QA Opinion Polls.pdf

SBU - CONTRACTING AND ACQUISITIONS

Q&A PUBLIC OPINION RESEARCH SERVICES 19MX5325R0007

Technical Questions

Q1. Section C.3.2: Qualifications, qualifications 5 “Pre-existing local staff with at least 3 years of residence in Mexico and more than ten years of experience” and 6 “Conduct its own, self-funded nationwide door-to-door surveys with a monthly periodicity and a sample of at least 800 (eight hundred) and 95 (ninety-five) percent confidence level.” Must the prime contractor hold these qualifications, or can the subcontractor complete one or more of these requirements?

A1. Both the contractor and subcontractors, if any, should hold the qualifications.

Q2. Does the offeror have any targeted States to implement the Public Opinion Research Services?

A2. As stated in C.3.4.1, we expect the national quantitative studies to be conducted with a nationally representative survey. As such, we expect all regions to be represented. As stated in C.3.4.2, state surveys will be conducted in any given state, and as stated in Amendment 00002 C.3.4.4, non-local qualitative studies can be conducted in any state. All states are eligible and will be determined strategically.

Q3. If a proposal is submitted by partners/subcontractors, should all the subcontractors have to demonstrate the qualifications required in this section? Or would it be sufficient if as a consortium the partners provide some of the qualifications to add up to the consortium?

A3. Both the contractor and subcontractors, if any, should hold the qualifications.

Q4. Will proof of current membership in the required professional associations listed in Section H.1 be mandatory at the time of proposal submission, or will applications in progress or records of past membership also be considered acceptable?

A4. Proof of membership is required.

Tecuatl, Veronica (Mexico City) @Salceda, Luisanatalia (Mexico City) Do you have the document with my comments? I need to see what David did, it will serve for historic records too. Also, if any of the questions required an amendment to answer, then there must be a reference to the amendment in the answer.

Q5. Regarding the profile of interviewees for National Quantitative Study: the RFP mentions that the distribution regarding age, gender, monthly income, education level, and occupation are expected to be "comparable" to those found in recent studies. What would be an acceptable difference for each characteristic?

A5. As stated in C.3.5, we understand the profile of interviewees will vary.

If variance is within industry standards it is acceptable. We understand respondents may overestimate their income (or withhold the information altogether), but we want a well-designed methodology that guarantees that a random sample is indeed as close to random as possible.

Q6. What would be the maximum expected average time length of the door-to-door surveys questionnaires? How many open-ended questions would they have on average and what can we expect the maximum number?

A6. As stated in C.3.4.1 paragraph b, we expect recommendations from the contractor to keep the length of questionnaire within industry standards. We prefer pre-coded interviews for quantitative studies. Open-ended questions are a rarity, and we only use them once per survey if at all.

Q7. Does the Embassy authorize the use of AI-powered tools (e.g., for transcription, translation, data analysis), provided that data privacy and security requirements are met?

A7. We authorize it for transcription and translation. While it may be an aid in data analysis, we do expect an expert in the field to undersign results.

Q8. Will the Embassy provide assistance in identifying target profiles for in-depth interviews?

A8. Correct.

Q9. The profiles for in-depth interviews are not defined as they are for focus groups. Could you provide us with examples of the profiles of potential interviewees?

A9. Examples of profile include: A third-country migrant living in a shelter in Mexico; A Mexican national of the C socioeconomic strata who has expressed willingness to migrate to the United States; a university-age Mexican student seeking a degree abroad.

Q10. Regarding door-to-door surveys: the RFP states that a method must be proposed to ensure random selection of households, but it doesn't specify the method for selection of the individual within the household. Would this be a proposal from the provider or will it be provided in a technical note?

A10. We expect a proposal from the provider.

Q11. Does the contractor (and any subcontractors) need to hold all three types of memberships listed in the solicitation—namely, membership in a national market research association, a public opinion research association with recognized standards, and an international public opinion research organization—or would holding one or two of these be sufficient to meet the requirements?

A11. Yes. Contractor and subcontractors, if any, must hold all memberships.

Q12. En la página 5, Parte I, El Calendario, Sección B, del apartado B.4.2 Periodo Base. Por favor aclarar si el estudio cuantitativo estatal se refiere a:

• un (1) solo levantamiento anual en 4 estados preseleccionados,

• cuatro (4) levantamientos anuales en 1 estado preseleccionado

• cuatro (4) levantamientos anuales en 4 estados preseleccionados

• cuatro (4) levantamientos anuales en todos los estados del país?

On page 5, Part I, The Schedule, Section B, of subsection B.4.2 Base Period

— please clarify whether the state-level quantitative study refers to:

• one (1) single annual survey in four pre-selected states,

• four (4) annual surveys in one pre-selected state,

• four (4) annual surveys in four pre-selected states, or

• four (4) annual surveys in all states of the country?

A12. It may be as we determine. We may require four different state surveys in four different states or four state surveys in the same state.

Q13. Para estos levantamientos estatales, Preguntas:

¿la embajada será quien decida los estados o espera una propuesta bajo algún criterio predefinido? Y en su caso, ¿qué criterios contempla la embajada para la selección de estados? ¿la embajada tiene alguna selección previa de estados o el proponente debe hacerla?

For these state-level surveys, Questions:

Will the Embassy decide which states are selected, or is it expecting a proposal based on predefined criteria? If so, what criteria does the Embassy consider for state selection? Does the Embassy already have a preselection of states, or is the proposer responsible for making this selection?

A13. The embassy will select the states based on its strategic needs. All states are within the realm of possibility, although we may focus on Chiapas, Guerrero, Oaxaca, Veracruz, Puebla, Guanajuato, and Michoacan for strategic reasons.

Q14. En la página 130, Parte IV Representaciones e instrucciones, Sección L, del apartado L.3.3, en la parte a), del numeral (5) (ii) se solicita que El oferente deberá acreditar su pertenencia a una asociación profesional de opinión pública que garantice los estándares de investigación. Asimismo, en la página 12, Parte I El Calendario, Sección C, del apartado C.3.2, numeral 2; y en la página 34, Parte I El Calendario, Sección H, del apartado H.1 se solicita la Membresía a una asociación profesional de opinión pública que garantice estándares de investigación. (Puede incluir, pero no se limita a, el Colegio de Especialistas en Demoscopia y Encuestas):

Pregunta: Para cumplir este requisito, ¿se requiere presentar algún documento de CEDE que certifique la afiliación o se puede demostrar mediante una manifestación escrita haciendo referencia a la página oficial de CEDE donde se puede consultar quienes son socios o miembros?

On page 130, Part IV Representations and Instructions, Section L, subparagraph L.3.3, part a), numeral (5)(ii), it is required that the offeror must prove its membership in a professional public opinion association that ensures research standards. Likewise, on page 12, Part I The Schedule, Section C, subparagraph C.3.2, numeral 2; and on page 34, Part I The Schedule, Section H, subparagraph H.1, membership in a professional public opinion association that ensures research standards is also required. (This may include, but is not limited to, Colegio de Especialistas en Demoscopia y Encuestas).

Question: To fulfill this requirement, is it necessary to present an official CEDE document certifying membership, or can it be demonstrated through a written statement referring to CEDE's official website where members can be verified?

A14. Yes, an official CEDE document.

Q15. En la página 130, Parte IV- Representaciones e instrucciones, Sección L, del apartado L.3.3, en la parte a), del numeral (5) (iii) se solicita que El oferente deberá acreditar su afiliación a una asociación internacional de investigación de la opinión pública. Asimismo, en la página 12, Parte I El Calendario, Sección C, del apartado C.3.2, numeral 3 y en la página 34, Parte I- El Calendario, Sección H, del apartado H.1, se solicita una Afiliación a una asociación internacional de investigación en opinión pública. (Puede incluir, pero no se limita a, la Asociación Mundial de Investigación en Opinión Pública WAPOR): Pregunta: ¿para cumplir este requisito es suficiente con un documento que presente la membresía que se obtiene de la consulta del perfil en la página de WAPOR?

On page 130, Part IV - Representations and Instructions, Section L, subparagraph L.3.3, part a), numeral (5)(iii), it is required that the offeror must prove affiliation with an international public opinion research association. Likewise, on page 12, Part I The Schedule, Section C, subparagraph C.3.2, numeral 3; and on page 34, Part I The Schedule, Section H, subparagraph H.1, affiliation with an international public opinion research association is requested. (This may include, but is not limited to, the World Association for Public Opinion Research - WAPOR).

Question: To fulfill this requirement, is it sufficient to present a membership document obtained from the WAPOR profile page?

A15. Membership document is acceptable.

Q16. En la página 12, Parte I- El Calendario, Sección C, del apartado C.3.2, numeral 6, se solicita Realizar sus propias encuestas nacionales cara a cara, autofinanciadas, con una periodicidad mensual y una muestra de al menos 800 (ochocientas) personas y un nivel de confianza del 95% (noventa y cinco) por ciento.

Preguntas: Ya que las encuestas son autofinanciadas, no existen facturas y/o contratos para comprobar el levantamiento, ¿se puede demostrar este requisito mediante una manifestación firmada por el apoderado legal? ¿Es posible también agregar publicaciones oficiales en medios de comunicación nacional con datos derivados de tales levantamientos?

On page 12, Part I - The Schedule, Section C, subparagraph C.3.2, numeral 6, it is required to conduct its own nationally funded, face-to-face surveys monthly, with a sample size of at least 800 (eight hundred) individuals and a confidence level of 95% (ninety-five percent).

Questions: Since these surveys are self-funded, there are no invoices and/or contracts to verify the data collection. Can this requirement be met through a signed statement by the legal representative? Is it also possible to include official publications in national media that contain data derived from these surveys?

A16. Correct.

Q17. En la página 12, Parte I- El Calendario, Sección C, del apartado C.3.2, numeral 9, se solicita que el oferente muestre Tener personal calificado capaz de diseñar la investigación, interpretar los resultados y mantener la integridad de los datos, Pregunta: Para cumplir este requisito, ¿son suficientes los currículos del equipo de trabajo?

On page 12, Part I – The Schedule, Section C, subparagraph C.3.2, numeral 9, it is required that the offeror must have qualified personnel capable of designing the research, interpreting results, and ensuring data integrity.

Question: To meet this requirement, are the team members’ résumés sufficient?

A17. Yes, the resumés are sufficient.

Q18. En la página 130, Parte IV- Representaciones e instrucciones, Sección L, del apartado L.3.3, en la parte a), del numeral (5) (v) y en la página 12, Parte I- El Calendario, Sección C, del apartado C.3.2, numeral 10, se solicita Tener personal fluido en español dado que el cuestionario, los grupos focales y las entrevistas se espera sean conducidas enteramente en el lenguaje local.

Pregunta: Para cumplir este requisito, ¿son suficientes los currículos del equipo de trabajo y sus certificaciones de estudios en Latinoamérica?

On page 130, Part IV – Representations and Instructions, Section L, subparagraph L.3.3, part a), numeral (5)(v), and on page 12, Part I – The Schedule, Section C, subparagraph C.3.2, numeral 10, it is required to have staff fluent in Spanish, as the questionnaire, focus groups, and interviews are expected to be conducted entirely in the local language.

Question: To meet this requirement, are team members’ résumés and their academic certifications from Latin America sufficient?

A18. Correct.

Q19. En la página 12, Parte I- El Calendario, Sección C, del apartado C.3.2, numeral 11, se solicita Personal confiable que garantice la protección contra filtraciones de datos. Pregunta: ¿para cumplir este requisito es suficiente una manifestación escrita?

On page 12, Part I – The Schedule, Section C, subparagraph C.3.2, numeral 11, it is required to have reliable personnel who can guarantee the protection against data leaks.

Question: To meet this requirement, is a written statement sufficient?

A19. A written statement will suffice. Non-Disclosure Agreement letters are also acceptable.

Q20. En la página 12, Parte I- El Calendario, Sección C, del apartado C.3.2, numeral 12, se solicita contar con la Capacidad para comenzar a trabajar inmediatamente después de la adjudicación del contrato. Pregunta: ¿para cumplir este requisito es suficiente una manifestación escrita?

On page 12, Part I – The Schedule, Section C, subparagraph C.3.2, numeral 12, it is required to have the capacity to begin work immediately after the contract is awarded.

Question: To meet this requirement, is a written statement sufficient?

A20. A written statement is sufficient to meet this requirement. We aim to begin with one national survey. While financial documents are acceptable, at a minimum, we require a written statement confirming the company’s ability to conduct the most robust single item, a 2,400-sample national survey—without requiring upfront payment.

Q21. En la página 17, Parte I- El Calendario, Sección C, apartado C.3.4.3, inciso b) se señala respecto a los grupos focales que El contratista debe compartir enlaces privados permanentes a todas las sesiones, así como las transcripciones. Preguntas: ¿Las transcripciones pueden ser entregadas solo en español?

On page 17, Part I – The Schedule, Section C, subparagraph C.3.4.3, item b), it is stated regarding focus groups that the contractor must share permanent private links to all sessions as well as the transcripts.

Question: Can the transcripts be delivered in Spanish only?

A21. Correct. We only require transcripts in Spanish.

Q22. En la página 19, Parte I- El Calendario, Sección C, apartado C.3.4.5, inciso b) se señala que, para las entrevistas a profundidad, la empresa debe Conducir la entrevistas y facilitar la participación del contacto de PDS asignado por COR como testigo ya sea presencial en una cámara de Gesell o remotamente a través de una sesión en livestream. Preguntas: Las entrevistas a profundidad tienen otra dinámica diferente a los grupos focales. En cada entrevista a profundidad se debe preguntar a la persona si la entrevista puede ser videograbada, y en estos casos, las personas pueden negarse al video, pero sí querer participar en la grabación de audio de la entrevista. Para el caso del livestream, ¿con la grabación de audio sería suficiente?

On page 19, Part I – The Schedule, Section C, subparagraph C.3.4.5, item b), it is stated that for in-depth interviews, the company must conduct the interviews and facilitate participation of the PDS contact assigned by the COR as a witness, either in person in a Gesell chamber or remotely via livestream. Question: In-depth interviews follow a different dynamic from focus groups. In each interview, the respondent must be asked whether they consent to being video recorded. In many cases, individuals may decline video recording but agree to audio recording. In the case of livestreaming, would audio recording be sufficient?

A22. Yes, please refer to the Amendment 00002, Q23. Page 11. C.3.2. Qualifications. Do both the contractor and subcontract have to show proof / possess the qualifications listed, or can the qualifications be shared between the contractor and subcontractor?

A23. Yes.

Q24. Page 12. C.3.2.6. Quote: Conduct its own, self-funded nationwide door-to-door surveys with a monthly periodicity and a sample of at least 800 (eight hundred) and 95 (ninety-five) percent confidence level. Will you please clarify what a ‘self-funded survey’ means?

A24. A quantitative study with the minimum sample paid for by the company that conducted the survey.

Q25. How strict is the requirement for door-to-door nationwide surveys with monthly periodicity? Most research companies employ online, phone or mixed modes, as door-to-door mode conducted monthly is very expensive.

A25. As stated in C.3.2 paragraph 6, it is among the required qualifications to conduct nationwide door-to-door surveys.

Q26. This statement implies that self-funded surveys are ongoing. Can the DOS confirm that this indeed covers current surveys, or can this cover surveys previously conducted by the Contractor/Subcontractor?

A26. Both ongoing and previous are acceptable.

Q27. Page 14. C.3.4.1.a. What is the average length of the interview for the national quantitative survey in minutes?

A27. All surveys shall be kept under 30 minutes in duration.

Q28. Page 14. C.3.4.1.c. National Quantitative Survey. Were there any specific requirements used in the past for data weighting?

A28. As stated in C.3.4.1 B, we expect the recommendation for the weighing to come from the contractor if he/she sees the need.

Q29. Page 14. C.3.4.1.c & e. What is the expected length for the presentation for the quantitative survey reports? Is it only to be delivered as a .PPT and .PDF file and/or will the vendor be expected to present it in person or via an online meeting / video conference?

A29. The presentation is as long as it must be. Typically, one page per question is enough, but we are open to format. When historical data is available, we like to see changes over time. We do not expect the vendor to make a live or online presentation, but it can take place.

Q30. Page 15. C.3.4.1.d. Can the DOS define what it means by “own trusted personnel”?

A30. That the awardee exercises and guarantees reliability of collection.

Q31. Page 15. C.3.4.2.a What is the average length of the interview for the state survey in minutes?

A31. All surveys shall be kept under 30 minutes in duration.

Q32. Page 17. C.3.4.3.b. Can the DOS clarify what it means by the Focus Group target audiences may include “potential Mexican migrants, third-country migrants in transit?” Does this mean that the migrants are traveling or intending to travel to the USA?

A32. Mexican citizens with a desire to move to the United States are a typical audience of interest to the United States, and we often require sessions with this demographic. We also often require sessions with migrants who are nationals of third countries and find themselves in transit through Mexico.

Q33. Pages 16-18 Sections C.3.4.3.(Local Qualitative Study) and C3.4.4 (Non-local Qualitative Study) Is it DOS’ preference for all Focus Groups to be conducted in person, remote or a mix? If it is a mix, please suggest a proportion for budgeting purposes, for example 50% are in person and 50% are remote out of 12 annual FGDs.

A33. All focus groups shall be conducted in person. Half of the sessions are expected to take place in Mexico City, while the remaining half will be held in other states across the country.

Q34. Are there any expectations that Focus Group participants will be asked to do home exercises or any preparation for the focus group discussions? If yes, what is the average time commitment for each participant?

A34. No.

Q35. Will DOS observers require simultaneous Spanish-English translation for the Focus Groups? If yes, for how many Focus Groups will this be required for?

A35. No simultaneous interpretation or translation is required. All sessions are to be in Spanish.

Q36. Page 29. F3. Deliverables. “Focus Groups: transcript” Do the transcripts need to be delivered in both Spanish and English or only Spanish?

A36. Only Spanish.

Q37. Please confirm that no reporting is required for the Focus Groups? “In-depth Interviews: transcript” Do the transcripts need to be delivered in both Spanish and English or only Spanish?

A37. Please refer to A36.

Q38. Please confirm that no reporting is required for the IDIs?

A38. Question is unclear.

Q39. Page 34. H1. Permits – does the prime contractor require permits to operate in Mexico if the subcontractor already has the correct permits?

A39. Yes. Both need to have permits.

Q40. Page 34. H1. - Do both the contractor and subcontract have to show proof / possess the qualifications and certifications listed, or can the qualifications be shared between the contractor and subcontractor?

A40. Both contractor and subcontractors, if any, must show proof of qualifications.

Q41. Does the Embassy define "focus group" as a single panel? Beyond social stratum or nationality as determined by the Embassy, are they to be balanced as to sex?

A41. Focus groups refer to a single panel with six to eight participants. Some are, by design, single sex. Others are mixed.

Q42. How long a period of recruitment for focus group participants does the Embassy expect after a focus group is requested?

A42. Around two weeks.

Q43. Does the Embassy expect focus group and interview transcripts to be in English or Spanish?

A43. Please refer to A36.

Q44. What duration of the questionnaire instrument (including answers) is anticipated in the national and state quantitative studies?

A44. Please refer to A40.

Q45. What was the duration of past quantitative interviews in the research contract that is expiring? Did that questionnaire also consist of roughly 70 questions?

A45. Correct. Our questionnaires, including demographic questions, are roughly 70 questions long. In rare instances interviews have gone on to 36 minutes in length.

Q46. Are research reports to the Embassy (including those in .PPT and .PDF formats) to be delivered in English?

A46. Please refer to A36.

Q47. Do the raw data in SPSS and XLS need to be delivered in both Spanish and English?

A47. Please refer to A36.

Q48. When referring to "The Contractor and its subcontractors (if any) shall possess and show proof of the following qualifications," is it acceptable if only the subcontractor possesses the qualifications, and not both the Contractor and the subcontractor (if any)?

A48. Please refer to A40.

Q49. In the door-to-door survey with national representation, what is the procedure to receive Embassy approval for excluding geographic areas due to accessibility or security concerns? Will such exclusions ever be acceptable, and under what conditions?

A49. Exclusions for security reasons are understandable. We expect an open conversation and alternatives to be addressed if the situation arises.

Q50. Does the Embassy have specific states in mind for the State Quantitative Study? If not, how far before the study is to be fielded will the Embassy make its decision? Will the Contractor be involved in the selection of states to be surveyed?

A50. The Embassy will make its decision based on strategic needs. The contractor’s input is welcome but not binding. Studies outside Mexico City can typically focus on Mexico’s northern border, southern border or the states of Guerrero, Chiapas, Oaxaca, Veracruz, Puebla, Michoacan or Guanajuato. But all states are within the realm of possibility. The Embassy will make its decision about a month prior.

Q51. Are in-depth interviews to be in-person, or are electronic means (e.g., video call) acceptable? How important is PDS data security in the assembly of responses to individual interviews?

A51. In-depth interviews are to be in person. Embassy values data security.

Q52. There seems to be a contradiction in the national survey requirement for "a national sample of 2,400 with a margin of error of two (2) percent and a 95 (ninety-five) percent confidence level, composed of random sampling in four regions (north, central, southern and capital region) with a sample of 600 (six hundred) and a regional margin of error of four (4) percent each. Sample framework must be based on National Electoral Institute (INE) electoral sections. Method of selection proportional to size. Method of household selection must be random systematic sampling." A national PPS sample of n=2,400 would not yield four evenly sized tranches of n=600 by region. To achieve n=600 by region, there would be a need for disproportionate sampling. Is disproportionate sampling indeed the desired approach?

A52. We expect the design of the survey to respect the five INE electoral sections and the sampling to be therein designed. For the presentation of results, we ask that you compile NOT according to INE sections, but according to our four artificially determined regions.

Q53. Which states does the Embassy include in each of the four regions of Mexico?

As you know, "regions" are not formally defined in Mexico's administrative structure.

A53. Our artificial regions are greater in the Mexico City area, northern Mexico, southern Mexico and central Mexico. The exact breakdown of these regions will be provided upon contract award.

Q54. Are callbacks (re-visits to the household should the selected respondent not be present during the initial attempt) permitted if a household is inaccessible? Is there a minimum or maximum number of attempts permitted before a new household is substituted, or is it at the discretion of the Contractor?

A54. Callbacks are acceptable. We leave the maximum number of attempts to the discretion of contractors.

Q55. Should call-backs take place during the same day for rural sampling points?

A55. Preferably, but not obligatorily.

Q56. To what extent is the Embassy interested in considering Mexico DF as its own geographic region for purposes of this study?

A56. Embassy does consider the greater Mexico City area (including State of Mexico and areas in the so-called megalopolis) as its own region.

Q57. Por favor aclarar si el estudio se debe realizar en cuatro estados o son cuatro estudios estatales. Si fuera esto última, ¿cuántos estados se consideran en cada estudio?

Please clarify whether the study must be conducted in four states, or if it involves four separate state-level studies. If it is the latter, how many states are considered in each study?

A57. The Embassy reserves the right to conduct state surveys in the same state or conduct state surveys in different states, depending on strategic need.

Q58. En las calificaciones por parte del licitante están solicitando: Afiliación a una asociación profesional de opinión pública que garantice estándares de investigación. (Puede incluir, pero no se limita a, el Colegio de Especialistas en Demoscopía y Encuestas):

Pregunta: ¿Para cumplir este requisito se puede incluir la certificación de ser parte y de calidad que expide la Asociación Mexicana de Agencias de Investigación de Mercado y Opinión Pública (AMAI)? Ya que esta asociación agrupa a empresas y profesionales dedicados a la investigación de mercados, opinión pública y comunicación. La AMAI establece estándares que definen normas de calidad y niveles socioeconómicos para la industria, impulsa la calidad donde busca garantizar información veraz, medible y confiable para la toma de decisiones y contribuye al crecimiento y desarrollo de la industria de la investigación en México.

In the bidder qualifications, it is requested: Affiliation with a professional public opinion association that guarantees research standards (This may include, but is not limited to, the Colegio de Especialistas en Demoscopía y Encuestas).

Question: To meet this requirement, can certification of membership and quality issued by the Asociación Mexicana de Agencias de Investigación de Mercado y Opinión Pública (AMAI) be included? This association groups together companies and professionals dedicated to market research, public opinion, and communication. AMAI establishes standards that define quality norms and socioeconomic levels for the industry. It promotes quality, seeking to guarantee truthful, measurable, and reliable information for decision-making, and contributes to the growth and development of the research industry in Mexico.

A58. Yes, AMAI certification is acceptable.

Q59. En las calificaciones del licitante están solicitando: Personal local preexistente con al menos 3 años de residencia en México y más de diez años de experiencia. Pregunta: ¿Se puede cumplir con este requisito presentando la residencia y el currículo del personal con la experiencia solicitada?

In the bidder qualifications, it is requested: Pre-existing local personnel with at least 3 years of residence in Mexico and over 10 years of experience.

Question: Can this requirement be met by presenting proof of residence and the résumé of the personnel with the required experience?

A59. Yes, that is acceptable.

Q60. En las calificaciones del licitante están solicitando: Personal confiable que garantice la protección contra filtraciones de datos. Pregunta: Además del currículo, ¿cómo se deberá demostrar este requisito de confiabilidad?

In the qualifications, it is requested: Reliable personnel that guarantee protection against data leaks. Question: In addition to the résumé, how should this reliability requirement be demonstrated?

A60. Please refer to A30.

Q61. En las calificaciones del licitante están solicitando: Realizar sus propias encuestas nacionales cara a cara, autofinanciadas, con una periodicidad mensual y una muestra de al menos 800 (ochocientas) personas y un nivel de confianza del 95% (noventa y cinco) por ciento. Pregunta: Ya que las encuestas son autofinanciadas, no existe facturas y/o contrato para comprobar el levantamiento, se puede demostrar este requisito mediante una manifestación firmada por el apoderado legal, y muestra de reportes de los levantamientos, así como la publicación de nuestras encuestas en distintos medios de comunicación?

In the bidder qualifications, it is requested: To carry out their own national face-to-face surveys, self-funded, on a monthly basis, with a sample of at least 800 people and a confidence level of 95%. Question:

Since these surveys are self-funded, there are no invoices and/or contracts to verify the data collection. Can this requirement be demonstrated through a signed statement by the legal representative, along with sample reports of the surveys conducted and the publication of our surveys in various media outlets?

A61. Yes. A signed statement will suffice. You can share samples of the results of your own surveys as well.

Q62. C.3.2: Under qualifications the Contractor shall possess, #6 stipulates, “Conduct its own, self-funded nationwide door-to-door surveys with a monthly periodicity and a sample of at least 800 (eight hundred) and 95 (ninety-five) percent confidence level.” Will you accept bids from contractors that do not meet this qualification?

A62. No.

Q63. C.3.4.1: What length of questionnaire should be estimated? This is important for accurate pricing.

A63. Please refer to A45.

Q64. C.3.4.3: Is the contractor required to do the recruitment? May we provide separate pricing for types of participant groups and virtual versus in person?

A64. We expect separate pricing for Mexico City focus groups and focus groups outside of Mexico City (please refer to B.4.2, CLINS 0003 and 0004;

B.4.3 CLINS 1003 and 1004; B.4.4 CLINS 2003 and 1004; B.4.5 CLINS 3003 and 3004, and B.4.6 CLINS 4003 and 4004). As stated in section B4 are fully loaded rates that include all work, including furnishing any managerial, administrative, and direct labor (in compliance with any local regulations), materials, overhead, insurance, and profit. Any costs not separately priced shall be considered to be included in the overhead and other indirect costs. The U.S. Government will not pay any additional expenses. Recruitment can be done through trusted partners. Just to be clear, we expect the winning company to conduct all groups in person.

The only virtual component is for the Embassy’s COR or COR designate to attend the sessions.

Q65. C.3.4.4: Is the contractor required to do the recruitment? May we provide separate pricing for types of participant groups and virtual versus in person?

A65. As stated in C.3.4.4 of the RFP, Contractor is responsible for the recruitment based on Embassy required target audiences. Contractor shall conduct all sessions in person.

Q66. You mentioned that the national and state quantitative surveys contained approximately 70 questions, including demographics. Roughly how long did it take for each in-person interview to be completed in these door-to-door surveys?

A66. All surveys shall be kept under 30 minutes in duration.

Q67. Regarding the focus group transcripts, do you require an English translation, or is the Spanish transcript sufficient?

A67. Spanish transcripts are sufficient.

Q68. Regarding the state-level quantitative study, will the embassy be selecting the state? I assume you do not yet know which state will be required.

A68. The embassy will select the states based on its strategic needs. All states are within the realm of possibility, although we may focus on Chiapas, Guerrero, Oaxaca, Veracruz, Puebla, Guanajuato, and Michoacan for strategic reasons.

Q69. Could you please clarify whether the contractor (and any subcontractors) is required to hold all three types of memberships listed in the solicitation— i.e., a national market research association, a public opinion research association with recognized standards, and an international public opinion research organization—or if membership in one or two of these categories would be sufficient to meet the qualifications?

A69. Correct. If the contractor uses a subcontractor, we require both to have credentials in the three categories.

Administrative Questions

Q70. Is this a recompeted contract? If so, are you able to share who is the incumbent contractor?

A70. This is the first time a contract encompassing all the requirements outlined in the Statement of Work has been solicited.

Q71. What is the estimated yearly budget for this effort?

A71. As mentioned on RFP, B.6 the Maximum of this solicitation is To Be Defined (TBD), we will know this quantity once the contract is awarded.

Q72. Is this solicitation in compliance with (1) Executive Orders 13788, 13881, 14005, and 14222, collectively promoting the use of U.S.-based firms in federal procurement, including professional services?

A72. This RFP adheres to all applicable requirements in accordance with Department of State instructions, regulations, and policies.

Q73. Would we be correct to assume that for each additional option years of service, if any, the required services would consist, at least of 1 of each of the Minimal Units of Service described in section C.3.3 of the RFP? That is, one National door to door survey, one state door to door survey, one focus group in Mexico City, one focus group outside Mexico City and one in-depth interview?

A73. No. The minimum is the amount in U.S. Dollars specified in section B.6, Minimum and Maximum Amounts.

Q74. We understand that the contract is a firm-fixed price, Indefinite-Delivery Indefinite-Quantity contract, but for planning purposes it would be useful to have an approximation of expected deliveries. Acknowledging the fact that answering the question does not imply a contractual obligation from the Embassy, does the Embassy anticipate the delivery of any of the minimal units of service to be carried out before the end of 2025?

A74. Please refer to A73 regarding minimum amounts. Depending on the timing of the contract award, at least one national survey is expected to be conducted before the end of calendar year 2025.

Q75. If the proposal is submitted by partners/subcontractors, should all members of the consortium submit proof of SAM?

A75. We require that the company submitting the invoice be registered in SAM.gov.

Q76. If the proposal is submitted by partners/subcontractors, should all members of the consortium submit Section K Certifications and Representations?

A76. We require that the company submitting the invoice also provide Section K.

Q77. The total amount of all order is not specified in the RFP. Since this will be the total contract maximum, could it be clarified?

A77. Please see A71.

Q78. Payment frequency is upon completion of the Task Order? Or should each Task Order have a payment schedule for specific milestones?

A78. Payment frequency is upon completion of Task Order or CLIN depending on the invoice sent.

Q79. Is DBA (Defense Based Act) required and considered a requirement for local employees under the IDIQ?

A79. Per 52.228-4 Workers’ Compensation and War-Hazard Insurance Overseas. Mexican citizens do not require DBA. American and third-party nationals do required DBA.

Q80. Is it expected to submit the price proposal in a chart as shown in option periods 1-5, page 5? Or is there any specific template to submit the proposal?

Should the offeror provide a breakdown of estimated costs?

A80. Correct, it is expected that offerors fill out the charts from B.4.3 Base year, B.4.3 First Option Year, B.4.4 Second Option Year, B.4.5 Third Option Year and B.4.6 Fourth Option Year, B.4.7 - 6 Month period and B.5 Grand Total Price. Respectively.

Q81. Should the Price Proposal be accompanied by a Price/Budget Narrative?

A81. No.

Q82. Is there any template, specific format, number of pages limitation, among other considerations for submitting the technical proposal?

A82. No, simply follow the instructions outlined in Section L.3, Detailed Instructions, regarding the contents of each volume.

Q83. Is there any limitation for the number of organizations to submit the proposal as partners/arranging subcontracts?

A83. No, but the proposal must include detailed information about all subcontractors and agreements.

Q84. The offeror can consider past experience of partners/proposed subcontractors?

A84. Yes.

Q85. En la página 129, Parte IV Representaciones e instrucciones, Sección L, del apartado L.3.1, en la parte c) señala que el oferente debe presentar Prueba de registro activo en SAM con código NCAGE/CAGE y número de identificación

UE.

Preguntas: ¿es suficiente que la propuesta incluya una manifestación escrita con tales números?

Page 129, Part IV - Representations and Instructions, Section L, Subsection L.3.1, part c) mentions that the offeror must present proof of active SAM registration with NCAGE/CAGE code and UE ID number.

Question: Is it sufficient for the proposal to include a written statement with these numbers?

A85. A screenshot in PDF format of the active registration in SAM.gov, including the NCAGE code and Unique Entity ID, is suggested.

Q86. En la página 130, Parte IV Representaciones e instrucciones, Sección L, del apartado L.3.3, en la parte a), del numeral (2) al (4), Preguntas: ¿Todos esos puntos se pueden solventar con un documento del perfil de la compañía que cumplan tales numerales?

Page 130, Part IV - Representations and Instructions, Section L, Subsection L.3.3, part a), items (2) to (4).

Question: Can all these points be addressed with a company profile document that complies with those items?

A86. Yes, if the document includes the company’s profile along with a list of names, addresses, and telephone numbers of the owners, partners, and principal officers of the Offeror.

Q87. En la página 131, Parte IV- Representaciones e instrucciones, Sección L, del apartado L.3.3, en la parte a), del numeral (5) (vi) se solicita que El oferente deberá presentar pruebas de que dispone de las licencias y permisos exigidos por la legislación local (véase DOSAR 652.242-73 en la sección H). Si el oferente ya posee las licencias y permisos exigidos a nivel local, deberá presentar una copia de los mismos. Pregunta: ¿para cumplir este requisito es suficiente con los documentos que acreditan la membresía a organizaciones nacionales e internacionales, según la página 34, Parte I- El Calendario, Sección H, del apartado H.1?

Page 131, Part IV - Representations and Instructions, Section L, Subsection L.3.3, part a), item (5)(vi), requests proof of required local licenses and permits (see DOSAR 652.242-73 in Section H).

Question: If the offeror already holds the required local licenses/permits, is it sufficient to submit documents proving membership in national or international organizations (as referred to on page 34, Part I - Schedule, Section H, Subsection H.1)?

A87. Yes.

Q88. En la página 130, Parte IV- Representaciones e instrucciones, Sección L, del apartado L.3.3, en la parte a), del numeral (5) (iv) se solicita que el oferente muestre Pruebas de que el licitador puede proporcionar el personal, el equipo y los recursos financieros necesarios para realizar el trabajo. Asimismo, en la página 132, Parte IV- Representaciones e instrucciones, Sección L, del apartado L.3.3, en la parte b), del numeral (2) y en la página 12, Parte I- El Calendario, Sección C, del apartado C.3.2, numeral 4, se solicita Más de 10 años de experiencia en el campo de la investigación de opinión pública.

Pregunta: Para cumplir este requisito, ¿es suficiente el currículo de la empresa y/o su acta constitutiva?

Page 130, Part IV - Representations and Instructions, Section L, Subsection L.3.3, part a), item (5)(iv), and also page 132 and page 12.

Question: To meet the requirement for proof of personnel, equipment, and financial resources, and 10+ years of public opinion research experience — is the company’s résumé or articles of incorporation sufficient?

A88. Yes.

Q89. En la página 12, Parte I- El Calendario, Sección C, del apartado C.3.2, numeral 4, se solicita Personal local preexistente con al menos 3 años de residencia en México y más de diez años de experiencia Pregunta: ¿Se puede cumplir con este requisito presentando el currículo con la experiencia solicitada y en caso de extranjeros documentarlo con su forma migratoria vigente?

Page 12, Part I - Schedule, Section C, Subsection C.3.2, item 4, requests pre-existing local staff with at least 3 years' residence in Mexico and 10+ years' experience.

Question: Can this requirement be met by submitting résumés showing the required experience and, in the case of foreign nationals, supporting this with valid immigration documents?

A89. Yes.

Q90. En la página 132, Parte IV- Representaciones e instrucciones, Sección L, del apartado L.3.3, en la parte b), del numeral (3) y en la página 12, Parte I- El Calendario, Sección C, del apartado C.3.2, numeral 7, se solicita Haber realizado estudios de opinión sobre las relaciones México-Estados Unidos, relaciones internacionales o migración. Pregunta: Para cumplir este requisito, ¿es suficiente mostrar algún contrato previo?

Page 132 and Page 12, requirement to have conducted opinion research on US-Mexico relations, international relations, or migration.

Question: Is submitting a prior contract sufficient to meet this requirement?

A90. Yes.

Q91. En la página 132, Parte IV- Representaciones e instrucciones, Sección L, del apartado L.3.3, en la parte b), del numeral (4) y en la página 12, Parte I- El Calendario, Sección C, del apartado C.3.2, numeral 8, se solicita Tener experiencia previa de trabajo con gobiernos locales estatales, federales o extranjeros, u organizaciones internacionales. Pregunta: Para cumplir este requisito, ¿es suficiente mostrar los contratos y/o cartas de satisfacción que prueben tales colaboraciones?

On page 132, Part IV - Representations and Instructions, Section L, of section L.3.3, in part b), of numeral (4) and on page 12, Part I - The Schedule, Section C, of section C.3.2, numeral 8, it is requested to have previous experience working with local, state, federal or foreign governments, or international organizations.

Question: To meet this requirement, is it sufficient to show contracts and/or letters of satisfaction that prove such collaborations?

A91. Yes

Q92. De la Parte II- Cláusulas del Contrato, Sección I, del apartado I.1 Regulación de adquisiciones federales (FAR) (48 CFR Capítulo 1) Cláusulas, Pregunta:

Dado que hay que llenar con una X algunos apartados, ¿la propuesta que se presente a la embajada debe llevar toda esta sección?

Part II - Contract Clauses, Section I, Subsection I.1 FAR clauses.

Question: Since some sections require marking with an X, does the proposal submitted to the embassy need to include this entire section?

A92. Section I outlines all regulations applicable to this contract. The Contracting Officer has already selected the relevant clauses, and this section does not require any modifications by the offeror.

Q93. En la página 73 y 41, Parte II- Cláusulas del Contrato, Sección I, del apartado I.1 Regulación de adquisiciones federales (FAR) (48 CFR Capítulo 1) Cláusulas, del numeral I.1.1, en la parte 52.212-5 Términos del contrato y condiciones requeridas para implementar estatutos u órdenes ejecutivas- productos comerciales y servicios comerciales (Enero 2025), hay dos subsecciones b) y

c) donde se enlistan una serie de documentos con un guion bajo precediéndoles, algunos marcados con una X. Preguntas: En aquellos documentos listados donde no se muestra una X, ¿la propuesta debe incluir este apartado marcando una x en todas las opciones? ¿Marcar con una x es suficiente para señalar que se cumplirá con cada documento o es necesario presentar alguna manifestación escrita adicional sobre el cumplimiento de todos los documentos?

On page 73 and 41, Part II - Contract Clauses, Section I, of section I.1 Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) (48 CFR Chapter 1) Clauses, of numeral I.1.1, in part 52.212-5 Terms of contract and conditions required to implement statutes or executive orders - commercial products and commercial services (January 2025), there are two subsections b) and c) where a series of documents are listed with an underscore preceding them, some marked with an X.

Questions: In those documents listed where an X is not shown, should the proposal include this section by marking an x in all the options? Is marking with an x sufficient to indicate that each document will be complied with or is it necessary to present some additional written representation regarding compliance with all the documents?

A93. Please refer to A92.

Q94. En la página 131, Parte IV- Representaciones e instrucciones, Sección L, del apartado L.3.3, en la parte b), del numeral (1) se señala que Si su empresa pertenece a uno de los países exceptuados, deberá proporcionar el formulario W-14 junto con su oferta. Preguntas: ¿qué países están exceptuados? Como empresa mexicana, que no hace operaciones comerciales en suelo estadounidense, ¿es necesario presentar este formulario W-14?

Page 131, Part IV - Representations and Instructions, Section L, Subsection L.3.3, part b), item (1), mentions submitting Form W-14 if the company is from an "excepted country."

Questions:

a) What are the excepted countries?

b) As a Mexican company that does not operate in the U.S., is submitting Form W-14 necessary?

A94. Mexican companies must submit a W-14 form if they wish to request a waiver of the tax stipulated under FAR 52.229-11.

Q95. De la Parte IV- Representaciones e instrucciones, Sección K Representaciones, certificaciones y otras declaraciones de los oferentes, Preguntas: Dado que hay que llenar con una X algunos apartados, ¿la propuesta que se presente a la embajada debe llevar una copia de esta sección?

Part IV - Representations and Instructions, Section K - Representations, Certifications, and Other Statements of Offerors.

Question: Since some parts require checking boxes with an X, should the proposal include a full copy of this section?

A95. Yes.

Q96. En la página 81, Parte IV- Representaciones e instrucciones, Sección K, del apartado K.3 52.204-24 Declaración relativa a determinados servicio o equipos de telecomunicaciones y vigilancia por video (noviembre 2021), hay una subsección d), con dos incisos (1) y (2) que muestran cada uno dos cuadros vacíos para llenar con una X, Preguntas: ¿la propuesta debe incluir este apartado señalando en la parte (1) que NO proporcionará equipos o servicios de telecomunicaciones cubiertos al Gobierno en el desempeño de ningún contrato, y en la parte (2) que NO utiliza equipos o servicios de telecomunicaciones cubiertos, ni utiliza ningún equipo, sistema o servicio que utilice equipos o servicios de telecomunicaciones cubiertos? ¿Marcar con una X en los cuadros es suficiente para señalar que se cumplirá con cada parte o es necesario presentar alguna manifestación escrita adicional sobre el cumplimiento de este requisito?

On page 81, Part IV - Representations and Instructions, Section K, of subsection K.3 52.204-24 Declaration Concerning Certain

Telecommunications and Video Surveillance Equipment or Services (November 2021), there is a subsection (d), with two bullet points (1) and

(2) each showing two blank boxes to be filled in with an X. Questions:

Should the proposal include this subsection stating in part (1) that it will NOT provide covered telecommunications equipment or services to the Government in the performance of any contract, and in part (2) that it will NOT use covered telecommunications equipment or services, nor use any equipment, systems, or services that use covered telecommunications equipment or services?