RFQ 36C10X23Q0254 0002 Questions and Answers.docx

Questions and Answers:

1. Are you requesting the older version of BRMP?

There is the old CBRM that aligns with the pre 2021 BRMP updates, but the new BRMP has been out for the past year and a half, and they are creating a new CBRM to align with the new materials. To take the new BRMP and the old CBRM would be like apples and oranges, not a match (terminology and concepts are very different). As a Knowledge Provider with BRM Institute we have the opportunity to review the new CBRM materials first and also to provide any feedback once it comes out, so we have a very close relationship with BRM Institute. As soon as it comes out, I will be getting my CBRM certification and will be qualified to teach shortly after it comes out. We were one of the first three to move to the new BRMP once it came out.

ANSWER: We are looking for the new BRMP course and the NEWER CBRM course as well.

2. We understand that the proposed dates for the Business Relationship Manager Training are from August 7th to August 10th, 2023, and for the Certified Business Relationship Manager (CBRM) from August 14th to August 18th, 2023. However, we believe it would be beneficial for the participants to have a gap week between the two courses. This would allow them ample time to study the CBRM Guide, a 352-page book that is highly recommended for the exam. We propose conducting the BRMP course from August 7th to August 9th, then reconvening to conduct the CBRM course during the week of August 21st. Would this adjustment be acceptable?

ANSWER: This question is n/a since we have changed the PWS.

3. Could you please confirm whether these trainings are to be conducted in-person or if they are to be fully online instructor-led?

ANSWER: Online

4. Could you provide more details on the specific learning objectives for the BRMP and CBRM training sessions?

ANSWER: Please reference the revised Performance Work Statement (Section B.3)

5. Are there any specific virtual platforms that the Department of Veteran Affairs prefers for the delivery of these training sessions?

ANSWER: No

6. What are the criteria that will be used to evaluate the success of the training sessions?

ANSWER:

Participant feedback and satisfaction survey Achievement of learning objectives and course outcomes Success rates in certification exams

7. Could you clarify the certification process for the CBRM training? Is there a specific certification body that the Department of Veteran Affairs recognizes?

ANSWER: The Department of Veterans Affairs recognizes CBRM® (Certified Business Relations Management) and BRM® (Business Relationship Management) courses which are accredited through APMG Accreditation.

8. Are there any specific qualifications or experience that the trainers should have?

ANSWER: Credentialed Individual with the BRM Institute and have a high success rate of trainees passing the certification exam.

9. Could you provide more information on the electronic invoice submission process? Are there specific formats or systems that we should be aware of?

Answer: Invoice information is on page 4 of the solicitation. Please contact Tungsten at the phone number or email address listed on page 4 to begin submitting your electronic invoices.

10. Are there any specific reporting requirements during or after the training sessions?

ANSWER: No

11. What is the expected timeline for the contract award process?

Answer: Within 5-30 days approximately

12. Are there any preferences or points awarded for veteran-owned or small businesses?

ANSWER: No

13. Can you provide any additional information on the attendees? For example, their current roles, experience levels, or prior knowledge of BRM?

ANSWER: No, however, most are new to the BRM roles.

14. Is there a possibility for contract extension or renewal if the training sessions are successful?

ANSWER: No

15. Are there any penalties or consequences if the training does not meet the specified objectives or if there are delays in the delivery of the training?

ANSWER: Yes

16. What is the process for handling any changes or modifications to the contract once it is awarded?

ANSWER: In general, changes must be communicated by the vendor or customer and completed by the Contract Specialist. Depending on the specific situation, a unilateral or bilateral modification will be completed.

17. Are you looking for a Vendor to administer/facilitate the Business Relationship Management Professional ® (BRMP) Training for 30 federal employees and Certified Business Relationship Manager ® (CBRM) Training for 12 Federal Employees?

ANSWER: No. PWS (Section B.3) has been updated

18. If the Training and Certification is through Harvard Business School Executive Education do you have a negotiated cost for the Program?

ANSWER: This is an error. PWS updated to remove reference to Harvard Business School

19. You state the period of Performance for the Business Relationship Management Professional ® (BRMP) and the Certified Business Relationship Manager ® (CBRM) as 5 days, but it's showing 4 days (8/7/23-8/10/23) and 5 days (8/14/23-8/19/23) respectively.

ANSWER: Removed reference to 5 days.

20. Is there a current incumbent who is performing this work?

ANSWER: No

21. Do you have a budget for this award?

ANSWER: Yes

22. What qualifications are needed for the Vendor to bid on this Solicitation?

ANSWER: Authorized trainer through BRM Institute.

23. What is the evaluation criteria?

ANSWER: The best value determination will be made by evaluating the following factor: Price. The Government will be evaluating price to determine if its fair and reasonable.