What is CenTAM?

Census Bureau Transformation and Application Modernization (CenTAM) solicitation is the Census Bureau’s strategy to overhaul its systems by leveraging secure cloud applications and cutting-edge data science. This multiple-award Blanket Purchase Agreement (BPA) will provide a range of services, including application modernization, cloud migration, and advanced data science, with a projected period of performance of up to ten years. The initiative focuses on enabling secure design, operations, and management of applications to enhance the reliability and efficiency of Census Bureau processes. Read the CenTAM solicitation profile on this page.

Key Objectives of CenTAM Solicitation

  1. Enterprise-Wide Cloud Integration: Transitioning Census Bureau systems to secure, scalable cloud environments to support data integrity and disaster recovery.
  2. Application Modernization: Redesigning legacy applications with a focus on advanced architectures, secure DevSecOps practices, and performance optimization.
  3. Advanced Data Science: Integrating AI and machine learning technologies to enhance decision-making, improve data quality, and support predictive analytics.
  4. Comprehensive Systems Engineering: Establishing robust engineering frameworks to manage the complexity of a system-of-systems architecture.

Challenges Driving CenTAM

The Census Bureau’s modernization efforts stem from key challenges:

  • Evolving Technology Needs: Rapid technological advancements necessitate a shift to secure cloud solutions and scalable systems.
  • Data Volume and Complexity: Managing billions of records across 100+ applications requires innovative approaches to data processing and governance.
  • Operational Efficiency: Streamlining processes to reduce redundancies and minimize costs is critical to achieving a successful census.

CenTAM solicitation addresses these challenges with a future-focused strategy that emphasizes security, scalability, and innovation.

Service Areas and Scope

The CenTAM solicitation encompasses a broad range of services, including:

  • Contract and Project Management: Ensuring effective collaboration between contractors and adherence to project timelines.
  • Cloud-Native Engineering: Developing and maintaining applications that operate seamlessly in a multi-cloud environment.
  • Data Science Integration: Employing advanced analytics and machine learning to drive data-driven insights.
  • Application Security: Adopting Zero Trust principles to safeguard sensitive Census Bureau data.
  • Systems Engineering: Managing complex architectures to ensure interoperability and performance across systems.

Eligibility and Evaluation Criteria for CenTAM Solicitation

Eligibility Requirements

To participate in the CenTAM solicitation, contractors must demonstrate expertise in cloud-native development, data science, and systems engineering. While no specific security clearance is required, all personnel must pass the Census Bureau’s background investigation for non-sensitive public trust clearance. Additionally, all work must be performed on government-furnished equipment within the United States.

Evaluation Criteria

The Census Bureau’s evaluation process is designed to identify contractors that can deliver the best value while adhering to strict technical and security standards. Key evaluation factors include:

  1. Technical Expertise
    • Proposals must showcase capabilities in advanced data science, cloud engineering, and scalable system architectures.
    • Emphasis is placed on innovation and the ability to implement SAFe (Scaled Agile Framework) methodologies.
  2. Past Performance
    • Demonstrated success in managing large-scale IT transformation projects, including application modernization and data integration.
    • Experience working with federal agencies or comparable organizations is highly valued.
  3. Project Management
    • Contractors must exhibit proficiency in managing large teams (50-200 FTEs) and coordinating multiple subcontractors.
    • Effective communication and stakeholder engagement strategies are critical.
  4. Cost Efficiency
    • Proposals must offer competitive pricing while maintaining high standards of quality and performance.
  5. Security and Compliance
    • Strict adherence to federal security protocols, including NIST guidelines and Zero Trust principles, is mandatory.
    • Contractors must demonstrate robust mechanisms for protecting sensitive data throughout the project lifecycle.

Modernizing Census Bureau Operations with Cloud and AI

CenTAM solicitation prioritizes cloud migration and AI integration to support the Census Bureau’s mission. Key benefits include:

  • Enhanced Data Processing: Real-time analysis and near-instantaneous data quality checks improve accuracy and efficiency.
  • Improved Scalability: Cloud environments provide the flexibility to scale resources based on demand, ensuring robust performance during peak census operations.
  • Predictive Analytics: Machine learning models enable proactive decision-making and risk mitigation.

Compliance and Security

The CenTAM initiative places a strong emphasis on compliance and security. Key measures include:

  • Adherence to Federal Standards: Compliance with FedRAMP and NIST Cybersecurity Framework ensures data protection and system reliability.
  • Zero Trust Architecture: Security frameworks are designed to mitigate threats by enforcing stringent access controls and continuous monitoring.
  • Accessibility: Applications are developed to meet Section 508 standards, ensuring usability for all stakeholders.

Why CenTAM Solicitation Matters

CenTAM solicitation is a cornerstone of the Census Bureau’s strategy to modernize its operations and improve data quality. By addressing critical pain points and adopting cutting-edge technologies, this initiative will:

  • Enhance the Census Bureau’s ability to deliver timely and accurate statistics.
  • Optimize resource allocation and operational workflows.
  • Strengthen the Bureau’s role as the nation’s leading source of demographic and economic data.

Partnering for Success

Contractors awarded under CenTAM solicitation will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the Census Bureau. Success in this initiative requires:

  • A commitment to innovation and excellence in IT transformation.
  • The ability to collaborate effectively with government stakeholders and subcontractors.
  • A focus on delivering secure, scalable, and high-performing solutions.

Conclusion

The Census Bureau Transformation and Application Modernization (CenTAM) initiative sets the stage for the Census Bureau’s digital transformation journey. By embracing secure cloud solutions, advanced data science, and innovative engineering practices, the Bureau aims to redefine how it collects, processes, and disseminates vital data.

For contractors, CenTAM solicitation offers a unique opportunity to contribute to one of the most significant modernization efforts in federal government history. Stay informed and prepare to participate in this groundbreaking initiative as the RFP release approaches in Q2 FY2025.