J - Attach 12 Global Advisory Q_A Template IDIQ Evaluation Only Answers.pdf

Q # RFP Section J - Attachment Page # Paragraph Category Contractor Questions & Comments Government Responses 1 RFP - Section G Attach 1 - Labor Categories 59 G.5 Personnel This Section states, "The Program Manager is responsible for overall contract performance and shall not serve in any other capacity under this contract." Will the USG clarify under what circumstances will Program Manager labor be billed under an awarded contract? Does the Government intends to issue one task order per contract that captures estimated annual Program Manager (CONUS) costs.

The Program Manager costs will be allocated directly at the task order level. At the task order level, the Government will communicate the medium by which such costs will be allocated (i.e., one task order per contract or across all task orders accordingly).

2 RFP - Section A Schedule As of 27 January 2025, does the government anticipate any impact to the procurement schedule and/or award of this IDIQ contract given the current restrictions on Department of State funding awards in place?

Please continue to monitor SAM.gov for any amendments or updates.

Please avoid contacting the government POC's directly.

3 RFP - Section C 42 L.5.1 Format/Structure We are unable to find the reference for paragraph H.9.5, would the government please confirm that this reference should be H.7.5?

p 42 C.5. Pre-Deployment C.5.1. See Section H, Special Contract Requirements, paragraph H.9.5. Pre-performance requirements.

Section C:

H.7.5. Pre-Deployment Requirements. The Contractor shall provide all required administrative and logistical support services necessary to deploy advisors within 60 calendar days of a TO award. Pre-deployment support shall at a minimum,ensure:

Confirmed. Corrected in Section C to state "paragraph H.7.5"

4 RFP - Section L 150 L.33.1.1.2. Format/Structure The rating criteria for Scope, Magnitude and Complexity are provided in Section M, paragraph M.13.6.

Offeror notes this reference should be M.14.6. Please confirm.

Confirmed. Changed in L.33.1.1.2 to show M.14.6

5 RFP - Section L 160 L.34.3.39.6. Vol IV - Price Proposal (Fctr 4) RFP requires 'Most recent (within the last year) audit report'.

Please confirm that Audit for year ending 12/31/2023 is acceptable? Offeror observes that FY 2024 audit will not be complete prior to proposal due date.

Yes, an audit for year ending 12/31/2023 is acceptable.

6 RFP - Section L 160 L.34.3.39.7. Vol IV - Price Proposal (Fctr 4) RFP requires 'Most recent (within the last year) audit report'.

Please confirm that Audit for year ending 12/31/2023 is acceptable? Offeror observes that FY 2024 audit will not be complete prior to proposal due date.

Yes, an audit for year ending 12/31/2023 is acceptable.

7 RFP - Section L 163 L.35.3.3. Vol V - Resp Det (Fctr 5) RFP states "The submitted financial statements shall include the following for the past full offeror fiscal year:" Please confirm that Audit for year ending 12/31/2023 is acceptable? Offeror observes that FY 2024 audit will not be complete prior to proposal due date.

Yes, an audit for year ending 12/31/2023 is acceptable.

8 RFP - Section L 160 and L.34.3.39.6. Format/Structure Will the government clarify in which Volume the audited financial statements should be provided? Currently, they are required as part of Volume IV - Price and Volume V - Responsibility Determination.

Audited financial statements shall be provided in Volume V. Volume IV allows for submission of an audit report that addresses indirect cost rates.

9 RFP - Section L 146 L.32.5 Format/Structure RFP States "The Offeror’s proposed Management Approach (Factor 2, see Section M, para M.12.) shall include the following five sub-factors:"

Offeror notes there are four subfactors in Management Approach, please confirm above statement should state 'four'.

Confirmed. Changed in RFP L.32.5 to read "four" sub-factors.

J - Attachment 12 – Global Advisory Q&A Template – IDIQ Evaluation Only Answers Provided with Amendment 1

10 RFP - Section L 147 and L.32.5.1.5 / Format/Structure RFP Section L.32.5.1.5 states "A detailed staffing plan explaining how all OCONUS Personnel will be deployed within 30 days from the date of contract award,"

RFP Section M.12.1.1.6. states "The Government shall evaluate the Offeror’s detailed staffing plan detailing how all OCONUS Personnel will be deployed within 60 days from the date of contract/task order awards.....".

Will the government please confirm if the staffing plan requirement is 30 days or 60 days from date of award?

Government confirms that the staffing plan requirement is 60 days from date of award.

11 RFP - Section L 146 L.32.5.4. Subcontracting/Teaming/JVs The Small Business Subcontracting plan is to be submitted as part of the Volume II - Management Volume, but contains price information including total contract value and value of subcontracting. Please confirm the plan should be submitted in Volume II.

RFP Section L.32.5.4 has been updated to include instructions for offerors to submit the Small Business Subcontracting plan in percentages of total contract value in accordance with The Department of State goals for fiscal year 2025.

The amended RFP contains the correct references.

12 RFP - Section L 146 L.32.5.4.1. Subcontracting/Teaming/JVs Will the government please provide the referenced

"Department of State Small Business Subcontracting Plan" template, or confirm that offerors may use their own plans that are responsive to the subject regulations?

This is up to the offeror on how they want to present this information in accordance to L.32.5.4.1.

13 RFP - Section L 146 L.32.5.4.1. Subcontracting/Teaming/JVs Given that this is an IDIQ with an indeterminite value, and that the SB Subcontracting plan will be evaluated as part of the Management Volume, offerors may identify significantly different values based on varying criteria. Would the government provide an estimated value that large business offerors should use as a basis for total contract value for the Small Business Subcontract Plans?

See question 11

14 RFP - Section L 155 L.34.3 - NOT Format/Structure The RFP does not appear to include paragraphs referenced as L.34.2.38 through L.34.2.40. Could you please provide the reference for the items that must be submitted as separate files per the above instruction?

The amended RFP contains the correct references.

15 RFP - Section J Attach 1 - Labor Categories J-6 CLINs Vol IV - Price Proposal (Fctr 4) The Program Manager has overall IDIQ management and performance responsibility.

Under what circumstances will the Government allow the Program Manager to be billed under the rates established for CLINs X001 and X016?

RFP Section B.4.1 describes the applicability of the awarded NTE fully-loaded hourly labor rates, including for CLINs X001 (Program Manager - CONUS) and X014 (Program Manager - OCONUS). Also, please see RFP Sections B.4.16. and B.4.14.8.

16 RFP - Section J Attach 10 - Sample Task Order 7 5.1 Sample Task Order To enable a fully compliant response and ensure pricing realism, will the Government confirm Offerors' Sample Task Order responses can indicate a real country in the coastal East Africa geographic region as the place of performance? (Offeror confirms no U.S. Embassies or foreign governments will be contacted.)

Offeror shall choose a real country or create a fictional country in the region(s).

The Government will not perform a price realism analysis for this contemplated (IDIQ) contract. Instead, the Government will perform a price reasonableness analysis. Please see RFP Section M.15.1.

The Government is not soliciting pricing for the Sample Task Order.

17 RFP - Section J Attach 10 - Sample Task Order 7 5.2 Sample Task Order To enable a fully compliant response and ensure pricing realism, will the Government confirm Offerors' Sample Task Order responses can indicate a real country in the Balkans geographic region as the place of performance? (Offeror confirms no U.S.

Embassies or foreign governments will be contacted.)

See question 16

18 RFP - Section J Attach 10 - Sample Task Order 24 and 25 Page Count/Limit Will the Government confirm that the two Sample Task Order key personnel resumes are exempt from the overall Volume I-III page count?

Resumes are not included in the page count. See the amended RFP Section L.26.2 for exemptions.

19 RFP - Section J Attach 13 - IDIQ Resume Temp Page Count/Limit Will the Government confirm that the IDIQ key personnel Program Manager resume is exempt from the overall Volume I- III page count?

See question 18

20 RFP - Section J Attach 3 - Equip Specifications Tab 4 Row 44 Equipment/Vehicles What is the Government Estimated unit of measure to be priced for personnel vehicle leases? E.g. months? years?

The unit of measure shall be a year for Ordering Periods 1 through 5, and six months for the Six-Month Option.

21 RFP - Section J Attach 3 - Equip Specifications Tab 4 Row 44 Equipment/Vehicles Acknowledging the clear vehicle specifications presented in Attachment J-3, offeror notes vehicle lease prices vary widely depending on specific country location, and at times in different locations in a given country.

Q1: What geographic assumptions should Offerors make when proposing vehicle lease price ceilings?

Q2: Will the Government consider a plug value or eliminating the vehicle lease requirement from the evaluated pricing ?

The Government is soliciting a not-to-exceed (NTE) unit price per period. Offerors may derive each proposed NTE unit price in a manner of their choosing consistent with RFP requirements.

No.

22 RFP - Section J Attach 9 - PPQ Template 2.(a) and 2.( Format/Structure Will the Government clarify what PPQ template sections 2.(a) and 2.(b) are referencing? Are these meant to be an evaluation of the offeror's Program Manager's performance on the program?

Offeror observes the PPQ criteria do not align with section M.14.6.2. and sub sections evaluation criteria and description of Magnitude.

Please clarify how Magnitude will be evaluated in the PPQ.

Confirmed. PPQ section 2 (a) and (b) corrected to match M14.6.2

23 RFP - Section J Attach 9 - PPQ Template Section 2 - MVol III - Past Perf (Fctr 3) Please confirm the program value requirement to be considered relevant in Magnitude for evaluation.

RFP M.14.6.2.3 (Full and Open Pool) states 'Offeror(s) shall demonstrate past performance experience in the areas of magnitude by performing similar work at varying levels with a value of at least $750K.' RFP M.14.6.2.4 (Small Business Pool) states 'Offeror(s) shall demonstrate past performance experience in the area of magnitude by performing similar work at varying levels with a value of at least $250K' PPQ Section 2.(a) states 'advisory services of varying size and complexity and a minimum of $5 million ceiling value' for single or multiple contracts and/or task orders.

PPQ Section 2.(b) states '...for Foreign Assistance programs for the Department of State and/or United States Agency for International Development with an individual or multiple contract or task order award with a minimum $1 million obligated value."

See Question 22

24 RFP - Section J Attach 9 - PPQ Template Section 3 - CVol III - Past Perf (Fctr 3) Offeror observes the current criteria in PPQ template Sections 3.(a) through 3.(d) do not align with section M.14.6.3. and sub sections evaluation criteria and description of Complexity.

Please clarify how prorgram Complexity will be evaluated in the

PPQ.

Confirmed. PPQ section 3 (a) corrected to match M.14.6.3. PPQ section 3 (b) through (d) are summaries of the requirements in M.14.6.3

25 RFP - Section B 3 CLIN 001 Vol IV - Price Proposal (Fctr 4) Where are attachments J-Attachment 2, J-Attachment 4 and J- Attachment 5 that will be "inserted at the time of award".

Are these values included in the tabs contained in "J - Attach 11 - Pricing Tables - IDIQ Evaluation Only.xslx"?

The Government will complete and provide these attachments at IDIQ award.

Please see RFP Sections L.34.2.5., M.15.4., and M.15.5.

26 RFP - Section L 150 L.33.1.1.2. Vol III - Past Perf (Fctr 3) Please confirm the reference to paragrpah M.13.6. is actually for the paragraph numbered M.14.6.

Confirmed. The amended RFP contains the correct references.

27 RFP - Section L 154 l.34.2.2. Vol IV - Price Proposal (Fctr 4) This section states "Pricing Table 4, the Subtotal formula for the six-month option to extend is one-half of the Govt-Estimated Hours x Govt-Estimated FTEs x Proposed NTE Fully-Loaded Hourly Labor Rate."; However, the formula in table 4 does not divide the hours in half or allow the contractor to change the formula due to the fact that the workbook is locked for editing.

Will the government fix or consider unlocking the workbook?

The Government fixed the formula in cells AA5 through AA30. Thank you. Please see the amended Pricing Table 4.

28 RFP - Section L 155 L.34 Note 1 Vol IV - Price Proposal (Fctr 4) Note 1 states: "Each file gathered or prepared in response to paragraphs L.34.2.38. through L.34.2.40. shall be submitted as a separate file and not assembled into one file." Can the government please provide these referenced paragraphs or correct the paragraph numbers? (This also appears in several other sections)

The amended RFP contains the correct references.

29 RFP - Section L 156 L.34.3.11 Vol IV - Price Proposal (Fctr 4) L.34.3.11 states "rates shall reflect the dollar amount the offeror anticipates receiving through the duration of this potential contract (cumulative of all task orders)." Is this dollar amount the total of indirects using the governments estimated FTEs and hours in this solicitation?

Based on their internal projections, which should not surpass the maximum quantity of $250 million (reference RFP Section B.3.2.), offerors shall determine the dollar amount they anticipate receiving through the duration of this potential contract (cumulative of all task orders).

For example, if the offeror's Fringe Benefits allocation base is "Total Labor Dollars," the offeror must determine the impact of the anticipated potential (cumulative of all task orders) on its direct labor dollars and on its indirect labor dollars.

30 RFP - Section L 16 B.4.14.5 Vol IV - Price Proposal (Fctr 4) "A normal workweek of 40 hours applies to performance in the continental United States (CONUS). “CONUS” means the 48 contiguous states, Alaska, Hawaii, and the District of Columbia."

Are 40 hour work weeks only for CONUS LCATs?

40 hour work weeks are not only for CONUS positions. There are 40 hour work weeks for OCONUS positions per J-Attachment 11 - Pricing Tables, Tab 4. 'IDIQ Prices'

31 RFP - Section L 16 B.4.14.6 Vol IV - Price Proposal (Fctr 4) "A normal workweek of 48 hours applies to performance outside the continental United States (OCONUS)." Are all 48 hour work weeks OCONUS LCATs?

Yes, 48 hour work weeks are only authorized for OCONUS positions per J-Attachment 11 - Pricing Tables, Tab 4. 'IDIQ Prices'

32 RFP - Section J Attach 11 - Pricing Tables J - Attach 4. IDIQ Price Vol IV - Price Proposal (Fctr 4) CLINS 1-13 are all labeled as "OCONUS", yet they are listed as 5 day work weeks. Can the government clarify whether these are CONUS or OCONUS postions?

Government confirms that CLIN X002 though X013 are OCONUS 5 day work week positions per J-Attachment 11 - Pricing Tables, Tab 4. 'IDIQ Prices'

33 RFP - Section J Attach 11 - Pricing Tables J - Attach 4. IDIQ Price Vol IV - Price Proposal (Fctr 4) What is the unit of measure for CLIN X310 "Vehicle (Personnel Transport)(Lease)" Quantity? Additionally why does the "Govt- Estimated Quantity" go down for larger FTE counts in the option Years?

The unit of measure shall be a year for Ordering Periods 1 through 5, and six months for the Six-Month Option.

The government estimate quantity was estimated to decrease in the option years as efficiencies improve, with fewer FTEs needed due to workforce experience, streamlined processes, budget changes, or evolving mission needs.

34 RFP - Section L 140 L.27.2. throu Vol IV - Price Proposal (Fctr 4) Each of these paragraphs exclude Volume IV from the requirement, however, in the instructions for Volume IV the referenced elements are included. Please clarify whether the team list, table of contents, list of tables and figures, and glossary of abbreviations and acronyms are required in Volume

IV.

The amended RFP Sections L.27.2 - L.27.5 have been updated.

35 RFP - Section B 13 B.1.3. Contract Terms What are the government's % goals for work awarded between the full and open competition pool awarded and the small business competition pool? It appears that there's a possibility that very few Task Orders will be released to holders in the Full & Open pool.

See question 11

36 RFP - Section B 26 B.9.4.3. Personnel For local national translators, drivers, etc, who are working in support of the OCONUS advisor, is there a requirement for the contractor to provide them with DBA insurance coverage?

DBA insurance coverage is not mandatory for local nationals; however, it is required for Third Country Nationals (TCNs).

37 RFP - Section C 44 C.6.5.1. Facilities If there is a requirement for office space and the partner does not provide it, will the goverment allow for pricing of office space for the OCONUS advisors? If so, what will generally be acceptable?

No, the government will not authorize separate office space for OCONUS Advisors.

38 RFP - Section J Attach 10 - Sample Task Order 3 and 7 1.5 and 5. Sample Task Order The instructions for the sample task order mentions providing support services in the coastal East Africa and Balkans geographic regions. Does the government prefer we select specific countries in these two regions to write about, or should we keep a regional level for sample task order solution?

See question 16

39 RFP - Section J Attach 10 - Sample Task Order 7 and 20 8.1. and 24. Sample Task Order The sample task order labor categories for both the Senior Logistics Adivsor (Organizational Level) and Cybersecurity Advisor (Executive Level) require a clearance level of Top Secret.

While this is a realistic requirment for the executive level cybersecurity advisor, it looks to be an overburdensom requirement for a Senior Logistics Advisor supporting an African partner's logisitics function and depot. Would the government consider reducing the organizational level senior logistics advior clearance requirement to a level of Secret?

Confirmed. J-Attachment 10 - STO - Section 8.1 Updated to 'Secret' clearance required for Senior Logistics Advisor (Operational Level).

40 RFP - Section J Attach 10 - Sample Task Order 10 10.5. Schedule The deliverable schedule calls for two Situational Reports (SITREPS) and Calls per month, a Monthly Progress Report, and a quarterly report. These reports become highly redundant.

Would the government consider having either two SITREPS and Calls or one Monthly Report and Call in addition to the Quarterly report, but not both SITREPS and Monthly Reports and Calls?

No, the government is not changing the Deliverables required or the reporting schedule.

41 RFP - Section J Attach 10 - Sample Task Order 10 10.5. Sample Task Order Will the government furnish the formats for deliverable reporting requirements, or do they desire that the contractor develop the formats for reporting requirements?

Yes, the government will provide appropriate templates for Deliverables for actually awarded Task Orders.

42 RFP - Section J Attach 10 - Sample Task Order 25 i. Personnel Please provide or correct the paragrph number for refereced paragraph 9.4.2.16.

Confirmed. Updated language to refer to section 9.4.2.9 for appropriate certification references.

43 RFP - Section K 110 K.5.a.1 & 2 Contract Terms The NAICs code for this acquisition is 541611 - Adminstrative Management and General Management Consulting Services which according to the SBA webpage has a $24.5M size standard but (K.5.a.2) states the small business size standard is $15,000,000. Will the government please confirm the NAICs code and the small business size standard for this opportunity.

Confirmed. The small business size standard is 24.5M.

44 RFP - Section J Attach 1 - Labor Categories 2 Line 3 Qualifications How often does the government anticipate utilizing Technical Advisors (Organizational) requiring a Top Secret clearance?

Without minimum rank/position qualifications and only 6 years of relevant experience, clearance requirements have an outsized impact on compensation as it relates to this category.

This will be determined at the task order level.

45 RFP - Section K 110 K.5 Contract Terms The Government states, "a) (1) The North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code for this acquisition is 541611

– Administrative Management and General Management Consulting Services. (2) The small business size standard is $15,000,000." The SBA Table of Size Standards lists the NAICS code at $24.5 million. Please clarify.

See question 43

46 RFP - Section K 127 K.16.2 Contract Terms The Government states, "K.16.2. If the offeror is aware of any such information, the offeror shall provide a disclosure statement as part of its proposal which describes in a concise manner all relevant facts concerning any past, present, or planned interest (financial, contractual, organizational, or otherwise) relating to the work to be performed hereunder." In which volume shall the offeror provide a disclosure statement?

In the context of RFP Section K.16.2., Volume V (Responsibility Determination) is the appropriate volume.

47 RFP - Section L 140 L.26.2 Format/Structure The Government states, "L.26.2. Exemptions from the stated page limit are as follows: L.26.2.1. Certifications and Warrantees." This is the only mention of Certifications and Warantees. In which volume should the offeror provide this information? What does this include?

This would apply at the task order level, as certain types of equipment and other items will require certifications and warrantees. In an actual task order where these were required, they would go in Volume I.

48 RFP - Section L 140 L.26.2 Format/Structure The Government states, "L.26.2. Exemptions from the stated page limit are as follows: L.26.2.2. Glossaries of Abbreviations and Acronyms." Would the Government like the Glossaries of Abbreviations and Acronyms to be included as an attachment at the back of the volume (vice the front matter) as they do not count toward the page count? This will ensure a proper, sequential page count.

Offeror should refer to L.28 for Proposal Organization.

49 RFP - Section L 140 L.27.1 Format/Structure The Government states, "L.27.1. Title page: Each volume shall contain a Title Page…" Does the Title Page count toward the page limit?

No. Offeror should refer to RFP amendment Section L.26.2 for exceptions to the page limit.

50 RFP - Section L 140 L.27.2 Format/Structure The Government states, "Team List: Each volume, except Volume IV, shall contain a list of teaming partners (which includes significant/critical subcontractors) applicable to this IDIQ proposal submission." What constitutes a significant/critical subcontractor?

See RFP Section L 33.1.1.5 and below for details:

Note: “Significant/Critical” are characterized as being deemed vital to the overall success of the requirement, as it relates to the Technical Approach (Factor 1) and Management Approach (Factor 2) and subfactors. While past performance experience is only requested for significant/ critical subcontractors proposed to perform critical portions of the efforts outlined in this solicitation, for the purposes of evaluating past performance; the Government reserves the right to review all subcontractors past performance proposed by each Offeror in response to this RFP."

51 RFP - Section L 141 L.27.3 Format/Structure The Government states, "Table of Contents: Each volume, except Volume IV, shall contain a detailed table of contents to delineate the subparagraphs within that volume." Does the Table of Contents count toward the page limitation?

Yes. Offeror should refer to L.26.2 for exceptions to the page limit.

52 RFP - Section L 141 L.27.4 Format/Structure The Government states, "Tables and Figures: Each volume, except Volume IV, shall contain an indexed list of tables and figures (if applicable)." Does the List of Tables and Figures count toward the page limitation?

Yes. Offeror should refer to L.26.2 for exceptions to the page limit.

53 RFP - Section L 141 L.27.4 Format/Structure The Government states, "Tables and Figures: Each volume, except Volume IV, shall contain an indexed list of tables and figures (if applicable)." L.28.4 includes a "List of Tables and Figures" for Volume IV. Would the Government like us to include a List of Tables and Figures in Volume IV?

No. Offeror should reference L.27.4 and only include a List of Tables and Figures if applicable.

54 RFP - Section L 141 L.27.5 Format/Structure The Government states, "Glossary of Abbreviations and Acronyms: Each volume, except Volume IV, shall contain a glossary of all abbreviations and acronyms used with an explanation for each." If this does not count toward the page limitation, may we move it to the back of the volume as an attachment to ensure an accurate page count?

Offeror should refer to L.28 for Proposal Organization.

55 RFP - Section L 141 L.28.2.6.4 Format/Structure The Government states the following is required in Volume II - Management Approach: "Sub-Factor 4: Subcontracting Plan (large business Offerors only) (IDIQ Level)." Does the subcontracting plan count toward the page limitation, as these are lengthy plans?

Yes. Offeror should refer to L.26.2 for exceptions to the page limit.

56 RFP - Section L 142 L.29.3 Format/Structure The Government states, "The font shall be Calibri with one exception – Arial may be used for tables, figures and graphics.

The font size for tables and figures and any other type of inserts can be no smaller than 10-point. The font size for any graphics as it appears on the printed page can be no smaller than 10-point."

May we use Arial, 10-point font for the table/figure/graphic numbers, titles, and action captions (all pertaining to the visual)?

Yes. Please see the amended RFP Section L.29.3.

57 RFP - Section L 142 L.29.6 Format/Structure The Government states, "Unless already established in the Pricing Tables, margins shall be one-inch at top/bottom and left/right of the page and pages may not be reduced form.

Headers and footers are allowed in the margins and their font size can be no smaller than 10-point." Does the one-inch margins and header/footer requirements apply to all volumes?

Offeror should refer to L.29.1, specifically "Following page size, layout and font requirements apply to Volume I – Technical Approach, Volume II – Management Approach, Volume III – Past Performance, and Volume V – Responsibility Determination."

58 RFP - Section L 144 L.31.3.1.5.5 Vol I - Tech Approach (Fctr 1) The Government states, "Note 1: The Contractor’s Sample Task Order Proposal shall include resumes for each of the Key Personnel Positions listed in the Sample Task Order. Resume templates are provided in Appendix A of the Sample Task Order." Do the resumes count toward the page limitation?

See question 18

59 RFP - Section L 147 L.32.5.2.2.1 Vol II - Mgmt Approach (Fctr 2The Government states, "An organizational chart showing each individual (name and position) on the Offeror’s team with clear lines of communication between the Offeror’s team and the Government for timely problem identification, mitigation, and resolution." For which positions are names required? Is this referring to our internal personnel and the key personnel (i.e., IDIQ Program Manager CONUS)?

Names are required for all individual positions listed in the offeror's proposed organizational chart. The IDIQ Program Manager CONUS must be listed by name on the organizational chart.

60 RFP - Section L 149-150 L.32.5.4.1 Vol II - Mgmt Approach (Fctr 2The Government states, "Offerors shall submit a fully completed Department of State Small Business Subcontracting Plan." Is there a template for the Department of State Small Business Subcontracting Plan?

This is up to the offeror on how they want to present this information in accordance to L.32.5.4.1.

61 RFP - Section L 150 L.33 Vol III - Past Perf (Fctr 3) May offerors use 10-point, Arial font for past performance narratives in tables?

Yes. Offeror should refer to L.29.3

62 RFP - Section L 150 L.33.1.1.1 Vol III - Past Perf (Fctr 3) The Government states, "To be considered recent, performance shall be within the past four years from the date of issuance of this solicitation. If any part of the performance falls within the above time, the effort in its entirety may be evaluated for past performance." Does this mean that if we are using an IDIQ with several Task Orders, as long as at least one of the Task Orders falls within the last four years, all Task Orders under the IDIQ will be evaluated?

Yes, as long as the past performance is provided as the IDIQ contract and not the individual task orders.

63 RFP - Section L 151 L.33.1.1.5 Vol III - Past Perf (Fctr 3) The Government states, "Note: 'Significant/Critical' are characterized as being deemed vital to the overall success of the requirement, as it relates to the Technical Approach (Factor 1) and Management Approach (Factor 2) and subfactors." Does this mean that all small businesses in our Small Business Subcontracting Plan are deemed significant/critical subcontractors?

No. See question 50 for additional context.

64 RFP - Section L L.34.3.20 Vol IV - Price Proposal (Fctr 4) The Government states, "Additionally, a non-small-business offeror shall review and complete FAR 52.230-7 (Proposal Disclosure – Cost Accounting Practice Changes), which is in paragraph K.10." In which volume shall the offeror include this information (i.e., Narrative or Supporting Information)?

Responses to Section K provisions shall be submitted in Volume V (Responsibility Determination).

65 RFP - Section L 162 L.35.1.1 Vol V - Resp Det (Fctr 5) The Government states, "Furthermore, the Government will make its determination of Offeror responsibility in accordance with FAR subpart 9.1 (Responsible Prospective Offerors) by using information provided in the Business Volume and information available from other sources." Does the Government mean Responsibility Determination (vice Business Volume)?

Yes. Business Volume replaced with Responsibility Determination Volume. Please see the amended RFP.

66 RFP - Section L 162 L.35.2.1 Vol V - Resp Det (Fctr 5) The Government states, "The Offeror shall acknowledge all amendments either by signing and returning the SF30 (or by acknowledging the amendments in Block 14 of the SF33)." To confirm, the Offeror is not required to submit each signed amendment (SF30s). Is that correct?

Confirmed. The Offeror can either sign all the SF-30 amendments OR fill in the 1st page of SF 33 acknowledging all the amendments.

67 RFP - Section L 163 L.35.3.3 Vol V - Resp Det (Fctr 5) The Government is requesting the following: Income (profit-loss) Statement, Balance Sheet, Cash Flow Statement, Statement of Retained Earnings, and line-of-credit letter. Can the offeror submit these each as separate PDFs outside of the main MS Word volume? (If we include the PDFs as images in the main document, it will dramatically increase the file size.)

The offeror should submit their proposal following the format identified in L.29

68 RFP - Section M 174 M.12 Vol II - Mgmt Approach (Fctr 2Sections L and M do not align for Volume II - Management Approach. The Government is evaluating several requirements that were not included in Section L. Please advise.

See question 9

69 RFP - Section M 174 M.12.1.1.2 Vol II - Mgmt Approach (Fctr 2The Government states, "M.12.1.1.2. Staffing/Personnel Plan (IDIQ Level) – The Government shall evaluate the Offeror’s proposed Staffing/Personnel Plan to determine whether the offerors experience is commensurate with the requirements of a contract of similar:

M.12.1.1.2.1. Scope, magnitude and complexity of the efforts, M.12.1.1.2.2. Relevance to the Scope in Section C.

M.12.1.1.2.3. Extent to which performance measures and service level metrics were applied to specific program objectives, and the actual results achieved against those measures.

M.12.1.1.2.4. How the Offeror’s past experience demonstrates their capability and capacity to deliver high quality service and solutions in a performance-based environment." These evaluation criteria do not seem to relate to Staffing/Personnel Plan. Please advise.

The government will evaluate the following based on the Staffing/Personnel Plan (IDIQ Level) in accordance with the instructions in L.32.5.1.

70 RFP - Section M 175 M.12.1.1.6 Vol II - Mgmt Approach (Fctr 2The Government states, "The Government shall evaluate the Offeror’s detailed staffing plan detailing how all OCONUS Personnel will be deployed within 60 days from the date of contract/task order awards, details on proposed staffing reserve capacity (e.g., bench), including how the Offeror will maintain that capacity." Section L.32.5.1.5 states 30 days. Please clarify.

See question 10

71 RFP - Section M 177 M.12.1.3.1.3Vol II - Mgmt Approach (Fctr 2The Government states, "The Offeror will be evaluated on the extent to which the technical approach addresses notification of issues affecting contract performance, contract impact, proposed mitigation, and provide for contractor self-oversight."

Is this supposed to read "management approach"?

Confirmed. Section M.12.1.3.1.3 changed to "management"

72 Attach 10 - Sample Task Order 3 1.5 Site Location/Conditions The Government states, "This is a non-personal services task order to provide support services in the coastal East Africa and Balkans geographic regions." Section C.2.1 and M.14.6.3 mention Sub-Saharan Africa. Please provide clarification on the place of performance. Which countries are considered coastal East Africa? Is the offeror to name a specific country in the proposal?

See question 16

73 RFP - Section C 43 C.6.4 Logistics The Government states, "C.6.4.1.9 Provision of portable water."

Please clarify if this should instead read, "C.6.4.1.9 Provision of potable water."

Confirmed. Section 6.4.1.9 changed to "potable"

74 Attach 10 - Sample Task Order 7 5.1 Sample Task Order Section 5.1. states, "Senior Logistics Advisor (Organizational Level) – shall carry out all assigned tasks in the coastal East Africa geographic region. Note: This is a hypothetical Task Order for IDIQ evaluation purposes, no U.S. Embassies or foreign governments should be contacted."

Will the USG please clarify whether Offerors are to select a specific country in the referenced geographic region, or whether the Offeror's proposal response should be generic and applicable to any country within the stated region?

See Question 16

75 Attach 10 - Sample Task Order 7 5.2 Sample Task Order Section 5.2 states, "Cybersecurity Advisor (Executive Level) – shall carry out all assigned tasks in the Balkans geographic region. Note: This is a hypothetical Task Order for IDIQ evaluation purposes, no U.S. Embassies or foreign governments should be contacted."

Will the USG please clarify whether Offerors are to select a specific country in the referenced geographic region, or whether the Offeror's proposal response should be generic and applicable to any country within the stated region?

See Question 16

76 RFP - Section L 156 L.34.3.8 and Vol IV - Price Proposal (Fctr 4) The Offeror is unable to reference paragraph L.34.2.39. See question 14

77 Attach 10 - Sample Task Order 7 and 9 8.1; 9.3.2.8 Sample Task Order Section 8.1 of the STO indicates this Key Personnel position must possess a security clearance at the Top Secret level. Section

9.3.2.8. states "Demonstrated fluency (spoken and written) in English language, when such is not the native language, including experience summarizing complex technical and programmatic issues in a concise manner for the U.S.

government. Provision of Certification in English language through industry recognized provider (e.g., Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), International English Language Testing System (IELTS), etc.) is required."

Would the Government please confirm that (in accordance with Section L.34.3.23) this position is intended to be for a United States citizen, resident alien, or an individual with permits showing authorization to work in the United States?

The Government confirms that, in accordance with Section L.34.3.23, Key Personnel position requiring a Top Secret security clearance must be filled by an United States citizen, resident alien, or an individual with appropriate permits authorizing work in appropriate permits authorizing work in the United States. Additionally, candidates must meet all other qualifications outlined in the solicitation, including security clearance and language proficiency requirements.

78 RFP - Section B 13 B.2 Contract Terms Given that historically almost all of the TOs are under 3 FTE, can the Government provide estimated percentage of Task Orders that would fall under SDVOSB/WOSB versus full and open? We are trying to understand the utilization of large businesses under this ID/IQ.

No, the Government cannot provide an estimated percentage because order competition depends on various factors, including evolving requirements, statutory requirements, and SDVOSB/WOSB participation at the time of task order solicitation.

79 RFP - Section B 14 B.2.5, B.2.6, Contract Terms What is the rough number of FTEs anticipated per task order on F&O/U?

This information will be provided at the task order level

80 RFP - Section B 22 B.7.11.5 Contract Terms In previous RFP, USG requested cost benefit analysis when requesting approval for third-party private visa procurement services - will a cost benefit analysis be required for this iteration of contract if Contractor uses third-party service?

Yes. Please see the amended RFP Section B.7.11.5.

81 RFP - Section C Attach 4 - NTE Equip Prices 43 C.6.3.1.4, C. Equipment/Vehicles C.6.3.1.4, C.6.3.1.5, and C.6.3.1.7 call for some equipment (copiers, cell phones, digital cameras, VHF and HF communications, interpretation equipment, etc.) that are not listed in the Pricing Table 4 nor in Attachment 3. Will the RFP be amended to include them or should we provide pricing only for the items listed in the table?

Please provide pricing only for the items listed in Pricing Table 4.

On row 47 in Pricing Table 4, the Government specified an estimated ODC dollar amount per period, which is used for evaluation purposes only. Please see RFP Section M.15.3. All other allowable ODCs will be processed at the task order level.

82 RFP - Section C Attach 3 - Equip Specifications 43 C.6.3.1.6 Equipment/Vehicles C.6.3.1.6. refers to “Regular connectivity to phone and internet services”. For the satellite phones, there are several service plans to work with and a range of prices. Or does this clause pertain only to cellphones?

It is up to each offeror to determine the most appropriate communication systems to provide for each specific task order that meet those task order requirements.

83 RFP - Section C 43 C.6.5.1 Logistics Where would the containerized shelter have to be located;

partner nation territory? Water/Utilities/Internet supply for these shelters? Are these the kinds we will also have to dissassemble? How advanced will this possible IT Infrastructure have to be?

Per the instructions in Section C.6.5.1, these requirements will be specified at the task order level.

84 RFP - Section C 44 C.6.6. Logistics Should translation/interpretation services be anticipated in all future Task Order proposals?

This will be specified at the task order level

85 RFP - Section H 91 H.20.2. Logistics Can the Government explain what kind of food (MRE's, daily meals,etc) should be accounted for?

This will be specified at the task order level

86 RFP - Section L 140 L.26.2 Page Count/Limit Will the government consider excluding resumes from page count, given the importance of demonstrating key personel qualifications?

See question 18

87 RFP - Section L 140 L.26.2.1. L.26.2.1. Certifications and Warrantees. Can the Government clarify what this is?

See Question 47.

88 RFP - Section L 145 L.31.3.2.2.3 Site Location/Conditions RFP states that Offeror should provide potential risks/problems in operating in the Geographic Region and Detailed Approach to mitigate Risks. Can the Government clarify if there is one region Offeror should refer to, i.e. based on the regions listed in the sample task order or are there other specific regions the Government would like the Offeror to provide input on?

Changed. L.31.3.2.2.3 updated to "austere regions" vice specific geographic locations.

89 RFP - Section L 146 L.32.5 Vol II - Mgmt Approach (Fctr 2The RFP states: The Offer's proposal Management Approach shall include the following five sub-factors; however there are only 4 if you include the small business plan listed. Can the government clarify if there are indeed 5 sub-factors or only 3-4?

See Question 9.

90 RFP - Section L 146 L.32.5.1.5 Vol II - Mgmt Approach (Fctr 2L.32.1.5.5 States the following: A detailed staffing plan explaining how all OCONUS Personnel will be deployed within 30 days from the date of contract award, details on proposed staffing reserve capacity (i.e., bench), including how the Offeror will maintain that capacity.

M.12.1.1.6. states the following: The Government shall evaluate the Offeror’s detailed staffing plan detailing how all OCONUS Personnel will be deployed within 60 days from the date of contract/task order awards, details on proposed staffing reserve capacity (e.g., bench), including how the Offeror will maintain that capacity.

Can the Government please clarify the # of days for deployment on all OCONUS personnel, and if this applies to all Task Orders?

See Question 10.

91 RFP - Section L 148 L.32.5.2.2.4. Vol II - Mgmt Approach (Fctr 2RFP States: Experience in recruiting, retaining, training, and managing a “bench” of highly qualified staff capable of meeting evolving primary and ad hoc contract requirements quickly in Africa. Can the government clarify experience should refer to only Africa experience?

Section L.32.5.2.2.4 changed to "throughout OCONUS"

92 RFP - Section L 151 L.33 Vol III - Past Perf (Fctr 3) In order to demonstrate contract relevancy, confirming that a Prime Offeror may submit three relevant Task Order contracts to satisfy the three recent and relevant contract examples of previous experience as required in Section L.33.1.1.4 as opposed to submitting three IDIQs?

Use of the word "contract" in Section L.33.1.1.4 is not limited in meaning to "IDIQ contract". It refers to all acquisition types.

93 RFP - Section L 151 L.33. Vol III - Past Perf (Fctr 3) Note section states the following: “Significant/Critical” are characterized as being deemed vital to the overall success of the requirement, as it relates to the Technical Approach (Factor 1) and Management Approach (Factor 2) and subfactors.

What defines being deemed vital to the overall success of the requirement, as it relates to the Technical and Management Approach?

See Question 50.

94 RFP - Section L 151 L..33.1.1.5. Vol III - Past Perf (Fctr 3) L.33.1.1.5. states Contract examples should only be submitted for subcontractors performing critical portions of the efforts outlined in this solicitation for the evaluation of past performance.

What defines critical portions of the efforts?

See Question 50.

95 RFP - Section L 155 Note 1 Vol IV - Price Proposal (Fctr 4) Note 1 states that Each file gathered or prepared in response to paragraphs L.34.2.38. through L.34.2.40 shall be submitted as a separate file and not assembled into one file . There is no L.34.2.38-40. Please confirm this instead refers to Section L34.3.38-40.

The amended RFP contains the correct references.

96 RFP - Section L 155 1 Vol IV - Price Proposal (Fctr 4) The RFP states: The offeror shall assume that the Government will not incorporate its price proposal, including any assumptions and exceptions, into any resulting IDIQ contract.

Please clarify what then will be used as our IDIQ rates?

Please see RFP Section M.15.4., which reads in part, "...the NTE fully-loaded hourly labor rates and NTE unit prices proposed in Pricing Table 4 will be used as the awarded pricing information if award is made without discussions, or will be used as the basis of negotiation if award is made with discussions."

97 Attach 3 - Equip Specifications Equipment/Vehicles Would the helmets require any additional accessories, such as mounts/rails? Is there a preference between (Mid-cut, High cut)?

Equipment specifications will be provided at the task order level.

98 Attach 3 - Equip Specifications Equipment/Vehicles For sat phone coverage, is there a minimum or maximum usage requirement per month or annual?

See Question 97

99 Attach 3 - Equip Specifications Equipment/Vehicles Will there be an allowance for overages on the sat phone service?

See Question 97

100 Attach 3 - Equip Specifications Equipment/Vehicles Should the first aid kit be ANSI compliant? See Question 97 101 Attach 3 - Equip Specifications Equipment/Vehicles Is the preferred First Aid kit to be in a hand carry pack or backpack?

See Question 97

102 Attach 3 - Equip Specifications Equipment/Vehicles Are there any color restrictions for the first aid kit pack? See Question 97 103 Attach 3 - Equip Specifications Equipment/Vehicles Should the first aid kit include items for trauma or more advanced emergency aid?

See Question 97

104 Attach 3 - Equip Specifications Equipment/Vehicles Are there any medications that should not be included (such as pain killers, or antibiotics, etc.) in the first aid kit?

No. No medications will be provided by the vendor as issued commodities.

105 Attach 3 - Equip Specifications Equipment/Vehicles The GPS devices requested with Worldwide basemap come preloaded with North America map. All the other maps can be downloaded or on an SD card but they are available by continent. Would you like them all to be loaded with all the continents or can we provide them with the one from Africa in addition the the North America?

See Question 97

106 Attach 3 - Equip Specifications Equipment/Vehicles For the IT equipment, since several different power outlet formats are used across Africa and we are not sure which country we will specifically service, is it acceptable to provide international adapters?

See Question 97

107 Attach 3 - Equip Specifications Equipment/Vehicles Should the laptop be provided with a hard shell case? See Question 97 108 Attach 3 - Equip Specifications Equipment/Vehicles Is the quantity listed the number of vehicles needed? If yes, should all 50 vehicles under year 1 be available at the beginning of the contract?

See Question 97

109 Attach 3 - Equip Specifications Equipment/Vehicles What is the expected duration (lease length) for each vehicle? See Question 97

110 Attach 3 - Equip Specifications Equipment/Vehicles Will contracted drivers be required as stipulated in C.6.3.1.5? See Question 97

111 Attach 3 - Equip Specifications Equipment/Vehicles Is it expected that the vehicles be delivered to end user or will they be able to pick-up for regional leasing agents?

See Question 97

112 Attach 3 - Equip Specifications Equipment/Vehicles Who is responsible for providing proof of insurance for the vehicle leases? the driver, their employer, or the agency that is signing the lease agreement?

See Question 97

113 Attach 10 - Sample Task Order 1, 7 5.1 Sample Task Order On the sample task order, title page says "Coastal Horn of Africa"; however Section 5.1. refers to "coastal East Africa geographic region", can the USG clarify which countries within this region as different organizations define the countries within these regions differently.

The language now reflects 'Coastal East Africa'. Please see the amended RFP title page and Section 5.1.

114 Attach 10 - Sample Task Order 7 5.1 and 5.2 Sample Task Order Attachment 10 Sample Task Order Section 5 Place of Performance states Senior Logistics Advisor shall carry out tasks in the coast East Africa geographic region and Cybersecurity Advisor shall carry out all assigned tasks in the Balkans geographic region. Can the government confirm if Offeror may pick specific countries within these regions to highlight task execution, challenges, and risks as well as experience and qualifications?

See Question 16

115 Attach 10 - Sample Task Order 8 8.5 Sample Task Order The Sample Task Order States: No later than 30 calendar days after task order award, the Contractor shall furnish to the COR proof of the candidate advisors’ medical clearance equivalent to Department of State Level 1 as determined by a licensed healthcare practitioner. The candidate shall undergo a medical assessment that examines their physical and mental fitness to perform the duties of a logistics advisor, including the ability to lift 50 pounds and work in sub-Saharan climates without climate control. If the candidate assessment results in failure, the contractor shall be responsible for providing a replacement at no additional cost to the U.S. government. Is medical clearance required for all positions globally? This states for work in sub- Saharan climates...

See Question 97

116 Attach 10 - Sample Task Order 11 10 Deliverables Will the Government be able to provide examples/samples of SITREPs?

See Question 41

117 RFP - Section C 40 C.2.3.1.6.2.7Qualifications Please confirm that Coursera certification course MS 365 Office and Power Platform Specialization will meet the qualification requirement "Provision of Certification in MS Office through industry recognized provider (e.g., Certiport, Coursera, etc.)is required." If this certification does not satisfy the requirement and qualifications, would the government please clarify what Coursera certification course of instruction does?

Confirmed. Furthermore, the government will verify certifications legitimacy by checking if the issuing body is recognized within the industry.

118 RFP - Section C General Contract Terms Is it a recompete ?