The General Services Administration is looking to gauge vendors' experience with 18 "leading edge technologies" (LETs), including big data, the Internet of things, artificial intelligence and predictive analytics.
Alliant II GWAC managers issued a request for information on Dec. 2 that includes a survey for large and small business. The survey asks vendors whether they have experience delivering on each technology, specifically as the prime contractor (not subcontractor).
GSA is not looking at untested or high-risk technologies — termed "bleeding edge technology" — but rather "highly sophisticated and cutting edge developments" already being implemented, according to the RFI.
In releasing the survey, the Alliant team is trying to determine the maturity level of each technology in the private sector and vendors' ability to deliver on potential contracts.
The RFI also notes that technologies might be added or removed from the list as GSA gathers more information.
Rundown of LETs:
■ Autonomic Computing — self-managing software based on the human nervous system
■ Big Data
■ Pervasive Computing — adding computing power to devices and appliances; see Internet of Things
■ 3D Printing Design and Implementation — including rapid prototyping, stereolithography, architectural modeling and additive manufacturing
■ Agile Software Development
■ Application Streaming/Virtualization — end users host just enough software to run the application while the bulk is streamed over a network
■ Artificial Intelligence
■ Augmented Reality — real-world images and videos overlayed with digital information
■ Bidirectional Health Information Exchange — data sharing between Veterans Health Administration and Department of Defense
■ Biometric Security
■ Extended Cybersecurity
■ Internet of Things — networking together of everything, including people and things
■ IT Virtualization — IT systems not restricted to a single piece of computing hardware
■ Mobile Virtual Enterprise — allows for central control of linked mobile devices and gives users additional security options
■ Predictive Analytics — using data to identify trends and future outcomes
■ Robotics
■ Semi-structured Data Management and/or Synthesis
■ Smart Building Technologies, Design and Implementation
Aaron Boyd is an awarding-winning journalist currently serving as editor of Federal Times — a Washington, D.C. institution covering federal workforce and contracting for more than 50 years — and Fifth Domain — a news and information hub focused on cybersecurity and cyberwar from a civilian, military and international perspective.
