To accomplish its mission, the Center depends heavily on state-of- the-art information technology (IT), embracing computer systems ranging from laptop and desktop personal computers to supercomputers; network systems ranging from building-dedicated through Center-wide; data storage facilities ranging from diskettes to massive, centrally accessed tape storage systems; and all of the associated operating, input/output, data transfer, data management, and data analysis systems.

The Center has increasingly relied upon contractors to provide IT services. Prior to 2001, several IT related contracts were in place, including Scientific Computer Operations, Maintenance, and Communications (SCOMAC) Services; Computer Analysis and Programming Services (CAPS); and Business and Administrative Management Information Services (BAMIS).

It has been and is the intent of the Center to consolidate IT activities. A major step in that direction is the Consolidated Information Technology Services (CONITS) Task Order, which consolidates most of the functions of SCOMAC, CAPS, and BAMIS that are not covered by a second consolidating contract, the Outsourcing Desktop Initiative for NASA (ODIN). ODIN provides for the provision of desktop computing, networking, and telecommunications capability at the Center

The CONITS Task Order provides computing support services (including system administration and hardware and software maintenance) for systems that are either uniquely configured or highly specialized in function. The CONITS services typically involve a wide range of support functions including those for non-standard operating systems, system interfaces, or for use within a dynamic environment such as a research laboratory or test facility. The CONITS Task Order provides system administration as a component of integrated support. Integrated support encompasses all activities necessary to develop, deploy, upgrade, operate, and maintain a production system which delivers an IT capability.