Streamlining Software Deployment

The Software as a Service (SaaS) and Platform as a Service (PaaS) Factories are critical components of VA’s Software Factory Model (SWF), serving as primary choices for streamlined software delivery.

Play Decisions

Commodity, Customized Commodity, or Highly Differentiated

  • Faster Product Delivery: Utilizing pre-existing solutions
    not only speeds up the product delivery process but is
    also a more budget-friendly alternative compared to
    creating a new, unique solution.
  • Reduced Technical Debt: Relying on SaaS/PaaS
    solutions significantly decreases technical debt.
    Unlike custom solutions that mandate the retention of
    dedicated personnel with specialized programming
    abilities, the responsibility for SaaS/PaaS solutions
    rests with the vendor.
  • Low/No Code Solutions: SaaS solutions are
    immediately available for deployment without
    any requisite VA coding. On the other hand, PaaS
    incorporates pre-developed application components
    such as workflow management, directory services,
    security measures, and search functionality. This
    ensures swift adaptability and rollout.
  • Compliance and Data Safeguarding: PaaS and SaaS
    solutions meet the standards set by FedRAMP and
    possess VA Authority to Operate. These solutions
    guarantee data security, fortified infrastructure
    protection, and a comprehensive data recovery strategy.
  • Citizen Developer Program: With user-friendly
    low code/no code tools in PaaS solutions, VA staff,
    irrespective of their coding proficiency, are equipped to
    design applications. This initiative is a cornerstone of
    VA’s Citizen Developer Program.
  • Reusability of Resources: By repurposing ATOs,
    components, and products, we achieve rapid value
    delivery with reduced administrative steps.

Software as a Service (SaaS) Software Factory

SaaS & PaaS Resources

All links require PIV or CAG access. 

Platform as a Service (PaaS) Software Factory

The PaaS Software Factory is a key element in VA's Software Factory Model. It focuses on blending customization with efficiency, making it ideal for building specific, robust software applications while reducing technical debt. 

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Reduced Technical Debt

PaaS minimizes the need for specialized programming skills, significantly reducing technical debt.

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Efficient Customization

Offers the flexibility to tailor software to VA's unique needs while utilizing reliable platform services.

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Streamlined Development

Provides comprehensive tools and services for a more efficient software development process.

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Scalability and Flexibility

Enables easy scaling of applications to meet changing requirements, ensuring long-term efficiency.

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Collaborative Environment

Enhances teamwork by offering a shared platform with common tools and resources.

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Robust Security

Adheres to strict security and privacy standards, crucial for government services.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Where can I learn more about SaaS/PaaS and the Software Factory? 

Learn more about VA’s Software Factory Model by visiting the OIT Digital Transformation Portal - VA's Software Factory Model. View detailed information on the respective pages for the PaaS Software Factory and SaaS Software Factory. To learn more, you can also submit a Consultation Request from the DigitalVA Product Marketplace and select the option that best fits your interest. 

Do SaaS products have published Technical Roadmaps? Do SaaS products follow Product Line Management practices? 

There is a process map we follow to support SaaS/PaaS process and implementation. Each vendor can provide a roadmap if requested of their products. We do work through the Product Line Management (PLM) practices and SaaS has reached full maturity. 

For products that offer similar capabilities, how do you decide which SaaS platform should be used? 

We provide Analysis of Alternatives (AoA) to all customers, including those products that are already a part of the catalog. There is a matrix that is used to support the AoA and has defined criteria to help support the business decision. To add further support and review, there is a Gateway Decision that is completed by Digital Transformation Center (DTC) leadership to review the AoA, the matrix, and the decision being put forward by the business.   

Where can we find VA pre-approved software list? 

Visit the DigitalVA Product Marketplace. If you want to make a request, you can open a ticket with the DTC SaaS team. Once submitted, the Intake team will reach out to you to gather some additional information. 

What are the actual cycle times for PaaS and SaaS?   

For PaaS, it depends on the size of the scope and development time. The more complex, the longer the development cycle is going to be, but the range is between six and 18 months.

Timelines for SaaS:

  • Products that have both a FedRAMP Authority to Operate (ATO) and a VA ATO: approximately 4 – 16 weeks
  • Products that do not involve VA data and therefore do not require an ATO: approximately 12 – 18 weeks
  • Products where an agency outside VA has sponsored the FedRAMP ATO and require a VA ATO: approximately 1 – 1.5 years
  • Products that need VA sponsorship for their FedRAMP ATO and require a VA ATO: approximately 1.5 – 2 years