RFQ No. 19MX53-21-Q-0004 for Interpretation Services.pdf

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Section 1 - The Schedules

SF 1449 cover sheet

Continuation To SF-1449, RFQ Number 19MX53-21-Q-0004, Prices, Block 23

Continuation To SF-1449, RFQ Number 19MX53-21-Q-0004, Schedule Of

Supplies/Services, Block 20 Description/Specifications/Work Statement

Attachments o Attachment 1 – Payment Registration Forms - Pesos o Attachment 2 – Payment Registration Forms – U.S. dollars o Attachment 3 – Payment Registration Forms – USD in Mexican Bank o Attachment 4 – How to Obtain a DUNS Number and register to SAM o Attachment 5 – Delivery/Task Order Form Sample

Section 2 - Contract Clauses

Contract Clauses

Addendum to Contract Clauses - FAR and DOSAR Clauses not Prescribed in Part 12

Section 3 - Solicitation Provisions

Solicitation Provisions

Addendum to Solicitation Provisions - FAR and DOSAR Provisions not Prescribed in

Part 12

Section 4 - Evaluation Factors

Evaluation Factors

Addendum to Evaluation Factors - FAR and DOSAR Provisions not Prescribed in

Part 12

Section 5 - Representations and Certifications

Offeror Representations and Certifications

Addendum to Offeror Representations and Certifications - FAR and DOSAR

Provisions not Prescribed in Part 12

RFQ NO. 19MX53-21-Q-0004

SECTION 1 - THE SCHEDULE

CONTINUATION TO SF-1449

PRICES, BLOCK 23

JAMES ZADROGA 9/11 VICTIMS HEALTH AND COMPENSATION ACT

OF 2010 NOTICE: UNLESS A WAIVER OR EXCEPTION APPLIES,

PAYMENTS SUBSEQUENT TO THIS PROCUREMENT ARE SUBJECT TO

AN EXCISE TAX OF 2% PERSUANT TO 26 U.S.C. 5000C.

1. Scope of Services

1.1. General

The U.S. Embassy in Mexico City has a requirement for interpretation services in support of

U.S. agencies and sub-agencies supported by the Embassy. The interpretation services will include both English to Spanish and Spanish to English interpretation, employing different interpretation techniques. Requirements will also include use of both standard and non-standard terminology, will be required at both formal and informal venues, and will encompass a wide range of subject matters.

1.2. Type of Contract

This is a multiple award indefinite-delivery, indefinite-quantity type contract, under which firm-fixed price task orders will be issued for services, see attachment 5.

1.3. Period of Performance

The performance period under this contract will commence on the date listed in the Notice to

Proceed and continue for twelve months with four (4) one-year options for renewal.

1.4 Minimum and Maximum Amounts

During the Base Year of the Contract, and during any option year that might be exercised, the

U.S. Government shall place orders totaling a minimum of $500.00 U.S. dollars. The amount of all orders shall not exceed $320,000.00 U.S. dollars per option year.

The maximum annual amount stated above ($320,000.00 U.S. dollars) is the maximum aggregate dollar value of all task orders awarded to all contractors during any one-year period. This ceiling is not being subdivided equally amongst the number of contracts, nor is it being multiplied by the number of contracts.

1.5. Pricing

The fixed prices established below for the Base Year and Option Years for interpretation services and the associated equipment shall apply to individual task orders issued under the contract. The fixed prices shall include all direct and indirect costs, including labor, materials, overhead, general and administrative expenses, profit, and preparation days. Any costs not separately priced shall be considered to be included in the overhead and other indirect costs.

1.5.1. Offers and Payment for U.S. Firms

U.S. firms are eligible to be paid in U.S. dollars. U.S. firms desiring to be paid in U.S. dollars should submit their offer in U.S. dollars. A U.S. firm is defined as a company which operates as a corporation incorporated under the laws of a state within the United States.

1.5.2. Offers and Payment for Local or Foreign Firms

Any firm that is not a U.S. firm is a foreign firm. Any local or foreign firm that does not meet the definition of a U.S. firm shall submit its prices and receive payment in local currency unless the foreign or local firm has a U.S. dollar bank account in Mexico.

1.5.3. Value Added Tax

Value Added Tax (VAT) for offers in Pesos, Mexican currency, is not included in line item rates.

Instead, it will be priced as a separate amount in the contract and on the Invoices. Local law dictates the portion of the contract price that is subject to VAT; this percentage is multiplied only against that portion.

VAT shall not be included in the CLIN rates or Invoices for U.S. firms as this is not applicable to

U.S. based vendors.

1.6. Other Direct Costs

1.6.1. General

Other Direct Costs (ODCs) will be addressed at the task order level, and are not considered as being included in the fixed prices established in Section 1.5. above. The contractor will be reiumbursed for any allowable ODCs associated with the performance of services under a specific task order. In each task order proposal, the contractor shall include the types and estimated amount(s) of ODCs associated with the specific task order requirements (e.g., transportation, lodging, etc.).

1.6.2. Transportation and Lodging

The Contractor shall be responsible for transportation arrangements (including costs) to and from all locations and events, except in cases where the USG Government notifies the contractor that transportation will be provided.

For locations/events that may require lodging, the Contractor shall be responsible for lodging arrangements (including costs), except in cases where the USG notifies the contractor that lodging will be provided.

Note: Transportation or lodging expenses will not apply when services are provided in Mexico

City (Ciudad de Mexico) or in the State of Mexico (Estado de Mexico).

1.7. Cancellation

1.7.1. Within Mexico City and/or State of Mexico

The contractor may seek reimbursement of costs directly related to the cancellation of task orders with less than 24 hours’ notice under the provisions of clause 52.212-4, Contract Terms and

Conditions—Commercial Items (OCT 2018), paragraph (1), Termination for the Government's convenience.

1.7.2. Outside Mexico City and/or State of Mexico

The contractor may seek reimbursement of costs directly related to the cancellation of task orders with less than 48 hours’ notice under the provisions of clause 52.212-4, Contract Terms and

Conditions—Commercial Items (OCT 2003), paragraph (1), Termination for the Government's convenience.

1.8. Emergency Requests

1.8.1. Within Mexico City and/or State of Mexico

When the COR requests interpretation services (including equipment), with less than a twenty-four (24) hour notice, the Contractor may add an emergency service surcharge to the service cost.

1.8.2. Outside Mexico City and/or State of Mexico

When the COR requests interpretation services (including equipment), with less than four (4) business days notice, the Contractor may add an emergency service surcharge to the service cost.

1.9. Base Year

Base Term: Twelve (12) months

As per Subsection 1.5, above, prices are in _____________.

The fixed prices for interpretation services are as follows:

CLIN Description Unit Yearly Estimated

Quantity* Unit Price Total Price

On-site

Interpreter Day 60

Interpreter Hour 60

Virtual or Remote Simultaneous Interpretation

Intepreter Day 130

Interpreter Hour 200

003 Overtime Hour 100

Headsets (25 headsets per set) Day 60

Microphones

Lapel Day 60

Handheld Day 60

006 Body Pack Day 60

Translation Booth

Tabletop Day 60

Full size Day 60

Multichannel Headsets

(each) Day 50

Auditory assistance for interpreter

Technician Fee

On-site Day 60

Virtual Hour 200

011 Emergency Fee Service 20

Subtotal

IVA (16%)

Total for the Base Year *This estimated amount is based on total estimated Government requirements. This means that if more than one award is made, the estimated amount of work awarded under task order(s) to any single contractor will be less than the amount shown.

1.10. First Option Year

Quantity* Unit Price Total Price

On-site

Interpreter Day 65

Interpreter Hour 65

Intepreter Day 130

Interpreter Hour 200

003 Overtime Hour 105

Day 65

Lapel Day 65

Handheld Day 65

006 Body Pack Day 65

Tabletop Day 65

Full size Day 65

Day 55

On-site Day 65

Virtual Hour 200

IVA (16%)

Total for the First Option Year *This estimated amount is based on total estimated Government requirements. This means that if more than one award is made, the estimated amount of work awarded under task order(s) to any single contractor will be less than the amount shown.

1.11. Second Option Year

Quantity* Unit Price Total Price

On-site

Interpreter Day 70

Interpreter Hour 70

Intepreter Day 135

Interpreter Hour 205

003 Overtime Hour 110

Day 70

Lapel Day 70

Handheld Day 70

006 Body Pack Day 70

Tabletop Day 70

Full size Day 70

On-site Day 70

Virtual Hour 205

IVA (16%)

Total for the Second Option Year *This estimated amount is based on total estimated Government requirements. This means that if more than one award is made, the estimated amount of work awarded under task order(s) to any single contractor will be less than

1.12. Third Option Year

Quantity* Unit Price Total Price

On-site

Interpreter Day 75

Interpreter Hour 75

Intepreter Day 135

Interpreter Hour 205

003 Overtime Hour 115

Day 75

Lapel Day 75

Handheld Day 75

006 Body Pack Day 75

Tabletop Day 75

Full size Day 75

Day 75

On-site Day 75

Virtual Hour 205

IVA (16%)

Total for the Third Option Year *This estimated amount is based on total estimated Government requirements. This means that if more than one award is made, the estimated amount of work awarded under task order(s) to any single contractor will be less than

1.13. Fourth Option Year

Quantity* Unit Price Total Price

On-site

Interpreter Day 80

Interpreter Hour 80

Intepreter Day 140

Interpreter Hour 210

003 Overtime Hour 115

Day 80

Lapel Day 80

Handheld Day 80

006 Body Pack Day 80

Tabletop Day 80

Full size Day 80

Day 80

Technicia Fee

On-site Day 80

Virtual Hour 210

IVA (16%)

Total for the Fourth Option Year *This estimated amount is based on total estimated Government requirements. This means that if more than one award is made, the estimated amount of work awarded under task order(s) to any single contractor will be less than

1.14. Grand Total Price

The grand total price for the base year and the four (4) one-year options to extend is:

Base Year

First Option Year

Second Option Year

Third Option Year

Fourth Option Year

Grand Total

CONTINUATION TO SF-1449,

SCHEDULE OF SUPPLIES/SERVICES, BLOCK 20

DESCRIPTION/SPECIFICATIONS/WORK STATEMENT

1.15. Definitions

“Auditory assistance for interpreter”, also known as portable mute microphone, means a transcevier that reduces interference during two way or one-way communication.

“Calendar Day” means the twenty-four hour period from midnight to midnight. Saturdays, Sundays and all holidays are considered as calendar days.

“COR” means Contracting Officer's Representative; see FAR 52.212-4 Contract Terms and

Conditions – Commercial Items, in Section 2.

“CLIN” means Contract Line Item.

“Government” means the United States Government unless otherwise stated.

“GTM” means Government Technical Monitor.

“Interpretation Services” means conveying a message from the language of the original speaker, into the language of the listener.

“Ordering Officer” means the Contracting Officer of the Embassy of the United States of

America in Mexico.

“RFTOP” means Request for Task Order Proposal.

“RSI” means Remote Simultaneous Interpretation.

“Services” means the services performed, workmanship, and equipment furnished or utilized in the performance of the services.

1.16. Description

1.16.1. Interpretation Services

The Contractor shall provide Interpretation Services for the United States Embassy in Mexico

City in various venues throughout Mexico City, and the Mexican Republic. Services will require both English to Spanish and Spanish to English interpretation, using simultaneous, consecutive, bilateral, and accompanying/escorting interpretation techniques. Services will also be required in both structured and unstructured settings, and some requirements will involve high level officials and difficult or sensitive assignments. Interpretation services will employ a wide range of standard and non-standard terminology, depending on specific requirements, often requiring the

Contractor to perform timely analysis in order to properly understand the substance of the words and information to be interpreted. The contractor shall also take into account the government, history, and culture of the United States and Mexico, as well as the cultural differences and nuances between the languages. Services shall be provided with clarity, accuracy, and professional, poised delivery, and when necessary the contractor shall be able to readily adapt to the demands of diplomatic protocol, protective security requirements, and similar considerations.

The number of interpreters to be provided for any given requirement will vary, depending on the specific requirement and setting (structured or unstructured). Examples of typical requirements and/or types of interpretation include the following:

Bilateral/Informal Setting: consecutive interpreting conducted for smaller groups. In bilateral interpreting, the interpreter generally interprets between two and 4 people maximum.

Accompanying/escorting: Accompnaying or escorting local or U.S. visitors/officers and providing interpretation services outside a meeting or in a formal meeting. One or two intrepreters will be required.

Consecutive: the interpreter listens to the source-language of one or multiple speakers and, after a sentence or a part of the speech, reproduces the speech in the target language for the audience. One or two intrepreters will be required. This type of interpretation may require equipment or not.

Simultaneous: performed after hearing only a few words spoken in one language, is able to speak what is being said to a target audience or individual in another language and do so flawlessly during an ongoing dialogue. One or two intrepreters will be required. This types of interpretation will mostly require equipment.

Virtual or Remote Simultaneous: Eliminates the need for on-site interpreters and equipment. One or two intrepreters will be required.

In addition to the above example requirements, which can generally be planned and scheduled in advance, some services will be required on short notice. One example may be an unplanned visit by foreign dignitaries with limited advance notice, where interpretation services are required for a briefing to be provided to the visiting dignitaries.

The above represents examples of typical requirements/ types of interpretation, with actual requirements to be specified at the task order level.

1.16.2. On-site Interpreters

1.16.2.1 Daily Rate

Minimum of two (2) interpreters required and daily rate shall be charged per interpreter. The daily rate above shall be charged for any consecutive 9-hour (includes 1-hour break) within a calenday day. For services beyond a 9-hour period, the Contractor is entitled to the Overtime

Hourly rate pricing per interpreter.

1.16.2.2. Hourly Rate

One interpreter is required and the hourly rate shall be charged per interpreter. The hourly rate above shall be charged for any consecutive 3-hour within a calendar day. For services beyond a

3-hour period, the Contractor shall provide another interpreter or is entitled to the Overtime

Interpreters regular working shifts are 3-hour shifts.

1.16.2.3. Dress Code

1.16.2.3.1. General

The dress attire shall be business formal unless instructed otherwise.

16.2.3.2. Trainings

The Contractor shall comply with the accepted dress code in accordance with the type of training being delivered. The dress attire for the first and last day of each training event (classroom setting) will be business formal. For the other days the dress code will be business casual.

For tactical and law enforcement events, the dress code shall be casual/tactical clothing and footwear appropriate to indoor or outdoor environments. The Contractor shall be required to wear bullet proof vests and eye/ear protection when on firing ranges.

Specific dress code requirements will be addressed at the task order level.

1.16.2.4. Contractor Furnished Material/Equipment

1.16.2.4.1. General

The Contractor shall provide all required equipment and materials for all types of interpretation services. The equipment and materials to be provided include, but are not limited to, the following:

Headset, to include wireless receiver, wireless earpiece

Microphones (to be used by the Instructor)

Body-Pack, to include transmitters (for tactical events)

Translation Booths, to include transmitters

Auditory assistance for interpreter

Multichannel headsets

The Contractor shall provide all the additional wiring, adapters, etc., related to or required without additional costs to the U.S.G. The equipment provided shall be of good quality and well maintained to ensure that services are not disrupted or diminished in quality due to poor quality and/or poor performing equipment.

The specific equipment requirements, including quantities, will be specified at the task order level. Given that most interpretation assignments are unique in nature, the Contractor , as expertise, shall suggest and/or recommend the appropriate equipment and quantities required to perform successfully.

1.16.2.5. On-Site Technician

A technician shall be required when equipment is requested to set up the equipment, to support on the distribution and collection of headsets and ensure services are not disrupted. A daily rate shall be charged per technician. Large events may require two or more technicians.

1.16.2.5.1. Daily Rate for Equipment and Technician

The daily rate above shall be charged for any consecutive 9-hour within a calenday day. The

Contractor is not entitled to the Overtime Hourly rate for any services beyond 9-hour period.

1.16.2.6. Government Furnished Property

When required, the Government will make the following property available to the Contractor as

Government Furnished Property (GFP):

Bullet proof vests

Ear and eye protection

Other safety equipment as may be necessary

1.16.3. Virtual or Remote Simultaneous Interpretation

1.16.3.1. Daily Rate

Minimum of two (2) interpreters required and daily rate shall be charged per interpreter. The daily rate above shall be charged for any consecutive 9-hour (includes 1-hour break) within a calenday day. For services beyond a 9-hour period, the Contractor is entitled to the Overtime

1.16.3.2. Hourly Rate

One interpreter is required and the hourly rate shall be charged per interpreter. The hourly rate above shall be charged for any consecutive 3-hour within a calendar day. For services beyond a

3-hour period, the Contractor is entitled to the Overtime Hourly rate pricing per interpreter or shall provide another interpreter and charge daily rate.

Interpreters regular working shifts are 3-hour shifts.

1.16.3.3. Contractor Material/Equipment for RSI

The Contractor shall possess all the required equipment and materials for this type of interpretation service. The equipment and materials shall include, but are not limited to, the following:

Recent model computer (Mac 2018 or newer / PC with Core i5 processor minimum or equal)

4 GB Ram (min)

Dedicated Internet connection via Ethernet cable (not Wifi) and minimum network speed of 40 Mbps

Professional USB Microphone such as Blue Yeti, Shure Digital, AKG, Rode NT or equal. External sound cards or adapters are not be acceptable.

Professional noise cancelling headset (Bose, HarmanKardon, Sennheiser, AKG or equal)

Backup or secondary devices like Tablets, Mobile Internet and UPS systems

1.16.3.4. Virtual Technician

A virtual technician may be required to make sure ensure services are not disrupted. An hourly rate shall be charged per technician. The hourly rate above shall be charged for any consecutive

3-hour within a calendar day. For services beyond a 3-hour period, the Contrator shall charge a daily rate under Technician Fee CLIN. The Contractor is not entitled to the Overtime Hourly rate for any services beyond 9-hour period.

1.16.3.5. Video Communication Platforms

The Contractor shall not provide under this contract any type of video communication platform such as Webex, Google Meet, Zoom, etc.

1.16.4. Logistics

1.16.4.1. Date, Time, and Location

The Contractor shall provide interpretation services on the dates, times and at the locations specified in individual task orders. The U.S.G. shall make an effort in providing all the necessary information and the Contractor shall request additional information required to plan and coorindate the event successfully.

1.16.4.2. Preparation Day

1.16.4.2.1. On-site

Without additional cost the U.S.G., the preparation day shall include visits to the facilities where the event will take place, equipment tests and rehearsals. It is the Contractor’s responsibility to request a preparation day if deemed necessary. This day can be scheduled any day prior to the event.

1.16.4.2.2. Virtual

Without additional costs to the U.S.G., the Contractor shall deliver detailed guidelines or instructions for participants, speakers or organizers to follow in order to perform successfully. It is the Contractor’s responsibility to request and conduct functionality tests if deemed necessary.

Such tests can take place any day prior to the scheduled videoconference.

Due to this new virtual environment, the Contractor shall be attentive of new technological tools, applications, etc. that will facilitate RSI.

1.6.5. Specific Knowledge Areas

Given the breadth of the programs and initiatives the U.S. Embassy supports, interpretation services shall be required for a wide range of subject matters. Although not all inclusive, examples of areas where interpretation services may be required follow:

Security

Security Services (General);

Protection of National

Leaders;

Tactical Teams;

Law Enforcement and

Firearms;

Tactical and Cyber

Forensics;

Computer Technology;

Money Laundering;

Counter-Narcotics; and

Organized Crime.

Science, Health, and

Medicine

Regulation of Medical

Products;

Human Foods;

Animal Feeds;

Tobacco Products;

Food and Drug Quality;

Food Safety;

Public Health;

Epidemiology;

Global Warming, Greenhouse Gas Emissions;

Endangered Species; and

Water Systems.

Economics, Trade, and

Development

Imports and Exports;

Government Regulations;

Infrastructure;

Land Crossings, Ports, and

Airports;

Civil and Military Aviation;

Unconventional Oil and

Gas;

Nuclear Power;

Macroeconomics;

Microeconomics;

Labor Issues, Including

Unions;

Competitiveness; and

Innovation and

Entrepreneurship.

Politics and International

Relations

Political Parties;

Elections, Including

Observers;

Bilateral and Multilateral

Agreements;

United Nations;

Human Rights; and

Trafficking in Persons.

Law

Legal Systems;

Constitutional Reforms;

Citizens’ Rights;

Adversarial Model;

Kidnapping; and

Fugitive Investigations.

Military

Military Terminology, General;

Armed Forces Agreements;

Rules of Engagement;

Materiel;

Military Training and

Cooperation;

Command and Control;

Criminal Analysis and

Investigation;

Military Justice;

Military Intelligence;

Public Affairs;

Information Operations;

Critical Thinking;

Advanced Network

Analysis;

Wheeled Vehicle

Sustainment;

Biometrics Analysis;

Clandestine Laboratories;

Weapons of Mass

Destruction;

Aviation

With the exception of the specialized experience required in Sub-Section 1.17.3.3.2., it is not required that interpreters be subject matter experts in the other areas listed above. However, the contractor shall be capable of adequately preparing to provide services for complex and/or highly technical areas such as those listed above. This, for example, will require the Contractor to conduct the necessary research and analysis required (with short notice on some occasions) to be able to appropriately understand and correctly interpret varying types of subject matter, including the terminology and nuances that may be unique to a specific area of expertise.

In certain cases the contractor shall also be responsible for researching, tracing, analyzing, and defining previously unknown concepts and theories, developing equally sophisticated counterparts that have the equivalent meaning and impact in a different cultural environment.

1.17. Management

1.17.1. Contracting Officer Representative (COR)

1.17.1.1. 652.242-70 Contracting Officer's Representative (COR) (AUG 1999)

(a) The Contracting Officer may designate in writing one or more Government employees, by name or position title, to take action for the Contracting Officer under this contract.

Each designee shall be identified as a Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR). Such designation(s) shall specify the scope and limitations of the authority so delegated;

provided, that the designee shall not change the terms or conditions of the contract, unless the COR is a warranted Contracting Officer and this authority is delegated in the designation.

(b) The temporary COR for this contract is the VCO Travel Assistant.

(End of clause)

1.17.2. Government Technical Monitor (GTM)

The Contracting Officer may appoint an individual(s) to assist the Contracting Officer’s

Representative (COR) in monitoring the contractor’s performance. This individual is called a

Government Technical Monitor (GTM). A GTM may be designated to provide technical monitoring, advice, and assistance, to aid the COR in the monitoring and evaluation of the contractor’s performance.

1.17.3. Contractor’s Project Manager

The Contractor shall designate a Project Manager who shall be the Contractor’s point of contact and delegated authority to lead the project. The incumbent shall be responsible for managing the

Contractor’s workforce under this contract and shall be the Contractor's liaison with the U.S.

Embassy/Consulate. The incumbent shall be available at all times during the performance period of these services to receive and implement orders or special instructions from the Contracting

Officer or Contracting Officer's Representative/Government Technical Monitor and ensure a smooth and effective operation. In the event that the Project Manager is absent, the Contractor shall designate a substitute Project Manager and notify the COR immediately.

The Contractor’s Project Manager designated under this Contract is:

Project Manager:

Telephone Number(s):

E-mail:

Note to Offerors: Please provide a Project Manager.

1.17.3.1. Replacement of the Project Manager after First 90 Days

After the first 90 days, the Contractor may replace the Project Manager if the Contractor determines the change to be necessary. However, prior to making any replacement the contractor shall provide a resume that adequately demonstrates the proposed replacement possesses qualifications comparable to the Project Manager being replaced.

1.17.3.2. COR Approval of Project Manager Replacement

Whenever a Project Manager replacement is requested, the Contractor shall sign the resume of the proposed replacement certifying that the resume is accurate and complete and that the proposed replacement possesses the required qualifications. The COR will notify the Contractor in writing within five (5) calendar days after receipt of the resume whether the proposed replacement is acceptable. If needed, the COR may request additional information if a determination of acceptability cannot be made based on the resume alone. If the COR determines that a proposed replacement is not acceptable, the COR will provide the contractor with the reason that led to this determination. The Contractor will then be required to propose another replacement to the COR for consideration.

1.17.3.3. Contractor’s Interpreters

1.17.3.3.1. General

The Contractor shall provide interpreters that possess a Level 5 Language Advanced Professional

Proficiency in both English and Standard Mexican Spanish. Standard Mexican Spanish refers to the Spanish dialect spoken in Mexico City, rather than dialects spoken in other regions outside of the capital area.

1.17.3.3.2. Specialized Experience

The Contractor shall be capable of providing Interpreters that possess a minimum of two (2) years of specialized experience in providing interpretation services for subjects related to the protection of national leaders, including sufficient knowledge of terminology relating to protection methodologies/techniques, firearms, tactical driving, defensive tactics, sniper techniques, special operations activities and other related law enforcement topics. Additionally, the contractor shall be capable of providing interpreters that possess specialized experience and knowledge in computer terminology, forensics software/techniques, cellular terminology, programming and network administration, public health, legal terminology and regulatory affairs.

1.18. Task Orders

1.18.1. General

Each task order statement of work will include a description of the specific project requirements, including the required services, equipment, and any other required deliverables. All task orders issued shall be subject to the applicable terms and conditions of the IDIQ Contract. All services under this contract shall be ordered through a Task Order Form OF 347 (see attachment 5), issued and signed by the C.O., as the need arises. This includes any modifications to task orders if necessary. The COR or designated GTM shall be responsible of delivering the task orders on behalf of the C.O.

Task Orders under this contract shall contain the following information:

(a) Name of contractor

(b) Contract number

(c) Date of order

(d) Dates for Delivery

(e) CLIN number being ordered and Unit price

(f) Total price

The Contracting Officer may place orders orally, by telephone, by email, or in writing. An e-mail from the COR and/or GTM may be used for an urgent service and will follow with a task order within twenty-four (24) hours.

Task Orders may be issued from the date of contract award, through the end of the contract

Period of Performance. The contractor shall complete all work and services within the period of performance specified in task orders, except that no new task order shall be issued hereunder after the expiration of this contract.

1.18.2. Multiple Award Task Order Procedures for Task Orders that will Include Other

Direct Costs (ODCs)

a) General. If multiple awards are made, the placement of task orders will follow the procedures in FAR 16.505(b). Unless one of the exceptions in FAR 16.505(b)(2) applies, the

Government will request a task order proposal from each contractor, encompassing technical issues (if applicable) and price. Award of the task order will be based on price, technical, and past performance factors. The evaluation criteria to be used for awarding a task order will be stated in the Request for Task Order Proposal (RFTOP).

b) Selection Process. The process for each task order will be as follows:

1. The Government will issue a RFTOP to each contractor. The request will include a statement of work for the specific project, all required deliverables, the project schedule, and any other pertinent information.

2. If required, and necessary to be able to prepare a proposal, the USG will arrange for a site visit.

3. Each firm will submit a task order proposal by the time specified in the RFTOP. The proposal shall be based upon the fixed prices established in Section 1.6 of the IDIQ contract, and shall include any other estimated Other Direct Costs (ODCs).

4. The Government will evaluate the proposals and award a task order based on the selection criteria specified in the RFTOP.

5. In some cases a task order may be awarded without competition. For example, an order issued in the interest of economy and efficiency as a logical follow-on to an earlier task order.

1.18.3. Multiple Award Task Order Procedures for Task Orders that will not Include Other

Direct Costs (ODCs)

a) If more than one contractor has received an award for these services, the following procedures shall govern regarding issuance of individual task orders. No work shall be performed without a task order being issued to the contractor by the Contracting Officer.

b) As the need for services arises, the Government will develop a price estimate with the fixed prices established in contract Section 1.6 (Pricing – Interpretation Services). If the estimate does not exceed U.S. $3,500 (or the equivalent in Mexican Pesos), the Government will follow the procedures in paragraph (c) below. If the estimate exceeds U.S. $3,500 (or the equivalent in Mexican Pesos), the Government will follow the procedures in paragraph (d) below.

c) Orders not exceeding U.S. $3,500 – The Government will select a contractor for issuance of the task order. This decision will be based on the Government's best interests, which may include factors such as estimated price; past performance record; need to meet contractual minimums; or desire to avoid exceeding task order limitations as set forth in

Contract FAR Clause 52.216-19, "Order Limitations".

d) Orders exceeding U.S. $3,500 – Unless one of the exceptions in paragraph (e) below applies, the Government will follow one of the following two scenarios:

1. Selection will be based on a combination of estimated price and past performance;

or

2. If the Contracting Officer can establish which Contractor’s prices will result in the lowest price for the individual task order, the Government will make its award selection based upon the prices set forth in the contract and past performance information gained as a result of contractor performance under this contract.

3. Regardless of whether the procedures in paragraph (1) or (2) above were followed, selection of contractors shall not be protestable to GAO under Subpart 33.1 of the

Federal Acquisition Regulation, except on the grounds that the order increases the scope, period, or maximum value of the contract. However, the Department of State does have an Acquisition Ombudsman who will review complaints by contractors to ensure that all contractors are afforded a fair opportunity to be considered for these task orders, pursuant to the procedures for award of task orders established herein.

e) Exceptions to the procedures in paragraph (d) above:

1. The agency need for the required services is of such urgency that providing such competitive opportunity would result in unacceptable delays;

2. The order should be issued on a sole-source basis in the interest of economy and efficiency as a logical follow-on to an order already issued under the contract, provided that all awardees were given a fair opportunity to be considered for the original order; or

3. It is necessary to place an order to satisfy a minimum guarantee.

1.19. Delivery Schedule

The following items shall be delivered under this contract:

Description Delivery Date Deliver to:

Notification of Completion of Services

Immediately upon completion of required services

COR/GTM

Invoice

Within 10 days after completion of each service

FMC

COR/GTM

1.20. Quality Control

1.20.1. Quality Assurance and Surveillance Plan (QASP)

This plan provides an effective method to promote satisfactory contractor performance. The

QASP provides a method for the Contracting Officer's Representative (COR) to monitor

Contractor performance, advise the Contractor of unsatisfactory performance, and notify the

Contracting Officer of continued unsatisfactory performance. The Contractor, not the

Government, is responsible for management and quality control to meet the terms of the contract.

The role of the Government is to monitor quality to ensure that contract standards are achieved.

Performance Objective Scope of Work Para Performance Threshold Services.

Performs all translation services set forth in the scope of work.

1. thru 19.

All required services are performed and no more than one

(1) customer complaint is received per month.

1.20.2. Surveillance

The COR will receive and document all complaints from Government personnel regarding the services provided. If appropriate, the COR will send the complaints to the Contractor for corrective action.

1.20.3. Standard

The performance standard is that the Government receives no more than one (1) customer complaint per month. The COR shall notify the Contracting Officer of the complaints so that the

Contracting Officer may take appropriate action to enforce the inspection clause (FAR 52.212-4, Contract Terms and Conditions-Commercial Items), if any of the services exceed the standard.

1.20.4. Procedures.

(a) If any Government personnel observe unacceptable services, either incomplete work or required services not being performed they should immediately contact the COR.

(b) The COR will complete appropriate documentation to record the complaint.

(c) If the COR determines the complaint is invalid, the COR will advise the complainant. The

COR will retain the annotated copy of the written complaint for his/her files.

(d) If the COR determines the complaint is valid, the COR will inform the Contractor and give the Contractor additional time to correct the defect, if additional time is available. The COR shall determine how much time is reasonable.

(e) The COR shall, as a minimum, orally notify the Contractor of any valid complaints.

(f) If the Contractor disagrees with the complaint after investigation of the site and challenges the validity of the complaint, the Contractor will notify the COR. The COR will review the matter to determine the validity of the complaint.

(g) The COR will consider complaints as resolved unless notified otherwise by the complainant.

(h) Repeat customer complaints are not permitted for any services. If a repeat customer complaint is received for the same deficiency during the service period, the COR will contact the Contracting Officer for appropriate action under the Inspection clause.

1.21. Special Contract Requirements

1.21.1. Confidentiality

The Contractor shall maintain in confidence and shall not disclose to any third party any information, data or images received pursuant to the contract without the prior written consent of the U.S. Government. The Contractor shall take all reasonable steps to protect the information, data or images of the Government of the United States and the Government of Mexico with the same degree of care the Contractor uses to protect its own confidential or proprietary information, data or images. Notwithstanding any termination or expiration of the contract, the obligations of confidentiality set forth shall survive and continue to be binding upon the

Recipient, its agents, its successors, and assigns in perpetuity.

1.21.2. Security

On occasion, a Contractor employee/Project Manager may require entry into U.S. Government-owned or operated facilities. If so, the Contractor shall provide the necessary identification to permit escorted access within the facility.

1.21.3. Standards of Conduct

The Contractor shall maintain satisfactory standards of employee, conduct, cleanliness, appearance, and integrity and shall be responsible for taking such disciplinary action with respect to employees as may be necessary. Each Contractor employee is to adhere to standards that reflect credit on themselves, their employer, and the USG.

1.21.4. Local Business Requirements

The Contractor shall take all such steps as are necessary, and obtain and pay for all permits, taxes and fees as may be required by the Mexican government to establish and/or operate a commercial venture locally. A contract with the USG conveys no special privileges or immunities to the Contractor. The Contractor is an independent commercial concern and not a part of the U.S. mission. The Contractor’s employees are not USG employees. Registration of this contract with the Mexican government, if required by law, shall be the sole responsibility of the Contractor, and any fees, taxes, or other duties shall be payable by the Contractor without recourse to the Government of the amounts thereof.

1.21.5. Licenses and Local Laws

The Contractor shall possess all permits, licenses, and any other appointments required for the prosecution of work under this contract, all at no additional cost to the USG. The Contractor shall perform this contract in accordance with local laws.

1.22. Customers Supported

The IDIQ contract covers all agencies and sub-agencies supported by the U.S. Embassy, Mexico

City, Mexico, with the exception of those agencies not registered under the Embassy’s ICASS

Agreement.

1.23. Authorized Ordering Officials

Those authorized to issue task orders under this IDIQ contract are as follows:

Any warranted Contracting Officer assigned to the General Services Office at the U.S.

Embassy.

The above delegation includes full authority to award and administer task orders issued under the

IDIQ contract.

NOTE: All authority to change or modify the basic IDIQ contract, including the exercising of any options, remains with the Contracting Officer assigned to the General Services Office at the

U.S. Embassy Mexico City.

List of Attachments

Attachment 1 – Payment Registration Forms - Pesos

Attachment 2 – Payment Registration Forms – U.S. dollars

Attachment 3 – Payment Registration Forms – USD in Mexican Bank

Attachment 4 – How to Obtain a DUNS Number and register to SAM

Attachment 5 – Delivery/Task Order Form Sample

ATTACHMENT 1

PAYMENT REGISTRATION FORM - PESOS

Company Information

New Registration of Account Change of Account

Fiscal Name of the account holder

RFC (for Mexican Companies)

Name - Point of Contact

Telephone Number(s)

E-mail Address

Company Address

Bank information needed for EFT transfers in Pesos, Mexican Currency.

BANK INFORMATION

Bank Name

CLABE Interbancaria (18 digits)

Currency of Account MXN

If it is a collection account, please include the reference number:

Numeric reference:

Alphanumeric reference:

Signature Date

FMC approval

Note to Offeror: This form has to be signed and attached in PDF format.

ATTACHMENT 2

PAYMENT REGISTRATION FORM – U.S. DOLLARS

PAYMENT REGISTRATION

TO A BANK IN THE UNITED STATES

Company Information

New Registration of Account Change of Account

Name of the account holder

Name - Point of Contact

Telephone Number

Address

DUNS Number

Vendor US Tax ID

Bank information needed for EFT transfers in U.S. Dollars to a Bank in the United States

Bank Name

Bank Routing Number (must be 9 digits beginning with a 0,1,2 or 3)

Account Number

Currency of Account USD

FMC approval

ATTACHMENT 3

PAYMENT REGISTRATION - U.S. DOLLARS IN MEXICAN BANK

PAYMENT REGISTRATION

TO A BANK IN MEXICO

U. S. Dollars Bank Account

Company Information

New Registration of Account Change of Account

Name of the account holder

RFC (for Mexican Companies)

Name - Point of Contact

Telephone Number

Address

DUNS no.

Bank information needed for EFT transfers in U.S. Dollars to a U.S. Dollar Bank Account in Mexico.

Bank Name

SWIFT Bank Mexico (Different from SWIFT Intermediate Bank)

CLABE Interbancaria (18 digits)

Currency of Account USD

INTERMEDIATE BANK

INFORMATION

Bank Name

SWIFT Intermediate Bank (Different from SWIFT Bank Mexico)

FMC approval _____________________________________

ATTACHMENT 4

GUIDE FOR DUNS, NCAGE AND SAM REGISTRATION

1. BACKGROUND

To be eligible for an award, all prospective Offerors shall have a unique nine digit Data Universal Numbering System (DUNS) number; a Commercial and Government Entity (Cage)/North Atlantic Treaty Organization (Nato) = (NCage) Code; and register to System for Award Management (SAM). Refer to FAR 4.605(b). For further guidance, see the two attachments at the end of this Attachment.

Vendors have experienced difficulty registering in SAM. One of the most common issues is inaccurate address validation. SAM first validates that NATO Commercial and Government Entities (NCAGE) and Dun & Bradstreet (DUNS) addresses match. Following that, there is a check that the DUNS address matches what the entity has on file with their national central bank (NCB). The NCB address is pulled from the vendor’s primary bank account. Because SAM compares NCAGE and DUNS addresses before comparing DUNS and NCB addresses, entities occasionally correct addresses in both DUNS and NCAGE systems only to find out that they have to change those addresses again to match their NCB address.

NOTE: it is very important that each company/entity register with their fiscal company name and address in DUNS, NCAGE as well as in SAM and without misspelling/typos. The information shall match and be an exact copy in all registrations; otherwise, the process might take a minimum of four months.

2. DUNS NUMBER:

Offerors need a Data Universal Numbering System (DUNS) number to register their entity in SAM. DUNS numbers are unique for each physical location to be registered.

Offerors can request a DUNS number for free to do business with the U.S. Federal government by visiting Dun & Bradstreet (D&B) at http://fedgov.dnb.com/webform

It takes up to five (5) business days to obtain an international DUNS number.

3. NATO COMMERCIAL AND GOVERNMENT ENTITY (NCAGE) CODE:

Foreign entities shall obtain a NCAGE code for each DUNS number they plan to register in SAM before you start the registration process. Make sure the name and address information provided to obtain the NCAGE code matches that of the DUNS number. Allow up to three (3) business days to receive the NCAGE code.

The direct link to an online NCAGE request form is:

https://eportal.nspa.nato.int/AC135Public/scage/CageList.aspx

4. SYSTEM FOR AWARD MANAGEMENT (SAM)

Offerors should open an Individual User Account, (being sure to validate their email address to activate the user account), then Login and Register the entity in SAM at – www.sam.gov http://fedgov.dnb.com/webform https://eportal.nspa.nato.int/AC135Public/scage/CageList.aspx http://www.sam.gov/

Please allow plenty of time before the contract application deadline. Allow up to 10 business days after submission before the registration is active in SAM.

For further guidance, refer to the following attachments.

Quick Guide for International Entity Registrants.pdf

SAM-ForOrg_NewRe g.pdf

ATTACHMENT 5

TASK ORDER FORM (OF 347)

SECTION 2 - CONTRACT CLAUSES

2.1. 52.212-4 CONTRACT TERMS AND CONDITIONS – COMMERICAL ITEMS

(OCT 2018) and (DEVIATION 2017-02) (JUNE 2017, is incorporated by reference (see SF-1449, Block 27A)

2.2. 52.212-5 CONTRACT TERMS AND CONDITIONS REQUIRED TO IMPLEMENT

STATUTES OR EXECUTIVE ORDERS-COMMERCIAL ITEMS (NOV 2020)

(a) The Contractor shall comply with the following Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) clauses, which are incorporated in this contract by reference, to implement provisions of law or Executive orders applicable to acquisitions of commercial items:

(1) 52.203-19, Prohibition on Requiring Certain Internal Confidentiality Agreements or Statements (Jan 2017) (section 743 of Division E, Title VII, of the Consolidated and Further Continuing Appropriations Act, 2015 (Pub. L. 113-235) and its successor provisions in subsequent appropriations acts (and as extended in continuing resolutions)).

(2) 52.204-23, Prohibition on Contracting for Hardware, Software, and Services Developed or Provided by Kaspersky Lab and Other Covered Entities (Jul 2018) (Section 1634 of Pub.

L. 115-91).

(3) 52.204-25, Prohibition on Contracting for Certain Telecommunications and Video Surveillance Services or Equipment. (Aug 2020) (Section 889(a)(1)(A) of Pub. L. 115- 232).

(4) 52.209-10, Prohibition on Contracting with Inverted Domestic Corporations (Nov 2015).

(5) 52.233-3, Protest After Award (Aug 1996) (31 U.S.C. 3553).

(6) 52.233-4, Applicable Law for Breach of Contract Claim (Oct 2004) (Public Laws 108- 77 and 108-78 ( 19 U.S.C. 3805 note)).

(b) The Contractor shall comply with the FAR clauses in this paragraph (b) that the

Contracting Officer has indicated as being incorporated in this contract by reference to implement provisions of law or Executive orders applicable to acquisitions of commercial items:

[Contracting Officer check as appropriate.]

(1) 52.203-6, Restrictions on Subcontractor Sales to the Government (June 2020), with

Alternate I (Oct 1995) (41 U.S.C. 4704 and 10 U.S.C. 2402).

__ (2) 52.203-13, Contractor Code of Business Ethics and Conduct (Jun 2020) (41 U.S.C. 3509)).

__ (3) 52.203-15, Whistleblower Protections under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (Jun 2010) (Section 1553 of Pub. L. 111-5). (Applies to contracts funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.)

(4) 52.204-10, Reporting Executive Compensation and First-Tier Subcontract Awards (Jun 2020) (Pub. L. 109-282) ( 31 U.S.C. 6101 note).

__ (5) [Reserved].

__ (6) 52.204-14, Service Contract Reporting Requirements (Oct 2016) (Pub. L. 111-117, section 743 of Div. C).

https://www.acquisition.gov/far/52.203-19#FAR_52_203_19 https://www.acquisition.gov/far/52.204-23#FAR_52_204_23 https://www.acquisition.gov/far/52.204-25#FAR_52_204_25 https://www.acquisition.gov/far/52.209-10#FAR_52_209_10 https://www.acquisition.gov/far/52.233-3#FAR_52_233_3 http://uscode.house.gov/browse.xhtml;jsessionid=114A3287C7B3359E597506A31FC855B3 https://www.acquisition.gov/far/52.233-4#FAR_52_233_4 http://uscode.house.gov/browse.xhtml;jsessionid=114A3287C7B3359E597506A31FC855B3 https://www.acquisition.gov/far/52.203-6#FAR_52_203_6 http://uscode.house.gov/browse.xhtml;jsessionid=114A3287C7B3359E597506A31FC855B3 http://uscode.house.gov/browse.xhtml;jsessionid=114A3287C7B3359E597506A31FC855B3 https://www.acquisition.gov/far/52.203-13#FAR_52_203_13 http://uscode.house.gov/browse.xhtml;jsessionid=114A3287C7B3359E597506A31FC855B3 https://www.acquisition.gov/far/52.203-15#FAR_52_203_15 https://www.acquisition.gov/far/52.204-10#FAR_52_204_10 http://uscode.house.gov/view.xhtml?req=granuleid:USC-prelim-title31-section6101&num=0&edition=prelim https://www.acquisition.gov/far/52.204-14#FAR_52_204_14

__ (7) 52.204-15, Service Contract Reporting Requirements for Indefinite-Delivery Contracts (Oct 2016) (Pub. L. 111-117, section 743 of Div. C).

__ (8) 52.209-6, Protecting the Government’s Interest When Subcontracting with Contractors Debarred, Suspended, or Proposed for Debarment. (Jun 2020) (31 U.S.C. 6101 note).

__ (9) 52.209-9, Updates of Publicly Available Information Regarding Responsibility Matters (Oct 2018) (41 U.S.C. 2313).

__ (10) [Reserved].

__ (11)

(i) 52.219-3, Notice of HUBZone Set-Aside or Sole-Source Award (Mar 2020) (15 U.S.C. 657a).

__ (ii) Alternate I (Mar 2020) of 52.219-3.

__ (12)

(i) 52.219-4, Notice of Price Evaluation Preference for HUBZone Small Business Concerns (Mar 2020) (if the offeror elects to waive the preference, it shall so indicate in its offer)…