunity decision
  • Other functions specified in appointment document

The Service DAR must issue orders in accordance with:

  • The fair opportunities decision
  • Terms and conditions of the contract
  • Rules, regulations, and policies of their agency
  • Limitations/authorities specified in the appointment document such as placing LD orders with the HHS-authorized GSA FAS ITS Billing Systems Manager

Once certified, Service DARs are authorized to place telecommunication service orders directly with the Networx vendors – no further coordination or approval is required for pre-defined and fully-priced Contract Line Item Numbers (CLINs) within their authority.

7.7. GSA FAS ITS Billing Systems Manager as an HHS DAR

GSA currently provides local and long distance services to HHS OPDIVs throughout the country. GSA Networx Contracting Officers have determined if an Agency wants GSA to continue ordering long distance services on the Agency’s behalf, the Agency DAR Administrator must appoint the GSA FAS ITS Billing Systems Manager, as a DAR for the Agency with authority to order Voice Service for the Agency Hierarchy Codes (AHC) designated by the Agency. HHS will comply with this requirement.

HHS OPDIV DARs will place orders for Networx LD services with the GSA DAS ITS Billing Systems Manager designated by the HHS DAR Administrator. The GSA Billing Systems Manager responsibilities include:

  • Accepting LD orders from OPDIVs DARs in accordance with the OPDIV DAR’s authorization by service and/or AHC.
  • Configuring the vendor’s Networx Operational Support System (OSS) to send a copy of the Service Order Completion Notice (SOCN) to the address designated by the OPDIV DAR.
  • Placing on behalf of the OPDIV FTS2001 DAR the FTS2001 disconnect orders and ordering the FTS2001 vendor to copy the FTS2001 disconnection SOCN to the address designated by the OPDIV DAR.

7.8. DAR Working Group

The DAR Working Group (DWG) is an integrated team of project representatives who regularly meet to review, discuss and issue DAR policies and procedures. The team is comprised of members from each operating division, as well as contracting officers, subject matter experts, and other interested parties. It is likely the Networx PMO will task the DWG to provide advice regarding Fair Opportunity strategy for services not awarded by HHS.

7.8.1. DAR Training

It is the responsibility of each agency to ensure that each DAR has completed appropriate training, and has the necessary skills and technical expertise to carry out the duties assigned.

To be eligible for appointment, the required HHS training includes:

  • HHS University course “Project Officer Training”
  • Networx Vendor provided training (as necessary)

Applicable Laws/Guidance

  • Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) Subpart 16.5.
  • Reference GSA guidelines regarding Networx contacts, policies, and procedures.
  • GSA DAR Guidelines for Network Services Contracts of the Office of ITS FAA, August 28, 2008

8. Information and Assistance

Direct questions, comments, suggestions, or requests for further information to the Office of the Chief Information Officer (OCIO), at (202) 690-6162; or visit our web site at URL: OCIO Policies List

9. Effective Date/Implementation

The effective date of this Policy is the date the Policy is approved.

Requirements stated in this Policy are consistent with law, regulations and other Department policies applicable at the time of its issuance. Actions taken through the implementation of this Policy must comply with the requirements of pertinent laws, rules and regulations, as well as the lawful provisions of applicable negotiated agreements for employees in exclusive bargaining units.

The HHS policies contained in this issuance shall be exercised in accordance with Public Law 93-638, the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act, as amended, and the Secretary's policy statement dated August 7, 1997, as amended, titled "Department Policy on Consultation with American Indian/Alaska Native Tribes and Indian Organizations." It is HHS' policy to consult with Indian people to the greatest practicable extent and to the extent permitted by law before taking actions that affect these governments and people; to assess the impact of the Department's plans, projects, programs and activities on tribal and other available

resources; and to remove any procedural impediments to working directly with tribal governments or Indian people.

10. Approved

/s/ John Teeter for
Michael W. Carleton
Deputy Assistant Secretary for Information Technology/HHS Chief Information Officer

June 10, 2010
Date

Glossary

Contracting Officers (CO) – serve as the primary contractual interface with all Networx vendors, service providers, and GSA representatives.

Designated Agency Representative (DAR) – individuals who are authorized to place orders under Network Services contracts for their agency, consistent with the Fair Opportunity Decision made by the Agency Contracting Officer. Individuals may be designated as OPDIV DAR Coordinators or Service DARs.

DAR Authority – a Department representative who reviews all DAR nominees for compliance with eligibility and has been empowered to appoint DARs, including DAR Administrators.

DAR Administrator – an employee of a Federal Government agency (not a contractor) who compiles, tracks, disseminates, and maintains an up-to-date listing of all DARs and their ordering authority specific to their agency.

DAR Working Group – an integrated team of project representatives who regularly meet to review, discuss and issue DAR policies and procedures.

Guidelines – a documented statement of desired, good, or best practice that serves as a recommendation that leads or directs a course of action to achieve a certain goal. Guidelines provide instructions and advice for performing a task and suggest possible approaches that may be taken. Guidelines are generally voluntary, but the implication is that practitioners will use the concepts and principles in meeting their objectives.

HHS Information Technology (IT) Resources – includes but is not limited to: staff, facilities, data, documents, personal computers and related peripheral equipment, software, network and web servers, telephones, facsimile machines, photocopiers, Internet connectivity and access to internet services, e-mail and, office supplies.

Information Technology (IT) – any equipment or interconnected system or subsystem of equipment that is used in the automatic acquisition, storage, manipulation, management, movement, control, display, switching, interchange, transmission, or reception of data.

Integrated Project Team (IPT) – cross-functional team of employees, contractors, interns, etc., that is temporarily established to share information and to produce a product or product(s)/deliverable(s) that reflects that focused collaboration, coordination and communication.

Policy – a document predicated on oversight (Congressional mandates; legislation; Office of Management & Budget (OMB); Government Accountability Office (GAO); General Services Administration (GSA); National Archives Records Administration (NARA); etc.-this is not an all-inclusive list) requirements or Department/Agency authority that describes the “what”, the “when” and in most instances the “by whom” certain actions must be taken in order to move an organization into compliance. Policy requires a certain level of measurement to determine where the organization is and how far from the end-state goal/requirement one is starting. Policy describes the specific tasks that need to be accomplished, much like a work breakdown structure, without stating “how” those tasks will be accomplished.

Procedures – a document that explains “how” policy shall be achieved by describing the specifics of the tasks, the steps needed to be taken to achieve the goal, to satisfy the end state requirement.

Subject Matter Expert (SME) – a person or persons in a functional area who presents content material regarding the policy subject area.

ATTACHMENT 1: NETWORX INFORMATION

Contract Numbers

AT&T—Enterprise, GS00T07NSD0041

AT&T—Universal, GS00T07NSD0007

Level 3 Communications—Enterprise, GS00T07NSD0037

MCI /Verizon—Enterprise, GS00T07NSD0038

MCI/Verizon –Universal, GS00T07NSD0008

Qwest—Enterprise, GS00T07NSD0040

Qwest—Universal, GS00T07NSD0002

Sprint—Enterprise, GS00T07NSD0039

Note: HHS plans to award both Voice and Data as Universal contracts.

Points of Contact

Below lists contact information for obtaining assistance with service ordering or usage. For the most expeditious and accurate assistance, you are encouraged to contact the NxPMO Help Desk first. The staff at the Help Desk can place you in quick and direct contact with those who are best equipped to resolve your questions or issues.

HHS Contracting Officer, Clint Druk ([email protected])

HHS DAR Administrator, Gary W. Wall ([email protected],v) Fax: 202-260-8715

HHS Alternate DAR Administrator, Ty Owens ([email protected]), Fax: 202-260-8715

HHS Networx Help Desk, 1-877-WER-NTWX, OSNetworx [email protected]

After award, Networx vendors will appoint representatives to assist DARs

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Content last reviewed