I was hoping someone could offer me some advice/direction on Software Maintenance. If I am buying renewal maintenance on software already owned by the government, do I need to complete a J&A (or EFO/LSJ - pending on what contract vehicle I'm using) for the Brand Name requirement? I'm competing the requirement on CHESS (mandatory source) among numerous vendors who can supply the Brand Name Maintenance. I'm told that when software maintenance include bug-fixes, software updates, etc. then each push of that revised software is in essence an new contract and therefore requires a Brand Name J&A. Due to the review requirements associated with the J&A process, if this does require a J&A then in some instances (well under the SAT) I believe the GOV may be expending more funds acquiring the maintenance than the cost of the actual maintenance costs.
If someone could weigh in I would greatly appreciate it.
Thank you.