Cooperative Observer Program (COOP) Network Modernization & Management Paradigm Analysis

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is conducting market research to determine the capabilities and commerciality of the market for the modernization and management of the Cooperative Observer Program (COOP) network. The COOP network is a climate and weather monitoring network that relies on volunteer observers and manual weather stations. The NOAA is exploring three management paradigms: Government-Owned, Government-Operated (GO-GO), Government-Owned, Contractor-Operated (GO-CO), and Contractor-Owned, Contractor-Operated (CO-CO) or "Data-as-a-Service" (DaaS). The market research will help the NOAA define its acquisition strategy for the wholesale modernization, technology refresh, and operational support of the COOP network. • The COOP network has approximately 6,700 highly distributed surface observation sites across the United States. • The NOAA is evaluating the feasibility, cost-effectiveness, and data continuity risks associated with blending the three management paradigms. • The market research is targeting qualified small business concerns, including 8(a), HUBZone, Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Businesses, and Women-Owned Small Businesses. • The NOAA is seeking information on commercially available all-in-one weather stations, installation and maintenance services, and data-as-a-service solutions. • The market research will assist the NOAA in defining its acquisition strategy and structuring its contract line items and performance metrics.