DIR Requests Offers for New Managed Security Services Solution

The Department of Information Resources (DIR) has issued a request for offers (RFO) from vendors to transition the agency from its current Managed Security Services (MSS) solution to a new solution and model.

The agency released a pre-solicitation notice for an MSS request in September 2023.

As the Shared Technology Services (STS) MSS Service Component Provider (SCP), the chosen respondent will provide a solution that can be customized and improved upon for the duration of their contract with DIR to address evolving cybersecurity threats.

The requested MSS Services will be integrated into DIR’s Shared Technology Services program to be marketed to DIR customers.

The successful respondent will be required to assist DIR customers in the following capacities:

• Maintaining and deploying security tools, and monitoring and managing overall security
• Meeting state and federal legal and regulatory requirements
• Assessing, managing and mitigating risks
• Meeting state, federal or industry compliance requirements and regulations

DIR has requested all services incorporate artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning and any technological evolutions to address new and unanticipated cybersecurity threats while transitioning seamlessly to ensure service stability.

In addition to MSS, the request includes a variety of services including security operations center, Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR), managed firewall, dark web intelligence, post security incident recovery, penetration testing and System Security Plan (SSP) development.

More detailed information about RFO No. DIR-CPO-STS-581, including all submission requirements and requests, can be found online. A virtual pre-proposal solicitation conference will be held on Thursday, Jan. 25, at 2 p.m. Question submissions are due Feb. 2 at 2 p.m. The deadline for proposals is 2 p.m. Feb. 16. Jimmy Smartt is the point of contact for this RFO.