CIO Message
August 17, 2012
Open Standard Protocols for VA Networks
Today, I signed a memo codifying the decision to migrate from proprietary protocols to open standard protocols on VA’s data networks. This decision ensures that as data is transmitted throughout the VA network, it is done so in a way that enables participation from any vendor. Migrating to open standard protocols supports cost containment strategies, and will increase VA’s flexibility and ability to interoperate with multiple vendors. Leaders in new technologies are constantly changing – improved interoperability, innovation and open competition will enable rapid advances in network infrastructure capabilities at the lowest possible costs.
Open standard protocols will replace existing proprietary protocols wherever an open standard exists. A project will be initiated to evaluate VA’s networking protocols and to identify protocols that should be migrated to an open standard. These protocols will then become the official VA standard and the necessary design and configuration documents will be updated. An implementation plan and schedule will be published for migration to the new enterprise standards.
In light of the move to open network standards, I will not approve any future Justification and Approval (J&A) documents for procurement of networking equipment. Only in cases where a feature is required and an open standard protocol does not exist will a proprietary protocol be considered. In those rare situations, the requirement must be justified and validated via waiver by the Executive Director of Enterprise Systems Engineering. The best proprietary protocol will become the interim standard only until an open standard is ratified. Any implementation of a proprietary protocol will be limited to the absolute minimum possible scope in the environment.
VA will continue to make decisions that increase our flexibility and the use of competition and innovation to provide effective solutions at the lowest possible costs. Your feedback is essential to the development of best practices, so if you have any questions, you may contact Franco Susi, at franco.susi@va.gov.
Roger W. Baker
Assistant Secretary for Information and Technology Department of Veterans Affairs
VA Core Values: Integrity Commitment Advocacy Respect Excellence
VA Core Characteristics: Trustworthy | Accessible | Quality | Innovative | Agile | Integrated
