Let The Networx Begin

First was the long wait. Then came then announcement this spring of the largest telecom deal in history. Now comes the money.

In case you missed it, the giant Networx Universal contract will kick alive this fall, when the Department of Homeland Security begins accepting proposals for its OneNet system for sensitive but unclassified communication.

The OneNet order, described in a Washington Technology story, will enable DHS to build its own intranet. The department expects to use the giant Networx contract -- an open-ended arrangement managed by the General Services Administration -- to buy advice, services, hardware and a lot more.

Eventually, OneNet could include everything from Internet phone service to video conferencing and video surveillance. Proposals are due early next month. Work could be awarded next spring.

It's undoubtedly an exciting prospect for AT&T, Qwest Communications International and Verizon -- the companies that won the right to bid for Networx jobs.

For DHS it will be another test of the agency's ability to oversee a complex technology project, something it has struggled to do in the past.

By Robert O'Harrow |  September 5, 2007; 6:26 AM ET networx
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