Compared_Solicitations_PSC_IDIQ_REV_6_and_8.docx

SECTION B - Supplies or Services/Prices

B.1. CONSIDERATION AND PAYMENT

This is an Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity contract that will be used to provide commercial or noncommercial services to client agencies of the Program Support Center.

Individual task orders may be awarded on a Cost Reimbursement (non-commercial only), Time and Materials, Labor Hours or Firm Fixed Price basis.

During the contract period, the Government shall place orders totaling a minimum of $1,000. This reflects the contract minimum for the entire period of performance, including any options. The contract maximum for the entire period of performance, including any options, shall be for the placement of orders totaling a maximum of $500,000,000. The funding for the minimum guarantee is not currently committed and that awards will only be made when and if funding for the minimum guarantee becomes available.

The costs/prices will be negotiated on a per task order basis using the rates established in this contract as explained in B.2 and B.3.

The Contractor will be reimbursed in accordance with pricing section of each task order for satisfactory performance of the work.

B.2 TASK ORDER LABOR RATES (Cost Reimbursement)

The Contractor shall not exceed the maximum, unloaded hourly direct labor rates for each category listed below.

Unloaded Rates

(dates to be indicated upon award) Base Period - Year 2 (dates to be indicated upon award) Base Period - Year 3 (dates to be indicated upon award) Base Period - Year 4 (dates to be indicated upon award) Base Period - Year 5 (dates to be indicated upon award)

Unloaded Rates

(dates to be indicated upon award) Option 1 - Year 7 (dates to be indicated upon award) Option 1 - Year 8 (dates to be indicated upon award) Option 1 - Year 9 (dates to be indicated upon award) Option 1 - Year 10 (dates to be indicated upon award)

NOTE:

In the case the Option is exercised, task orders whose period of performance extends beyond the base contract period of five years and the option period of five years, the Contractor shall use the rates in Option 1 - Year 10 as adjusted by the Employment Cost Index from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. http://www.bls.gov/news.release/eci.t04.htm

The rates specified above are ceiling rates for the prime contractor and shall not be exceeded. (these ceilings do not apply to subcontractors or consultants).

B.2.1 INDIRECT COSTS

Pursuant to the General Provisions of this contract, and FAR Clause 52.216-7, Allowable Cost and Payment (JUN 2011), the following provisional and ceiling rates are established:

Rate Base Used to Calculate

* For Contractors that have an approved Negotiated Indirect Cost Rate Agreement: The Contractor shall use the organization's current negotiated provisional indirect cost rates for billing purposes. The contractor shall provide the IDIQ CO with a copy of the contractor’s current NICRA and continue to do so throughout the life of the IDIQ contract.

For Contractors that do not have a Negotiated Indirect Cost Rate Agreement:

The Contractor shall submit an indirect cost rate proposal to their cognizant Federal agency within 90 days of contract award for the review and negotiation of provisional rates. The indirect cost rate proposal shall be submitted to the Contractor's cognizant Federal agency. If HHS is the cognizant Federal agency, the office responsible for the negotiation of indirect cost rates for HHS profit-making contractors is:

Director, Division of Financial Advisory Services, Office of Acquisition Management and Policy, National Institutes of Health, 6100 Building, Room 6B05, 6100 Executive Blvd MSC-7540, Bethesda, MD 20892-7540.

The cognizant Federal office responsible for the negotiation of indirect cost rates for nonprofit organizations where HHS has cognizance is:

Program Support Center (PSC), Division of Cost Allocation (DCA)

The PSC DCA is comprised of four field offices and a DCA Director's office. The contractor's specific DCA location is based on the location of the contractor. For example, if the contractor is located in Maryland, Virginia or DC, the Mid- Atlantic Field Office of the DCA located in Bethesda, Maryland would be the cognizant office. (Refer to the DHHS, PSC FMS website at https://rates/psc.gov, and click on Contact Information and Office Locations, for the specific office location to determine the office responsible for a specific contractor. A DCA point of contact for questions is Brian Caudill and he can be reached on 301-492-4857.

The Contractor shall submit its final indirect cost rate proposal to its cognizant Federal agency within 180 days of the completion of each Contractor fiscal year for the review and negotiation of final indirect cost rates. A proposal shall be submitted for each year the contractor has Government contracts. In the event the rates determined by the cognizant negotiated indirect cost official on the basis of actual allowable costs are less than the provisional and ceiling rates agreed to herein, then the lower rates as established by such cognizant official shall apply. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Contractor shall, in the case of an adjustment of the provisional rates, comply with the requirements of FAR 52.232-20 - Limitation of Cost.

B.2.2 Fee

The Contractor shall not exceed the following ceiling rates:

Fixed Fee Ceiling for Prime Contractor/Subcontractors (%)___

Fixed Fee Ceiling applied by Prime Contractor on Subcontracts (%)___

While ceiling rates are established, a fixed fee will be negotiated at the task order level.

B.3 TASK ORDER LABOR RATES (T&M, Labor Hour, FFP)

The Contractor shall not exceed the maximum, fully loaded hourly rates for each category listed below.

Fully Loaded Rates

(dates to be indicated upon award) Base Period - Year 2 (dates to be indicated upon award) Base Period - Year 3 (dates to be indicated upon award) Base Period - Year 4 (dates to be indicated upon award) Base Period - Year 5 (dates to be indicated upon award)

Fully Loaded Rates

(dates to be indicated upon award) Option 1 - Year 7 (dates to be indicated upon award) Option 1 - Year 8 (dates to be indicated upon award) Option 1 - Year 9 (dates to be indicated upon award) Option 1 - Year 10 (dates to be indicated upon award)

NOTE:

In the case the Option is exercised, task orders whose period of performance extends beyond the base contract period of five years and the option period of five years, the Contractor shall use the rates in Option 1 Year 10 as adjusted by the Employment Cost Index from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. http://www.bls.gov/news.release/eci.t04.htm

The rates specified above are ceiling rates for the prime contractor and shall not be exceeded. (these ceilings do not apply to subcontractors or consultants)

SECTION C - DESCRIPTIONS/SPECIFICATIONS/WORK STATEMENT

PROJECT TITLE: “PROGRAM SUPPORT CENTER ID/IQ TASK ORDER CONTRACTS”

C.1 PURPOSE OF THE CONTRACT

This is an Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity contract which sets forth the conditions and clauses under which future acquisitions between the parties shall be governed. This contract will be used as a means of providing service to the customers, (i.e. client agencies) of the PSC in an effort to help them achieve their individual agency missions in a timely manner.

C.2 BACKGROUND

The Program Support Center (PSC), a fee-for-service Government agency, is currently working to expand the services available to the Department and other agencies through the use of Indefinite-Delivery, Indefinite-Quantity (IDIQ) Contracts.

The PSC intends, through this procurement, to increase the number of Contractors and resources available to provide required services, and to enhance our ability to produce quickturnaround and “real time” information.

C.3 STATEMENT OF WORK

The Contractor shall furnish all of the necessary personnel, materials, services, and facilities incident to the performance of the work as stated in each individual task order that may be issued under this contract.

See Section H.1 for task order procedures.

C.4 SERVICES TO BE PROVIDED

The services contemplated under this contract include policy assessments/analysis, program assessments, evaluation design studies and data collection, performance measurements, technical assistance/expertise, data analysis and auxiliary/support services which may be necessary to complete a particular project. An individual task order may require services in only one of these activities or a combination of the activities.

a. Policy Assessments/Analysis

These studies require analyses of major policy issues receiving active consideration by key Government officials. The policy-oriented information produced by these assessments contributes directly to internal debate on budgetary, legislative and program modification decisions, provides background analysis and support for major administration initiatives and, occasionally, produces the information base for Congressionally-mandated reports.

Policy assessments are focused somewhat broadly and prospectively on emerging issues and changing policy directions. Because timeliness of information is critical to policy assessments, these studies typically require rapid review, abstraction and analysis of current information and existing data bases. The major policy issue may be divided into sets of study questions to be analyzed in a focused and limited fashion throughout subsequent tasks. Analyses may often be iterative, as less fruitful study areas and data sources are eliminated from subsequent analysis. Analysis of policy issues can require the maintenance and further development of policy oriented models that are used in estimating the costs and impacts of policy changes. Systematic and in-depth literature reviews may be required. This work may involve quick turn-around, fact-finding or information gathering and analysis. Discussions with subject matter experts, either in on-on-one settings or as part of a technical expert panel might also be required.

Typical products may include issue and discussion papers, papers summarizing the state of knowledge or describing the current practice on particular topics; reports summarizing relevant findings and information and identifying current knowledge gaps; and formal briefings for high level policy officials.

Identification of problems in and improvement of policy analysis may also be required. This may include researching and piloting new methods of performing policy analyses to improve their timeliness, reliability, and policy relevance; developing new methods of data collection such as electronic and web-based approaches; supporting work with various agencies to coordinate policy planning; and improving the quality and utility of policy analysis.

b. Program Assessments

These studies focus more narrowly on current programs in an effort to understand outcomes, define issues, or highlight problems and areas for improvement. These studies may be distinctly more management and impact/outcome oriented. The intended uses of program assessments are similar to policy assessments and may include budgetary and legislative decisions as well as program modification or redesign. Program assessments may identify ”best practices” in program sites, produce information on program efficiency or impacts/outcomes, and recommend options for program change or subsequent evaluation.

Program assessments may involve analysis of existing data or new data collection. Depending on the extent of data collection, it may require OMB clearance. Undertaking a program assessment may include various activities and methods of data collection. For example, telephone contacts may be used to collect information from project sites or from individuals knowledgeable about the program. Similarly, site visits may be used to obtain information on program performance, to corroborate or correct information from other sources and to determine the feasibility of proposed measures and comparisons. Other potential data collection methods may include web-based surveys or review of program documents.

c. Evaluation Design Efforts, Evaluations, and Data Collection

These studies include efforts develop evaluation designs, as well as undertake actual evaluations. Evaluation design studies involve proposing technical designs (measurements and comparisons) to be used in evaluating a program, and providing recommendations about how best to study a program or intervention. . This information is used by program managers and policymakers to select a design for full-scale evaluation if further program performance information is needed.

Evaluation studies may require that Contractors identify and apply the appropriate evaluation methodologies and research designs needed to test a particular program or answer a specific research question. These studies may occur at the local, regional and national levels. As part of these studies, Contractors may need to construct and field test/validate a survey instrument, compile written survey protocols, train interviewers as necessary, prepare OMB clearance packages for submittal, perform extensive survey-related tasks and perform the appropriate survey follow up, analyze data and develop a final report of results and recommendations. Additionally, these studies may require the ability to access databases from appropriate sources, construct databases, and consult with experts as required. Contractors may also need to gather qualitative data through such activities as focus groups, facilitated sessions, and use of virtual techniques for data gathering and collaboration.

These studies may also include identifying problems in and improving the quality of evaluations and evaluation systems. Activities may include researching and piloting new methods of collecting data to improve timeliness, reliability, and policy relevance; developing new methods of data collecting such as electronic methods of transmission; working with other organizations to coordinate data collections; and improving the quality and utility of program data collections. Minor Information Technology requirements may be called for under this task such as encoding a survey into electronic format for use of laptop computers by survey personnel in conducting the survey.

d. Performance Measurement

The Government Performance and Results Act (GPRA) stipulates that all Federal agencies implement a performance measurement system that will track agency and program performance over time, using quantifiable indicators. Services to be provided may include reviewing, revising and, in some instances, helping to draft the performance plans for agency programs and linking these performance plans to the agency’s strategic plan. Services may also include redesigning and improving the quality of the performance measurement process, performance data, and the system and method by which data are collected. Activities may include the collection and analysis of program performance data; field observation reports; advice concerning improvement of agency performance measurement systems and dissemination of these methods to other government agencies and interested organizations.

e. Technical Assistance/Expertise –

Technical assistance may be provided in many different forms depending on the particular requirements of a given program office, including the development of written materials, training, convening of stakeholders for the purpose of sharing information, and other mechanisms. Generally, the Contractor shall provide or maintain a network of professional consultants and/or identify appropriately qualified experts to provide services on a relatively rapid basis in various program areas as specified by each individual task order.

Services may include technical assistance to grantees and/or program sites in the areas of organization, administration, services provision, and research; and, demonstration and evaluation activities. Grantees are a wide range of public and private organizations at the State and local level. Depending on the program and the requirement, services will vary from technical assistance to State agencies on service delivery systems to technical assistance to small, local non-profit organizations that provide direct services to clients. Government agencies or entities may require technical expertise in the areas of planning activities, evaluations, speeches, reports and policy papers, etc. Individual task orders may require one or a combination of both types of assistance.

Specifically, technical assistance to grantees and/or program sites may include, but is not limited to, the following:

f. Data Analysis

The Contractor shall be able to complete both simple and complex analyses of federally supplied and public access data. Use of STAT, Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS), Statistical Analysis System (SAS) and other analytic tools may be required. Tasks will vary from the straightforward to complex statistical analyses, such as those involving the estimation of multivariate models. Typically these tasks will involve short deadlines. Analyses may include cross-tabulations, calculations, or reliability and validity, sample selection, power analyses, trends, projections, estimates, calculations of sample sizes, and the preparation of narrative materials, graphs, charts, overheads and PowerPoint demonstrations suitable for clearance and distribution. For some projects, such as those using models, knowledge of C++ or other high level programming languages may be required. In addition, knowledge of software programs such as ActivePerl, GZIP, PHP, MySQL may be required.

g. Auxiliary/Support Services

The following services may be required in support of the above mentioned activities but not as independent task orders.

1. Translation and Interpretation. Services may be required for the translation of written documents and verbal communications to and from various languages. This may also include adaptation for the disabled such as Teletype (TTY), sign language, etc. The Contractor shall assist Government staff, as necessary, by providing, installing and printing specialized fonts or templates necessary for various languages.

2. Website Support Work. Services may include both design and maintenance of Government web sites. The Contractor shall manipulate and convert documents provided from various sources and in various formats. Services must comply with the Department and Government standards (i.e. 508 Compliance) and server compatibility, which may involve liaison work with the Government’s technical representatives. Website support services may also include technical assistance for existing web sites previously designed and produced by the Government agency.

3. Production and Distribution of Publications. Services may include design, layout, word processing, copy-editing and photocopying of reports, materials, brochures, or other printed or electronic materials. Graphic services, including those of graphic artists, may also be required for the preparation of graphs based on the analysis of technical data and in the preparation of flyers, posters, pamphlets, covers, logos, and promotional materials. All services shall comply with agency and Departmental standards and requirements, which may involve liaison work with agency representatives, writers, graphic designers, and the Government Printing Office (GPO). GPO requirements may also necessitate the Contractor working with the agency for printing, duplication and/or publication of materials through GPO.

C.5 LABOR CLASS DEFINITIONS

Class I: Senior management personnel, normally holding an advanced degree, with a minimum of ten (10) years experience in conducting policy/program research, data analysis, evaluation studies and/or providing technical assistance to clients of which at least five (5) years experience has been in a senior management position or the administration of Policy Assessments/Analysis; Program Assessments; Evaluation Design Studies And Data Collection; Performance Measurements; Technical Assistance/Expertise; Data Analysis; Auxiliary/Support Services as appropriate; corporate level management experience that reflects an ability to command organizational resources and direct staff within the broader organization.

Class II: Associate management or technical personnel, normally holding an advanced degree, with a minimum of five years experience in conducting Policy Assessments/Analysis; Program Assessments; Evaluation Design Studies And Data Collection; Performance Measurements; Technical Assistance/Expertise; Data Analysis; Auxiliary/Support Services, as appropriate.

Class III: Intermediate technical personnel, normally holding a BS or BA degree and at least three years experience in technical activities related to Policy Assessments/Analysis; Program Assessments; Evaluation Design Studies And Data Collection; Performance Measurements; Technical Assistance/Expertise; Data Analysis; Auxiliary/Support Services, as appropriate. The individual is capable of carrying out independent assignments with minimum supervision or acting as leader of small projects. Includes specialists in computer programming, survey design, etc.

Class IV: Junior analysts, normally holding a BS or BA degree, with three years or less experience in technical areas. Includes research assistants and junior personnel who regularly assist analysts and specialists on routine technical work, such as data collection.

Class V: Other technical staff such as editors, etc.

Class VI: Clerical/Administrative

C.6 GOVERNMENT FURNISHED PROPERTY

The Contractor shall provide all equipment necessary for performance of this contract. The Government may provide Government property to the Contractor for use in the performance of task orders on a case by case basis. The property shall be used and maintained by the Contractor in accordance with the HHS Contractors' Guide for Control of Government Property. The Contractor shall be responsible and accountable for all government property; either furnished or acquired, and also is required to keep the Government's official records of Government property in their possession and control.

C.7 PERFORMANCE STANDARDS

Performance standards for task orders issued under this contract will be contained in the individual task orders.

SECTION D - Packaging and Marking

D.1. MARKING

Marking for task orders issued under this contract will be contained in the individual task orders.

SECTION E - Inspection and Acceptance

E.1. INSPECTION AND ACCEPTANCE

The individual Task Order COR, as a duly authorized representative of the Contracting Officer, shall assume the responsibilities for monitoring the contractor’s performance, evaluating the quality of services provided by the contractor, and performing final inspection and acceptance of all deliverables.

E.2 52.252-2 CLAUSES INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE (FEB 1998)

This contract incorporates one or more clauses by reference, with the same force and effect as if they were given in full text. Upon request, the Contracting Officer will make their full text available. Also, the full text of a clause may be accessed electronically at this address:

http://www.arnet.gov/far/

SERVICE

COST REIMBURSEMENT

SERVICE

TIME AND

MATERIAL/ LABOR HOUR

SERVICE

COMMERCIAL ORDERS

X

Alt I (Aug 2012)

X

X

SECTION F - Deliveries or Performance

F.1 PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE

Performance of this contract shall be for a base period of five years and an option period of five additional years, unless the period of performance is extended by modification to the contract.

F.2 PLACE OF PERFORMANCE

The place of performance of most orders will take place at the Contractor’s facility or within the Washington, D.C. metro area unless specified otherwise. Specific locations will be stated in the task orders.

SECTION G - Contract Administration Data

G.1 INVOICE SUBMISSION - NONCOMMERCIAL

The Contractor shall submit invoices once per month. A complete invoice with all required back-up documentation shall be sent electronically, via email, to:

1. Contract Specialist via DAM mailbox: pscsas.invoices@psc.hhs.gov.*

2. Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR): TBD at TO award

3. Financial Management Service (FMS): psc_invoices@psc.hhs.gov.*

* No other non-invoice related documents (i.e. deliverables, reports, balance statements) shall be sent to the DAM and FMS mailboxes. Invoices Only.

The subject line of your email invoice submission shall contain the contract number, contract line item number, the order number, if applicable, and the number of invoices. The Contractor shall send one email per contract per month. The email may have multiple invoices for the contract. Invoices must be in the following formats: PDF, TIFF, or Word. No Excel formats will be accepted. The electronic file cannot contain multiple invoices; example, 10 invoices requires 10 separate files (PDF or TIFF or Word).

Invoices shall be submitted in accordance with the contract terms, i.e. payment schedule, progress payments, partial payments, deliverables, etc.

All calls concerning contract payment shall be directed to the COR.

In accordance with FAR 52.232-25 Prompt Payment, a proper invoice must include the following items:

(i) Name and address of the contractor.

(ii) Invoice date and invoice number. (Contractors should date invoices as close as possible to the date of mailing or transmission.)

(iii) Contract number or other authorization for supplies delivered or services performed (including order number and contract line item number).

(iv) Description, quantity, unit of measure, unit price, and extended price of supplies delivered or services performed.

(v) Shipping and payment terms (e.g., shipment number and date of shipment, discount for prompt payment terms). Bill of lading number and weight of shipment will be shown for shipments on Government bills of lading.

(vi) Name and address of contractor official to whom payment is to be sent (must be the same as that in the contract or in a proper notice of assignment).

(vii) Name (where practicable), title, phone number, and mailing address of person to notify in the event of a defective invoice.

(viii) Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) and Dun & Bradstreet Number (DUNS). The contractor must include its TIN and DUNS on the invoice.

(ix) Electronic funds transfer (EFT) banking information.

In accordance with OMB Memorandum, M-11-32, Agencies shall make payments to small businesses as soon as practicable, with the goal of making payments within 15 days of receipt of a proper invoice. If a small business contractor is not paid within this (15 day) accelerated period, the contractor will not be given a late-payment interest penalty. Interest penalties, as prescribed by the Prompt Payment Act, remain unchanged by means of this memorandum. All small businesses shall label all invoices as “Small Business.”

Additionally, in accordance with OMB Memorandum, M-12-16, all prime contractors are encouraged to disburse funds received from the Federal Government to their small business subcontractors in a prompt manner. To assist prime contractors in expediting contractor payments to small business subcontractors, Agencies shall, to the full extent permitted by law, temporarily establish an earlier, accelerated date for making agency payments to all prime contractors. Consistent with OMB Memorandum M-11-32 above, Agencies shall have a goal of paying all prime contractors within 15 days of receiving proper documentation. In an effort to support small business growth, drive economic activity and job creation, the Contractor is encouraged to accelerate payments to their small business subcontractors.

In accordance with the requirements of the Debt Collection Improvement Act of 1996, all payments under this order will be made by electronic funds transfer (EFT). The Contractor shall provide financial institution information to the Finance Office designated above in accordance with FAR 52.232-33 Payment by Electronic Funds Transfer – System for Award Management.

G.2 INVOICE SUBMISSION - COMMERCIAL

The Contractor shall submit invoices once per month. A complete invoice with all required back-up documentation shall be sent electronically, via email, to:

1. Contract Specialist via DAM mailbox: pscsas.invoices@psc.hhs.gov*

2. Contracting Officer's Representative (COR):

3. Financial Management Service (FMS): psc_invoices@psc.hhs.gov*

* No other non-invoice related documents (i.e. deliverables, reports, balance statements) shall be sent to the DAM and FMS mailboxes. Invoices Only.

The subject line of your email invoice submission shall contain the contract number, contract line item number, the order number, if applicable, and the number of invoices. The Contractor shall send one email per contract per month. The email may have multiple invoices for the contract. Invoices must be in the following formats: PDF, TIFF, or Word. No Excel formats will be accepted. The electronic file cannot contain multiple invoices; example, 10 invoices requires 10 separate files (PDF or TIFF or Word).

Invoices shall be submitted in accordance with the contract terms, i.e. payment schedule, progress payments, partial payments, deliverables, etc.

All calls concerning contract payment shall be directed to the COR.

In accordance with FAR 52.212-4, Contract Terms and Conditions-Commercial Items, a proper invoice must include the following items:

FAR 52.212-4(g) Invoice.

(1) The Contractor shall submit an original invoice and three copies (or electronic invoice, if authorized) to the address designated in the contract to receive invoices. An invoice must include:

(i) Name and address of the Contractor;

(ii) Invoice date and number;

(iii) Contract number, contract line item number and, if applicable, the order number;

(iv) Description, quantity, unit of measure, unit price and extended price of the items delivered;

(v) Shipping number and date of shipment, including the bill of lading number and weight of shipment if shipped on Government bill of lading;

(vi) Terms of any discount for prompt payment offered;

(vii) Name and address of official to whom payment is to be sent;

(viii) Name, title, and phone number of person to notify in event of defective invoice; and

(ix) Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN). The Contractor shall include its TIN on the invoice only if required elsewhere in this contract.

(x) Electronic funds transfer (EFT) banking information.

(A) The Contractor shall include EFT banking information on the invoice only if required elsewhere in this contract.

(B) If EFT banking information is not required to be on the invoice, in order for the invoice to be a proper invoice, the Contractor shall have submitted correct EFT banking information in accordance with the applicable solicitation provision, contract clause (e.g., 52.232-33, Payment by Electronic Funds Transfer, System for Award Management, or 52.232-34, Payment by Electronic Funds Transfer, Other Than System for Award Management), or applicable agency procedures.

(C) EFT banking information is not required if the Government waived the requirement to pay by EFT.

(2) Invoices will be handled in accordance with the Prompt Payment Act (31 U.S.C. 3903) and Office of Management and Budget (OMB) prompt payment regulations at 5 CFR Part 1315.

Additionally, the FMS requires the contractor to include its Dun & Bradstreet Number (DUNS) on each invoice.

In accordance with OMB Memorandum, M-11-32, Agencies shall make payments to small businesses as soon as practicable, with the goal of making payments within 15 days of receipt of a proper invoice. If a small business contractor is not paid within this (15 day) accelerated period, the contractor will not be given a late-payment interest penalty. Interest penalties, as prescribed by the Prompt Payment Act, remain unchanged by means of this memorandum. All small businesses shall label all invoices as "Small Business."

Additionally, in accordance with OMB Memorandum, M-12-16, all prime contractors are encouraged to disburse funds received from the Federal Government to their small business subcontractors in a prompt manner. To assist prime contractors in expediting contractor payments to small business subcontractors, Agencies shall, to the full extent permitted by law, temporarily establish an earlier, accelerated date for making agency payments to all prime contractors. Consistent with OMB Memorandum M-11-32 above, Agencies shall have a goal of paying all prime contractors within 15 days of receiving proper documentation. In an effort to support small business growth, drive economic activity and job creation, the Contractor is encouraged to accelerate payments to their small business subcontractors.

In accordance with the requirements of the Debt Collection Improvement Act of 1996, all payments under this order will be made by electronic funds transfer (EFT). The Contractor shall provide financial institution information to the Finance Office designated above in accordance with FAR 52.232-33 Payment by Electronic Funds Transfer - System for Award Management.

G.3 CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION - COST REIMBURSEMENT

G.3.1 MINIMUM COST INFORMATION FOR COST REIMBURSEMENT CONTRACTS

The Contractor's monthly billings must be submitted in a format showing expenditures for that month, as well as contract cumulative amounts.

1. Direct Labor - include all persons, listing the person's name, title, number of hours worked, hourly rate, the total cost per person and a total amount for this category;

2. Fringe Costs - show rate, base and total amount;

3. Overhead or Indirect Costs - show rate, base and total amount;

4. Consultants (if applicable) - include the name, number of days or hours worked, daily or hourly rate, and a total amount per consultant;

5. Travel - include for each airplane or train trip taken the name of the traveler, date of travel, destination, the transportation costs including ground transportation shown separately and the per diem costs. Other travel costs shall also be listed;

6. Data Processing - include all non-labor costs, i.e., computer time;

7. Other Direct Costs - include a listing of all other direct charges to the contract, i.e., office supplies, telephone, duplication, postage;

8. G & A - show rate, base and total; and

9. Fee - show rate, base and total.

The Contractor shall also submit supporting documentation (receipts/invoices) to substantiate costs incurred.

G.3.2 TRAVEL AND OTHER COSTS

The Contractor shall be reimbursed for all domestic travel as described below, incurred directly and specifically in the performance of this contract, claimed by the Contractor, accepted by the Contracting Officer and not exceeding:

a) Cost of air travel by most direct route. “Air coach” or “Air tourist” accommodations on prop or jet aircraft constitutes the normal class of air travel which shall be utilized.

First-class accommodations may be used if (1) less than first-class is not available providing reservation was requested within 24 hours after the traveler had knowledge of the trip; (2) less than first-class requires circuitous routing; (3) less than first-class requires travel to begin or end at unreasonable hours (i.e., if scheduled flight time is before 8:00 a.m. and schedule arrival is after 9:00 p.m.); (4) less than first-class would result in additional direct costs which would offset the transportation savings; or (5) less than first-class will not make connections with other flights or means of transportation for continuation of the journey.

b) Cost of rail travel by most direct route, first-class with lower berth or nearest equivalent.

c) Travel by motor vehicle including rented automobile shall be reimbursed on a reasonable actual expense basis, or at the Contractor’s option, on a mileage basis at the current rate shown in the GSA Federal Travel Regulation, plus any toll or ferry charges.

d) Reasonable subsistence not in excess of actual itemized expenses not to exceed the ceiling in the Federal Travel Regulations in effect at the time of incurred cost.

G.3.3 PROVISIONS APPLICABLE TO DIRECT COSTS

Notwithstanding Clause 52.216-7 "Allowable Cost and Payment" and Clause 52.244-2 "Subcontracts", of the Federal Acquisition Regulation, unless otherwise expressly provided elsewhere in the contract or in any modification thereto, the cost of the following items or activities shall be unallowable as direct costs:

1. Acquisition by purchase or lease, of any interest in real property.

2. Special rearrangement or alteration of facilities;

3. Purchase or lease or rental of any item of general purpose; office furniture or office equipment (including data tapes);

4. Travel to foreign countries; and

5. Food and beverage costs unless part of per diem expenses paid in accordance with the Federal Travel Regulations.

Any equipment having a unit acquisition cost in excess of $1,000.00, of which the Contractor wishes to be reimbursed as a direct item of cost, shall not be acquired by the Contractor without the specific advance written approval of the Contracting Officer.

G.4 CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION – TIME & MATERIAL, LABOR HOUR

G.4.1 TRAVEL AND OTHER COSTS

The Contractor shall be reimbursed for all domestic travel as described below, incurred directly and specifically in the performance of this contract, claimed by the Contractor, accepted by the Contracting Officer and not exceeding:

a) Cost of air travel by most direct route. “Air coach” or “Air tourist” accommodations on prop or jet aircraft constitutes the normal class of air travel which shall be utilized.

First-class accommodations may be used if (1) less than first-class is not available providing reservation was requested within 24 hours after the traveler had knowledge of the trip; (2) less than first-class requires circuitous routing; (3) less than first-class requires travel to begin or end at unreasonable hours (i.e., if scheduled flight time is before 8:00 a.m. and schedule arrival is after 9:00 p.m.); (4) less than first-class would result in additional direct costs which would offset the transportation savings; or (5) less than first-class will not make connections with other flights or means of transportation for continuation of the journey.

b) Cost of rail travel by most direct route, first-class with lower berth or nearest equivalent.

c) Travel by motor vehicle including rented automobile shall be reimbursed on a reasonable actual expense basis, or at the Contractor’s option, on a mileage basis at the current rate shown in the GSA Federal Travel Regulation, plus any toll or ferry charges.

d) Reasonable subsistence not in excess of actual itemized expenses not to exceed the ceiling in the Federal Travel Regulations in effect at the time of incurred cost.

G.4.2 PROVISIONS APPLICABLE TO DIRECT COSTS

Notwithstanding Clause 52.216-7 "Allowable Cost and Payment" and Clause 52.244-2 "Subcontracts", of the Federal Acquisition Regulation, unless otherwise expressly provided elsewhere in the contract or in any modification thereto, the cost of the following items or activities shall be unallowable as direct costs:

1. Acquisition by purchase or lease, of any interest in real property.

2. Special rearrangement or alteration of facilities;

3. Purchase or lease or rental of any item of general purpose; office furniture or office equipment (including data tapes);

4. Travel to foreign countries; and

5. Food and beverage costs unless part of per diem expenses paid in accordance with the Federal Travel Regulations.

Any equipment having a unit acquisition cost in excess of $1,000.00, of which the Contractor wishes to be reimbursed as a direct item of cost, shall not be acquired by the Contractor without the specific advance written approval of the Contracting Officer.

G.5 AUTHORITIES OF GOVERNMENT PERSONNEL

Notwithstanding the Contractor's responsibility for total management during the performance of this contract, the administration of this IDIQ will require maximum coordination between the Government and the Contractor. The following individuals will be the Government's points of contact during the performance of this IDIQ:

G.5.1 Contracting Officer

The Contracting Officer for this IDIQ, also referred to as “IDIQ CO” is Clint Druk. All communications pertaining to contractual and/or administrative matters under the IDIQ shall be addressed to Clint Druk, 12501 Ardennes Avenue; Suite 400, Rockville, MD 20852; clint.druk@psc.hhs.gov 301-443-0403.

G.5.2 IDIQ CORs’ Authority

(a) Performance of work under this contract must be subject to the technical direction of the Contracting Officer’s Representative identified above, or a representative designated in writing. The term “technical direction” includes, without limitation, direction to the contractor that directs or redirects the labor effort, shifts the work between work areas or locations, fills in details and otherwise serves to ensure that tasks outlined in the work statement are accomplished satisfactorily.

(b) Technical direction must be within the scope of the specification(s)/work statement.

The Contracting Officer’s Representative does not have authority to issue technical direction that:

(1) Constitutes a change of assignment or additional work outside the specification(s)/statement of work;

(2) Constitutes a change as defined in the clause entitled “Changes”;

(3) In any manner causes an increase or decrease in the contract price, or the time required for contract performance;

(4) Changes any of the terms, conditions, or specification(s)/work statement of the contract;

(5) Interferes with the contractor's right to perform under the terms and conditions of the contract; or

(6) Directs, supervises or otherwise controls the actions of the contractor's employees.

(c) Technical direction may be oral or in writing. The Contracting Officer’s Representative shall confirm oral direction in writing within five work days, with a copy to the Contracting Officer.

(d) The contractor shall proceed promptly with performance resulting from the technical direction issued by the Contracting Officer’s Representative. If, in the opinion of the contractor, any direction of the Contracting Officer’s Representative, or his/her designee, falls within the limitations in (b), above, the contractor shall immediately notify the Contracting Officer no later than the beginning of the next Government work day.

(e) Failure of the contractor and the Contracting Officer to agree that technical direction is within the scope of the contract shall be subject to the terms of the clause entitled “Disputes.”

G.6 EQUIPMENT

No equipment shall be purchased under this contract without prior written authorization from the Task Order Contracting Officer.

G.7 CONTRACTOR PERFORMANCE ASSESSMENT REPORT

During the life of this IDIQ contract and all task order contracts, Contractor performance will be evaluated on an interim and final basis pursuant to FAR Subpart 42.15. The Contractor Performance Assessment Reporting System (CPARS) will be utilized for these reviews. Information on CPARS can be located at http://www.cpars.gov.

SECTION H - Special Contract Requirements

H.1 TASK ORDER PROCEDURES

a. The Contractor will be provided with a Statement of Work, Schedule of Deliverables and other additional instructions as needed for each individual task order to be issued under this contract. These documents, collectively referred to as a Request for Task Order Proposal (RFTOP), will be issued by email and will specify whether the TO is commercial or noncommercial.

b. Orders requiring special conditions such as 508 Compliance, HSPD-12, Human Subjects, Small Business Set-aside clauses, 352.201-70 Paperwork Reduction Act, Privacy Act, or Conference clauses will be considered at the task order level when the requirement is defined

c. The RFTOP package will include special instructions that are particular to the requirement and information concerning the basis for award. The basis for award of any task order will be determined by the specific programmatic needs of the requesting agency but will be in accordance with FAR Part 16.505(b).

d. For IT requirements, the appropriate HHS IT policies and procedures will be included based on the work to be performed in specific orders and the current applicable regulations and HHS policies.

e. For requirements requiring Security, the appropriate HHS Security policies and procedures will be included based on the work to be performed in specific orders and the current applicable regulations and HHS policies.

fd. Provisions specific to the work to be performed under an order will be included in the RFTOPs per applicable regulations and HHS policies.

ge. Offerors will be able to propose their own labor categories at the task order level and map them to the rates proposed in Section B. The rate ceilings in Section B cannot be exceeded.

f. RFTOP evaluation and award will be conducted in accordance with the requirements of FAR 16.5. For individual RFTOPs, the Government reserves the right to request proposal revisions that seek additional price discounts, provide revisions to the technical proposal, or clarify aspects of the proposal. In the event proposal revisions are requested, the Government will not necessarily be seeking revisions from all respondents. The Government will not be conducting "discussions" as defined in FAR Part 15.

Note: It is DHHS policy that Contractors are responsible for providing all equipment and facilities necessary for performance of contracts. No equipment shall be purchased under this contract unless prior written authorization has been obtained from the individual Task Order Contracting Officer.

H.2 TASK ORDER INFORMATION

a. Each task order will contain the following minimum information:

b. The Contractor shall submit separate invoices for each task order.

H.3 EXTENSIONS AFTER AWARD

It is the intent of the Government that all task orders be completed within the time frame specified in each order. Any request for an extension beyond the initial period of performance specified in the task order will be granted on a case by case basis. It is not to be assumed that all requests for extension will be granted.

H.4 PERFORMANCE CRITERIA AND QUALITY ASSURANCE SURVEILLANCE PLANS

Some task orders issued under this contract may be issued as performance based service task orders. Individual task orders will contain performance criteria tailored to the individual requirement.

H.5 POST AWARD ORGANIZATIONAL CONFLICT OF INTEREST

a. General: The Contractor shall have programs in place to identify, report, and mitigate actual and potential conflicts of interest for itself, its employees, subcontractors and consultants. The existence of such programs and the disclosure of known actual or potential conflicts are material performance requirements of this contract.

b. Disclosure: The Contractor shall report all actual and potential conflicts of interest pertaining to this contract to the Contracting Officer, including those that would be caused by a contemplated modification to this contact or another contract. Such reports shall be in writing (including by email). Upon request, the Contractor shall respond to a Contracting Officer’s request for an OCI mitigation plan.

c. Resolution: In the event the Contracting Officer determines that a conflict of interest exists, based on disclosure from the Contractor or from other sources, the Contracting Officer shall take action which may include, but is not limited to, requesting a mitigation plan from…