RFQ - Questions and Answers 7.18.23.docx

Veterans Canteen Services Food Labeling Printers and Portal Solution 36C10B23R0019 July 18, 2023 Q1. Upon reading the RFP it looks like the VA may want every location to have a turnkey system. What this means is every system is an entity to itself with no network connectivity. Formats technically could be sent over the internet and installed in the local database, but the VA would have no direct connectivity to a centralized location, nor would the VA have remote monitoring capability.

What we were originally recommending is an enterprise-based solution where the central location would have connectivity to each outlying location and full remote monitoring capability. In this way formats can be downloaded, edited, and deleted from the central location. The VA would also be able to monitor printing operations, functionality and troubleshooting from a central location. Software allows for preventative maintenance with data coming from various facets of the printing process to prevent failures before it happens.

To sum up the question, does the VA want a turnkey (localized) solution or a full enterprise-based solution?

A1. The VA is requesting a full enterprise-based solution. PD Section 1.0, Product Description, has been updated to reflect as such.

Q2. The PD mentions a "tablet” controlling or driving the printer and application. Is this an Android, CE, or a full Microsoft OS? This makes a difference in performance and licensing.

A2. In accordance with PD Section 1.0, Product Requirements, “The food labeling portal shall be capable of functioning on tablet devices with touch-screen features. The Contractor’s solution shall be capable of functioning on devices that comply with OIT Technical Reference Model (VA TRM).” As a result, the vendor shall propose a solution that shall be capable of functioning on devices, whether it be an Android, IOS, or a full Microsoft OS, that comply with OIT Technical Reference Model (VA TRM).

Q3. One thing that was never mentioned was food preparation. We’re guessing that multiple meals are the same ie. 10 turkey sandwiches, 9 chicken salads etc, and being prepared simultaneously. They may send a batch file of 9 labels. Formally you would print the label, peel off the liner, and apply the label. These printers can come with an internal dispenser that will do that operation for you, so all the chef has to do is pull the label off the printer and apply it. Is this something that you might be interested in?

A3. This requirement does not require an internal dispenser. The Government’s requirement is to print out a batch of labels (example ten at a time) and place each one individually on each item.

Q4. Will the labels be direct thermal or thermal transfer? (Thermal transfer is indelible and uses a ribbon).

A4. The requirement is for direct thermal labels. The PD has been updated to reflect as such.

Q5. In regard to the labels, does the Government require any of the below variables:

· Frozen food- You will need a freezer adhesive if temperatures are below -4F.

· Handling- There are adhesive available which do not stick to gloves when preparing food.

· Batch processing: Do you want roll stock being that volumes are low.

A5. The above additional variables to the labels are not required.