36C77618Q9242-001.pdf

PAGE 1 OF 1. REQUISITION NO.

2. CONTRACT NO. 3. AWARD/EFFECTIVE DATE 4. ORDER NO. 5. SOLICITATION NUMBER 6. SOLICITATION ISSUE DATE

a. NAME b. TELEPHONE NO. (No Collect Calls) 8. OFFER DUE DATE/LOCAL

TIME

9. ISSUED BY CODE 10. THIS ACQUISITION IS UNRESTRICTED OR SET ASIDE: % FOR:

SMALL BUSINESS

HUBZONE SMALL

BUSINESS

SERVICE-DISABLED

VETERAN-OWNED

SMALL BUSINESS

WOMEN-OWNED SMALL BUSINESS

(WOSB) ELIGIBLE UNDER THE WOMEN-OWNED

SMALL BUSINESS PROGRAM

EDWOSB

8(A)

NAICS:

SIZE STANDARD:

11. DELIVERY FOR FOB DESTINA-

TION UNLESS BLOCK IS

MARKED

SEE SCHEDULE

12. DISCOUNT TERMS

13a. THIS CONTRACT IS A

RATED ORDER UNDER

DPAS (15 CFR 700)

13b. RATING

14. METHOD OF SOLICITATION

RFQ IFB RFP

15. DELIVER TO CODE 16. ADMINISTERED BY CODE

17a. CONTRACTOR/OFFEROR CODE FACILITY CODE 18a. PAYMENT WILL BE MADE BY CODE

TELEPHONE NO. DUNS: DUNS+4:

PHONE: FAX:

17b. CHECK IF REMITTANCE IS DIFFERENT AND PUT SUCH ADDRESS IN OFFER

18b. SUBMIT INVOICES TO ADDRESS SHOWN IN BLOCK 18a UNLESS BLOCK BELOW IS CHECKED

SEE ADDENDUM

19. 20. 21. 22. 23. 24.

ITEM NO. SCHEDULE OF SUPPLIES/SERVICES QUANTITY UNIT UNIT PRICE AMOUNT

(Use Reverse and/or Attach Additional Sheets as Necessary)

25. ACCOUNTING AND APPROPRIATION DATA 26. TOTAL AWARD AMOUNT (For Govt. Use Only)

27a. SOLICITATION INCORPORATES BY REFERENCE FAR 52.212-1, 52.212-4. FAR 52.212-3 AND 52.212-5 ARE ATTACHED. ADDENDA ARE ARE NOT ATTACHED.

27b. CONTRACT/PURCHASE ORDER INCORPORATES BY REFERENCE FAR 52.212-4. FAR 52.212-5 IS ATTACHED. ADDENDA ARE ARE NOT ATTACHED

28. CONTRACTOR IS REQUIRED TO SIGN THIS DOCUMENT AND RETURN _______________ 29. AWARD OF CONTRACT: REF. ___________________________________ OFFER

COPIES TO ISSUING OFFICE. CONTRACTOR AGREES TO FURNISH AND DATED ________________________________. YOUR OFFER ON SOLICITATION

DELIVER ALL ITEMS SET FORTH OR OTHERWISE IDENTIFIED ABOVE AND ON ANY (BLOCK 5), INCLUDING ANY ADDITIONS OR CHANGES WHICH ARE

ADDITIONAL SHEETS SUBJECT TO THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS SPECIFIED SET FORTH HEREIN IS ACCEPTED AS TO ITEMS:

30a. SIGNATURE OF OFFEROR/CONTRACTOR 31a. UNITED STATES OF AMERICA (SIGNATURE OF CONTRACTING OFFICER)

30b. NAME AND TITLE OF SIGNER (TYPE OR PRINT) 30c. DATE SIGNED 31b. NAME OF CONTRACTING OFFICER (TYPE OR PRINT) 31c. DATE SIGNED

AUTHORIZED FOR LOCAL REPRODUCTION (REV. 2/2012)

PREVIOUS EDITION IS NOT USABLE Prescribed by GSA - FAR (48 CFR) 53.212

7. FOR SOLICITATION

INFORMATION CALL:

STANDARD FORM 1449

OFFEROR TO COMPLETE BLOCKS 12, 17, 23, 24, & 30

SOLICITATION/CONTRACT/ORDER FOR COMMERCIAL ITEMS 65

777-18-3-1082-0028

36C77618Q9242 09-11-2018

WILLIAM SINGLETON 314-894-6656 X65108 09-17-2018

10:00

00776

Department of Veteran Affairs

PCAC-ST. LOUIS

11152 South Towne Square

Saint Louis MO 63123

X

Y

541519

$27.5 Million

N/A

X

See Attached

Department of Veteran Affairs

Employee Education System (EES)

00776

Department of Veterans Affairs

St. Louis MO 63123

Department of Veterans Affairs

Financial Services Center

Invoices To Be Submitted Electronically www.ob10.com/us/en/veterans-affairs/ e-Invoice Setup Info Phone 877-489-6135

PHONE: 877-353-9791 FAX: 512-460-5429

See CONTINUATION Page

Description of Services:

eLearninf SaaS Design and Development

See CONTINUATION Page

X X

36C77618Q9242

Table of Contents

SECTION A

A.1 SF 1449 SOLICITATION/CONTRACT/ORDER FOR COMMERCIAL ITEMS

SECTION B - CONTINUATION OF SF 1449 BLOCKS

B.1 CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION DATA

B.2 LIMITATIONS ON SUBCONTRACTING-- MONITORING AND COMPLIANCE (JUN

2011)

B.3 SUBCONTRACTING COMMITMENTS--MONITORING AND COMPLIANCE (JUN

2011)

B.4 PRICE/COST SCHEDULE

ITEM INFORMATION

B.5 DELIVERY SCHEDULE

SECTION C - CONTRACT CLAUSES

C.1 52.252-1 SOLICITATION PROVISIONS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE (FEB

1998)

C.2 52.217-8 OPTION TO EXTEND SERVICES (NOV 1999)

C.3 52.217-9 OPTION TO EXTEND THE TERM OF THE CONTRACT (MAR 2000)

C.4 VAAR 852.203-70 COMMERCIAL ADVERTISING (MAY 2018)

C.5 VAAR 852.215-71 EVALUATION FACTOR COMMITMENTS (DEC 2009)

C.6 VAAR 852.232-72 ELECTRONIC SUBMISSION OF PAYMENT REQUESTS (NOV

2012)

C.7 VAAR 852.237-70 CONTRACTOR RESPONSIBILITIES (APR 1984)

C.8 52.212-5 CONTRACT TERMS AND CONDITIONS REQUIRED TO IMPLEMENT

STATUTES OR EXECUTIVE ORDERS—COMMERCIAL ITEMS (JAN 2018)

C.9 52.252-2 CLAUSES INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE (FEB 1998)

SECTION D - CONTRACT DOCUMENTS, EXHIBITS, OR ATTACHMENTS

SECTION E - SOLICITATION PROVISIONS

E.1 52.209-7 INFORMATION REGARDING RESPONSIBILITY MATTERS (JUL 2013)

E.2 52.216-1 TYPE OF CONTRACT (APR 1984)

E.3 52.233-2 SERVICE OF PROTEST (SEP 2006)

E.4 VAAR 852.215-70 SERVICE-DISABLED VETERAN-OWNED AND VETERAN-

OWNED SMALL BUSINESS EVALUATION FACTORS (JUL 2016)(DEVIATION)

E.5 VAAR 852.233-70 PROTEST CONTENT/ALTERNATIVE DISPUTE RESOLUTION

(JAN 2008)

E.6 VAAR 852.233-71 ALTERNATE PROTEST PROCEDURE (JAN 1998)

E.7 52.212-2 EVALUATION—COMMERCIAL ITEMS (OCT 2014)

Fail

Rating Rationale

E.8 52.212-3 OFFEROR REPRESENTATIONS AND CERTIFICATIONS—COMMERCIAL

ITEMS (NOV 2017)

SECTION B - CONTINUATION OF SF 1449 BLOCKS

B.1 CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION DATA

1. Contract Administration: All contract administration matters will be handled by the following individuals:

a. CONTRACTOR:

b. GOVERNMENT: Contracting Officer 36C777 Derrick L. Harris

Department of Veteran Affairs

2. CONTRACTOR REMITTANCE ADDRESS: All payments by the Government to the contractor will be made in accordance with:

[X] 52.232-33, Payment by Electronic Funds Transfer—System For Award Management, or

[] 52.232-36, Payment by Third Party

3. INVOICES: Invoices shall be submitted in arrears:

a. Quarterly []

b. Semi-Annually []

c. Other [X] Monthly

4. GOVERNMENT INVOICE ADDRESS: All Invoices from the contractor shall be submitted electronically in accordance with VAAR Clause 852.232-72 Electronic Submission of Payment Requests.

Department of Veterans Affairs

Financial Services Center

Invoices To Be Submitted Electronically www.ob10.com/us/en/veterans-affairs/ e-Invoice Setup Info Phone 877-489-6135

ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF AMENDMENTS: The offeror acknowledges receipt of amendments to the

Solicitation numbered and dated as follows:

AMENDMENT NO DATE

B.2 LIMITATIONS ON SUBCONTRACTING-- MONITORING AND

COMPLIANCE (JUN 2011)

This solicitation includes FAR 52.219-30 Notice of Set-Aside for Women-Owned Small Business

Concerns Eligible Under the Women-Owned Small Business Program. Accordingly, any contract resulting from this solicitation will include this clause. The contractor is advised in performing contract administration functions, the CO may use the services of a support contractor(s) retained by VA to assist in assessing the contractor's compliance with the limitations on subcontracting or percentage of work performance requirements specified in the clause. To that end, the support contractor(s) may require access to contractor's offices where the contractor's business records or other proprietary data are retained and to review such business records regarding the contractor's compliance with this requirement. All support contractors conducting this review on behalf of VA will be required to sign an “Information

Protection and Non-Disclosure and Disclosure of Conflicts of Interest Agreement” to ensure the contractor's business records or other proprietary data reviewed or obtained in the course of assisting the

CO in assessing the contractor for compliance are protected to ensure information or data is not improperly disclosed or other impropriety occurs. Furthermore, if VA determines any services the support contractor(s) will perform in assessing compliance are advisory and assistance services as defined in FAR

2.101, Definitions, the support contractor(s) must also enter into an agreement with the contractor to protect proprietary information as required by FAR 9.505-4, obtaining access to proprietary information, paragraph (b). The contractor is required to cooperate fully and make available any records as may be required to enable the CO to assess the contractor's compliance with the limitations on subcontracting or percentage of work performance requirement.

B.3 SUBCONTRACTING COMMITMENTS--MONITORING AND

COMPLIANCE (JUN 2011)

This solicitation includes VAAR 852.215-70, Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned and Veteran-Owned

Small Business Evaluation Factors, and VAAR 852.215-71, Evaluation Factor Commitments.

Accordingly, any contract resulting from this solicitation will include these clauses. The contractor is advised in performing contract administration functions, the CO may use the services of a support contractor(s) to assist in assessing contractor compliance with the subcontracting commitments incorporated into the contract. To that end, the support contractor(s) may require access to the contractor's business records or other proprietary data to review such business records regarding contract compliance with this requirement. All support contractors conducting this review on behalf of VA will be required to sign an “Information Protection and Non-Disclosure and Disclosure of Conflicts of Interest Agreement” to ensure the contractor's business records or other proprietary data reviewed or obtained in the course of assisting the CO in assessing the contractor for compliance are protected to ensure information or data is not improperly disclosed or other impropriety occurs. Furthermore, if VA determines any services the support contractor(s) will perform in assessing compliance are advisory and assistance services as defined in FAR 2.101, Definitions, the support contractor(s) must also enter into an agreement with the contractor to protect proprietary information as required by FAR 9.505-4, obtaining access to proprietary information, paragraph (b). The contractor is required to cooperate fully and make available any records as may be required to enable the CO to assess the contractor compliance with the subcontracting commitments.

B.4 PRICE/COST SCHEDULE

ITEM INFORMATION

ITEM

NUMBER

DESCRIPTION OF

SUPPLIES/SERVICES QUANTITY UNIT UNIT PRICE AMOUNT

12.00 MO __________________ __________________

TRACE CODE: 18.IL.MA.LPDRMRENEW.A

ELEARNING SOFTWARE AS A SERVICE (SaaS) DESIGN AND

DEVELOPMENT PACKAGE, ONLINE SERVICE.

Contract Period: Base

POP Begin: 09-28-2018

POP End: 09-27-2019

DEVELOPMENT PACKAGE, ONLINE SERVICE.

Contract Period: Option 1

POP Begin: 09-28-2019

POP End: 09-27-2020

DEVELOPMENT PACKAGE, ONLINE SERVICE.

Contract Period: Option 2

POP Begin: 09-28-2020

POP End: 09-27-2021

DEVELOPMENT PACKAGE, ONLINE SERVICE.

Contract Period: Option 3

POP Begin: 09-28-2021

POP End: 09-27-2022

DEVELOPMENT PACKAGE, ONLINE SERVICE.

Contract Period: Option 4

POP Begin: 09-28-2022

POP End: 09-27-2023

GRAND TOTAL __________________

B.5 DELIVERY SCHEDULE

ITEM NUMBER QUANTITY

DELIVERY

DATE

12.00

DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS

EMPLOYEE EDUCATION SYSTEM

eLearning Design and Development Software as a Service ( SaaS)

1. Title of Request: EES eLearning Software as a Service (SaaS) Design and Development Package

2. Background: The Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA), Veterans Health Administration (VHA)

Employee Education System (EES) is a unique government learning organization that also provides professional accreditation. The component services and sub component services described in this performance work statement (PWS) will require programming to meet unique needs related to accreditation, project management, content development and review; and delivery of final products and source files for both desktop and mobile environments.

EES has used an integrated eLearning design and development tool since October 2014 that provides five key “software as a service” (SaaS) components:

1. Authoring system: allows a non-programmer to build the basics of a module, including some interactive components, quizzes, pages, etc. as a storyboard. The authoring system exports content as files in the courseware template, which can later be tweaked by a developer.

2. Review system external to the VA firewall that allows for review in the authoring system described above and for courses during development.

3. VA Section 508 compliant courseware templates.

4. Course packager: ‘packages’ courseware template files into a SCORM 1.2 module, which can be posted and tracked on the VA Talent Management System (TMS).

5. Support services for issues with programming, coding or Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Section 508 compliance within the software.

This SaaS and its components will be employed for all phases of courseware design, development, implementation and closeout. The benefit of these integrated components will include:

1. Method for the multiple non-programmers to build content modules

2. Templates designed for rapid development

3. VA Section 508 compliant courseware, resulting in reduced time in editing for Section 508 remediation

4. Online review for subject matter experts, instructional designers and developers, expediting content review

5. A course packager to package modules to SCORM 1.2 or SCORM 2004

6. Industry expert support for programming

3. Scope of Work: VHA EES requires an existing, available and tested eLearning SaaS that allows for the completion of 45 new eLearning projects and 120 new eLearning modules per year and the following elements to support rapid eLearning design, development and implementation that supports and complies with VA enterprise systems:

1. Storage and display for eLearning courses in all phases of development to include a sandbox for prototyping courseware for development

2. Storyboard design system

3. Course review system

4. Development tools, to facilitate page design

5. VA Section 508 compliant course template, which is downloadable and useable on VA computers/ desktop/ equipment

6. SCORM packager with output that functions accurately on the VA Talent Management System for thousands of end users

Output from the SaaS should also be capable of producing courseware that operates successfully on mobile devices and in lower bandwidth environments. The VA Section 508 Office has a stringent set of requirements that may require modification of the SaaS so that output of courseware can meet the needs of those requiring use of assistive devices. The SaaS will provide a stable base for content management, design, development and implementation of eLearning within the VA and the VA TMS, while producing output that is Section 508 compliant.

Functional elements within the integrated software as a service platform must include information architecture (e.g., storyboard) design of eLearning courseware, as well as implementation services that include build and output of functional eLearning modules that complies and operates on the VA TMS or alternate VA enterprise learning management systems, as well as other SCORM conformant learning management systems (LMS). Content produced by this service will use web programming to allow for functioning in a variety of lower bandwidth end user environments, including mobile devices (e.g., Android and iOS). The menu, navigation, assessments and other inherent elements generated by this service will be Section 508 compliant as determined by the VA Section 508 Office.

The purpose of this contract is to provide for consistency and continuity of government project management, review and deliverables across multiple VA organizations. This continuity and consistency will be provided through the component services and sub component services described below.

4. Period of Performance: September 28, 2018 thru September 27, 2019 plus four (4) additional one (1) year option periods. There will be a kick-off meeting on September 28, 2018

5. Type of Contract: Firm-Fixed Price

6. Place of Performance: Services will be performed at the contractor’s facility.

7. Government Recognized Holidays: Unless specifically authorized in writing by the Contracting

Officer, no services will be provided and no charges will be incurred and/or billed to any order on this contract on any of the Federal Holidays listed below.

New Year’s Day Labor Day

Martin Luther King Day Columbus Day

Presidents' Day Veterans' Day

Memorial Day Thanksgiving Day

Independence Day Christmas Day

8. Mandatory Tasks and Associated Deliverables:

8.1 Demonstration of product: Prior to acceptance of any quote, the vendor must provide a demonstration that meets the following criteria:

1. Authoring system: allows a non-programmer to build the basics of a module including some interactive components, quizzes, pages, etc. as a storyboard. The authoring system exports content as files in the courseware template, which can later be tweaked by a developer.

2. Review system external to the VA firewall that allows for review in the Authoring system above and for courses during development.

3. Section 508 compliant courseware templates, including a HTML5 responsive template, classic template, and standalone media player

4. Course packager: ‘packages’ courseware template files into a SCORM 1.2 module, which can be posted and tracked on the VA TMS.

5. Support services for issues with programming, coding or Section 508 compliance within the courseware

Deliverable number

Deliverable Quantity Deliverable day or date

8.1 Demonstration of Product 1 Demonstration of all

required components of the

SaaS

Prior to bid acceptance and contract award

8.2 User Management System within the SaaS: A pre-built and tested user management system will provide for registration, user access and clarification of task project roles used during the design, development and implementation of electronic learning products. The service will provide for users and advanced users. These sub-component services requirements are:

8.2.1 Registration: New users will be able to use an online form to register. The system will provide for a minimum of 1,400 users and 250 advanced users. A sponsor with the role of eLearning

Producer or Project Manager will be required for new registrants to enter the system and projects.

8.2.2 Host/ guest organizations: EES is considered the host organization. The host organization will have all administrative rights and be able to create any number of guest organizations and assign any number of projects to the host organization. The guest organization can assign any number of projects to itself. VA contractors with awarded contracts can be designated as a guest organization by the host organization. Reports will be available to the host organization from the vendor in terms of number of users, current status of projects and task groups, last date content, in any phase the project has been accessed. The government reserves the right to request two custom reports from the vendor within the period of performance.

8.2.3 Designated project manager or eLearning producer The host organization or guest organization will be able to assign designated projects to their host organization.

User: Defined as subject matter expert reviewers and other project team members

Advanced Users: Defined as a project manager, eLearning producer, developers and instructional designers. Only those designated as an EES developer or eLearning producer shall have access to the content builder tool described below.

8.2.4 Project manager /eLearning producer team member assignments: The EES or VA project manager or eLearning producer will be able to assign new users and their role and privileges: i.e., project manager, instructional system designer, web developer, and reviewer.

8.2.5 Password retrieval: User can retrieve forgotten passwords automatically via email from the system.

8.2.6 Application level access: Each individual user account will be unique. Applications, projects, or even single task groups will be assigned at the user account level by a project manager or eLearning producer.

8.2.7 Storage system: The system will allow for storage of eLearning modules complete or under development, source files, media files, and packaged courseware, and act an indexed repository for stored content. Secure FTP (SFTP) will be available to upload or download files as needed.

8.2.8. User Management Support: The vendor will provide technical support to ensure the user management system works correctly and users and administrators have access to technical support.

Deliverable Quantity Deliverable day or date

8.2 User Management System: 1 user management

system for the entire

SaaS

1day post contract award

8.3 User Interface: After successful login, the user interface will be encountered. This home page (or dashboard) will provide access to role-related functional applications, user account management, a support system, a knowledge base for user instructional purposes and a review functional application status. The subcomponent services are:

8.3.1 Application menu: The home page or dashboard view will provide quick access to user applications when access is granted by the project manager or eLearning producer to each individual user. Some users may have access to launch more applications than others based on their role assignment.

8.2.2 Account management: All users will have access to manage their account information (name, address, phone, and company or government agency name.).

8.2.3 Support: A support link will be available that provides access to a ticket based support system.

8.3.4 Knowledge base: The knowledge base will contain a search tool that allows a user to search on topic/keywords related to functional applications that provide instructions on ‘how to’ information.

Information will be provided to allow users to perform the common tasks associated with the system.

Deliverable Quantity Deliverable day or date

8.3 User Interface 1 for each User 1day post contract award

8.4 Project Management Functions: The SaaS will provide for the management of eLearning projects from start to finish through the online sharing of component service and sub-component services. The subcomponent services are:

8.4.1 Project organization: Projects will be organized by roles (project manager or eLearning producer). Within each project there will be subgroups that are designated for design and development of individual modules. The SaaS will provide for online review during various development stages. The user will be able to review and comment online on storyboards and individual pages under development. Reviewer’s comments and name will be recorded and displayed for subsequent reviewers.

8.4.2 Review statistics report: The project management function will allow for the production of reports unique to each project and functional application that records and or summarizes comments and date of submission.

8.4.3 Acceptance milestones: At the project management level, administrators, project managers, and eLearning producers (as assigned) will have the ability to have sign off privileges.

The project management system will be adaptable to allow for unique milestone titles. These milestones are typically: Accreditation Review, Content Review, 508 Review, Pilot Review, and

LMS Validation.

8.4.4 Phases: Normally, the functional applications move through phases: 1) design, 2) development, 3) internal and external alpha and beta review, 4) 508 compliance review, 5) LMS or equivalent validation as determined by the government. The SaaS should have the capability to provide distinctive phases that allow the eLearning work to be done and all users with assigned permissions to access these phases.

8.4.5 Files: The system will have a file repository that allows for the sharing and posting of files electronically, and the ability to transfer files and/or entire directories via SFTP (Secure FTP) or approved VA IT protocol to the parent host organization. Files may be transferred using Adobe

Dreamweaver’s SFTP function as well as other SFTP VA approved/compatible programs.

Deliverable Quantity Deliverable day or date

8.4 Project Management

Functions

1 for each Project 1day post contract award

8.5 Content Builder The SaaS will have the ability for an instructional system designer to build design information architecture (storyboards) intuitively with no additional assistance required and store that information in a VA approved digital format that allows for shared (client/ instructional designer/ developer) online content review, modification and publication in MS Word format. The content builder function will emulate 90 percent of the final output of the functional web content module. Content builder pages will be exported as formatted web pages that will be in HTML or HTML5 or the industry accepted standard that is compliant, compatible and conformant with VA systems and with current, common web browsers including Firefox, Safari, Chrome, Opera, Edge, and IE11. All pages and interactive objects that are output from the content builder must meet Section 508 compliant standards (when tagged properly) as tested by the VA Section 508 Office or VA trusted testers. Included in content builder are the following subcomponent functional objects:

8.5.1 Menu: The course menu is designed for navigation within each module and organized in a hierarchical fashion. Menu items will normally include lessons within the module that may contain one or more pages and/or assessments. Pages within a lesson may be grouped into topics that appear within the lesson. Hierarchy is to be available and organized as Module > Lesson >

Topic (optional) > Page (or Assessment). The menu will not mark complete until all pages have been visited and show that lessons have been completed as the learner progresses through the module. Within each lesson, an option will be available to add topics as content divisions.

8.5.2 Navigation and page structure: Common navigation buttons will be available as part of the navigational structure on all pages and include Back and Next (page) buttons, as well as links to Help, Resources, Exit, and an indicator showing percentage of module completion. Page numbers will be available. There will also be a link to a page that shows which Lessons have been complete.

8.5.3 Content display functions: The content builder will allow the designer to type in text and upload images for display within the content area. The content area will be designed for typical

1024 x 728 pixel resolution and allow for vertical scrolling. Formatting capacity for text and images will allow for resize and positioning of these page elements. Content display items will ultimately be exported to the course files and that content will be Section 508 compliant according to VA Section 508 standards. The content builder will allow the designer to export the content as a word document for sharing with subject matter experts, or to export the entire module as files. Functional content display objects that may be added and edited in the content builder include:

a. Toggle list: In this object the learner selects from a text or image link that allows the learner to view associated content once a link is activated. Several layouts will be available including:

· Vertical layout (Links on left, content on right);

· Horizontal layout (Links across the top, content below);

· Carousel layout (User selects arrows or text to allow content segments to move across content elements in a single page horizontally).

All toggle lists may be set to allow the next button to be disabled until all content items are visited. The designer determines the number of toggle list links on each page.

b. Pop-up: In this object the learner selects from a text or image link that displays a

JavaScript pop-up text object.

c. New window: This allows for a link to be created that allows for opening of a new window with new content. The new window will also be editable within the content builder.

d. Hub and spoke: This allows for design of navigation to and from more than one page that emanates from links on the primary page. For spokes, a link will be provided to return to the hub page.

e. Tables: Tables may be created with the ability to modify colors, row and column headers, and other table parameters (row span, column span, etc.). Options for tables will include those required for VA Section 508 compliance.

f. Links: Links may be created by placing link text and addresses into the content builder. When links are created, input will be available for disclaimer text to appear when the link is selected.

g. Text editing: Text size, font and color, header designation, highlighting, lists, and other text elements are editable in the content builder. Text content may be pasted into the content builder from text copied outside the program. The built-in text editor will contain a spell check function.

h. Scenes: Content within the editor will have the option to be divided into Scenes.

Scenes will allow for a segment of on-screen content to appear alongside a related script for narration. Script will be input via another screen or tab that is joined with the content so that each scene is ultimately displayed in the storyboard along with its corresponding on screen content and script.

8.5.4 Assessments and knowledge checks: The content builder will allow the designer to type in questions and answers to create questions and feedback for both assessments and knowledge checks. The assessments function will also have the following configurations:

a. Assessments may be created at any point in the module and may be set to require a designer specified score before the learner may advance in the module or for the module to be completed successfully and completion to be passed to the VA TMS.

b. A feedback option will be available for correct or incorrectly answered questions.

For feedback on incorrectly answered multiple choice or multiple questions during assessments, the correct answer will not be shown as a default but will be available as an option for the designer/ developer.

c. A remediation ‘link to content’ function will be available in the assessment tool that will allow for a link to associated content to be accessed after the assessment is complete. A link back to the assessment will be available on the content page.

d. Configurations for assessments include end of lesson assessments and end of course assessments.

e. Knowledge checks will be available as another option for assessments but a specific score is not required to advance in the module.

f. Knowledge check/assessment questions will be matching, multiple answer, multiple choice, and true/ false.

g. The designer will be able to set the required score for passing an assessment.

h. The assessments function will allow designers to link a question to specific learning objectives.

8.5.5 Media input: The content builder will allow for input of audio and video files. Options will be available for upload of these files along with their associated captioning files and/or audio described files.

8.5.6 Review/commenting feature: The content builder will allow for review and commenting on specific pages within the content. The display of comments will be easy to access, read, and edit. The commenting feature may be turned on or off by project managers or eLearning producers assigned to that product. The project manager will be able to track comments by reviewer and page. Comments placed within the review system will have ability to be divided according to role, so developers can divide their responses to each comment. Each comment will be displayable in a list format as well as comments on the individual page where the comment was placed. Comments will be exportable into a csv file and sortable by date, reviewer, and location.

8.5.7 Information architecture tool: The information architecture function will allow the designer to input the terminal learning objectives (TLO) associated with each module (or lesson) and associate enabling learning objectives (ELOs) with each TLO. Each ELO may be associated with a page or pages in the content builder. Each ELO may contain one or more associated assessment questions. The tool will allow for linking of question feedback to a page that contains the content answering the associated assessment question.

8.5.8 Storyboard export tool: The content builder will allow for external export of content into a storyboard document in MS word format for review by subject matter experts and instructional designers outside the SaaS. The content builder will also allow for the option to export a script only version of the storyboard.

8.5 Content Builder 1 for each module 1day post contract award

8.6 Export Tool: After content is built using the content builder, an export tool will build all pages into a module that includes all pages, scripting, necessary files, and functionality to allow for a runtime module

(a module that operates using internal web scripting but that has not yet been packaged to SCORM). The content shall be exported to a commonly used course template (as described throughout this section). All modules created using the export tool will have the following component features and properties:

8.6.1 Section 508 compliance: Functional elements created within the module builder tool as outlined in Section 8.4 above will be 100 percent Section 508 compliant as determined by testing performed by the VA Section 508 Office.

8.6.2 Editable content: The content area of each module will be easily readable and editable using standard programming such as HTML, HTML5, JavaScript, JSon and cascading style sheet

(CSS) programming and syntax. Included media and image elements will be placed within the exported module in their designated location as defined when built in the content builder.

8.6.3 Learning management system functionality: All content built using the export tool will contain those functional elements commonly present (course completion, bookmarking, score, and completion status) within content objects that, after SCORM packaging, will run in the

SCORM environment, including tracking of module progress, bookmarking, and pass/fail status as well the data tracking elements used in SCORM 1.2 and 2004. When packed for SCORM, SCORM functions will run and operate within SCORM conformant learning management systems and the VA TMS. SCORM 2004 assessments will allow individual question data to be recorded by a SCORM 2004 conformant LMS.

8.6 Export Tool 1 for each module 1day post contract award

8.7 Courseware Template: A VA compatible independent and downloadable course template will be available that allows for setup and programming outside the content builder system. VA will own the most current downloadable version of the courseware template. The template will contain the same functional items that are outlined in the content builder, editable by those familiar with HTML, HTML5, and simple JavaScript. The template allows the web developer to minimize effort in developing complex course global programming and provides features that aid in the Section 508 certification. This template provides the architecture to develop courseware to be posted on VA TMS and other SCORM conformant

LMS. This template will allow for setup of menu pages, assessments, and course pages using common programming elements including JavaScript, HTML, HTML5, and CSS. Template pages will utilize

HTML or HTML5 or the industry accepted standard that is compliant, compatible and conformant with

VA systems and with current, common web browsers including Firefox, Safari, Chrome, Opera, Edge, and IE11. The most recent version of the courseware template shall be available to the VA for use for editing or new courseware development for a period of twentyfour months after termination of this contract. The course template will contain the following properties and functional components:

8.7.1 Section VA 508 compliance: All menu items, functional elements, images, and pages available in the course template will be 100 percent Section 508 compliant as determined and tested by the VA Section 508 Office. A checklist of compliance requirements is available in the

Standards Checklist section at the VA Section 508 Resources page.

8.7.2 Responsive display/mobile devices: A responsive version (alters display size and formatting according to device/screen) of the template will be available that will allow correctly formatted views of the course module using mobile devices (phone or tablet). Those devices include commonly used browsers used by the latest Android or iOS operating systems. HTML5 and/or other compatible formatting/programming will be used to allow for lower bandwidth environments and display using these systems’ browsers.

8.7.3 Interactive display components: Multiple display functions will be available as described in the content builder section 8.4.2. The content structure will be divisible into lessons, topics, and pages. Content display options included in the build in scripting in the template include:

a. Toggle list: In this object the learner selects from a text or image link that allows the learner to view associated content once a link is activated. Several layouts will be available including:

· Vertical layout (Links on left, content on right);

· Horizontal layout (Links across the top, content below);

· Carousel layout (User selects arrows or text to allow content segments to move across content elements in a single page horizontally).

All toggle lists may be set to allow the next button to be disabled until all content items are visited. The designer determines the number of toggle list links on each page.

b. Pop-up: In this object the learner selects from a text or image link that displays a JavaScript pop-up text object.

c. New window: This allows for a link to be created that allows for opening of a new window with new content. The new window will also be editable within the content builder.

d. Hub and spoke: This allows for design of navigation to and from more than one page that emanates from links on the primary page. For spokes, a link will be provided to return to the hub page.

e. Tables: Tables may be created with ability to modify colors, row and column headers, and other table parameters (row span, column span, etc.). Options for tables will include those required for VA Section 508 compliance.

f. Links: Links may be created by placing link text and address into the content builder. When links are created, input will be available for disclaimer text to appear when the link is selected.

g. Menu: The course menu is designed for navigation within each module and organized in a hierarchical fashion. Menu items will normally include lessons within the module that may contain one or more pages and/or assessments. Pages within a lesson may be grouped into topics that appear within the lesson. Hierarchy is to be available and organized as Module > Lesson >

Topic (optional) > Page (or Assessment). The menu will not mark complete until all pages have been visited and show that lessons have been completed as the learner progresses through the module. Within each lesson, an option will be available to add topics as content divisions.

h. Navigation and page structure: Common navigation buttons will be available as part of the navigational structure on all pages and include Back and Next (page) buttons; as well as links to

Help, Resources, an Exit button, and an indicator showing percentage of module completion.

Page numbers will be available. There will also be a link to a page that shows which Lessons have been complete.

8.7.4 Assessments: Assessments will have the properties discussed in Section 8.4.3 and will include capability to easily program these elements within the parameters of the template code:

a. Require a designer-specified score before the learner may advance in the module.

b. Feedback will be available for correct or incorrectly answered questions. For feedback on incorrectly answered multiple choice or multiple questions during scored assessments, https://www.section508.va.gov/support/resources_508.html the correct answer will not be shown as a default.

c. A ‘link to content’ function will be available in the assessment tool that will allow for a link to associated content to be accessed after the assessment is complete.

d. Configurations for assessments include end of lesson assessments and end of course assessments.

e. Knowledge checks will be available as another option for assessments but a specific score is not required to complete the module. The developer will have the option to disable the Next button until knowledge checks are passed at a set score.

f. Assessment questions will be available as matching, multiple answer, multiple choice, true/ false, and fill in the blank items.

g. The designer will be able to set the required score for passing an assessment.

h. The assessments function will allow designers to link a question to a learning objective and for individual question feedback available on completion of an assessment to be linked back to content that contains an answer to that question.

i. Learner responses to each question will be trackable by using SCORM 2004 in a

SCORM 2004 conformant Learning Management System.

8.7.5 Functional examples: The contractor will provide both adequate documentation and functional examples allowing developers to manipulate all functional components within the template.

8.7.6 SCORM compatibility: The template will be compatible with SCORM 1.2 and SCORM

2004. Correct packaging using a SCORM packager will allow the module to function correctly on

VA TMS or other SCORM conformant learning management system.

8.7.7 LMS /SCORM testing: After a module is tested, the system will allow for launch of the

SCORM module for testing in a SCORM environment including functionality similar to the VA

TMS (i.e., the system will ‘mimic’ the functionality of the VA TMS to allow for troubleshooting).

8.7.8 Auto-play toggle off/on: The learner will have the option (by a simple selection) within the module for the associated media player to allow media displayed within the entire course (all pages) to play automatically on page load or to require the learner to activate the media via a play button. This meets Section 508 requirements while allowing for those not using assistive technology to play the module automatically.

8.7.9 Editability of myInstruo® Legacy Content: The courseware template shall allow legacy courses programmed using the legacy myInstruo® Classic Courseware Template to be imported or placed directly in the template with no editing of content pages, so that the course menu, lessons, pages, page content, assessments, and other information are properly aligned, maintain their original functionality. Courseware previously programmed using the legacy myInstruo® template shall be updated by simple replacement of updated template files and minimal programming edits without affecting the structure and design of the original content. Updating legacy myInstruo content can be done by a beginning level web page programmer immediately by simple replacement of files. After update the content shall be able to be packaged to SCORM

1.2 and SCORM 2004 specifications.

Deliverable Quantity Deliverable day or date

8.7 Courseware Template 1 for each module Downloadable immediately on request.

8.8 Media Player: A downloadable HTML5 based media player will be available for use in the course template or within a separate, standalone HTML page that allows for VA Section 508 compliant displays of media elements: Flash (.swf), mp4 videos, and mp3 audio and other industry common media format that are compatible with VA systems. The media player will allow for play on desktop and mobile devices

(i.e., iOS and Android compatible). The media player will use simple parameters and variables for the programmer to easily customize its use on the course page, including display dimensions, position, media type, audio descriptions, closed captioning, and placement of a transcript. The controls and functionality of the media player will be Section 508 compliant as determined by the VA Section 508 Office. The most recent version of the media player will be available and usable by the VA for implementation of new media objects for a period of 24 months after termination of this contract. The media player will have the following programmable functional elements and properties:

8.8.1 Audio described video: When a video with an audio descriptive track is used, the player will allow for an alternate audio described version of a video to be easily accessed by the end user.

8.8.1 Closed captioning: The player will allow for flexible use of common captioning files for closed captioning, including webVTT, SMPTE-TT, DXFP (xml) formats. The player will also allow the ability to display a transcript of the narrative. During playing of the media, the player will highlight the content being spoken in real time, so the viewer can see the progression through the narrative.

8.8.2 Animation of HTML elements: The media player will allow for HTML (or HTML5) elements to appear or disappear on a course template page to create an animated effect that is timed with play of the media. Animation will be controlled by adding simple language to HTML elements (e.g., to show and hide a div element). Timing of animation of HTML elements will be done in simple, human readable code. Showing and hiding HTML elements includes most html elements including lists, tables, paragraphs, images, div tags and other commonly used HTML elements. Showing and hiding elements will include fading in and out of those elements so the appearance is not compromised. The animation will be synched with the audio or video timeline.

When the player is advanced manually the animation will also advance.

8.8.3 Poster image and loading screen: The media player allows for placement of a poster image that appears before the media starts playing. A loading screen will appear when the content begins loading.

8.8.4 Media player controls/ appearance: The media player will have play and pause buttons, as well as buttons to allow closed captioning, transcript, and audio description of video to appear when an audio described track is available. The current time and total time of video will appear as well as an indicator to show where the current play is occurring.

8.8.5 Mobile device compatibility: The media player will have capacity to launch and operate within mobile devices using the most up to date versions of iOS and Android and the commonly used, industry standard browsers they currently employ.

8.8 Media Player 1 1day post contract award

8.9 Course Packager: The system will contain a SCORM packager used to develop the various SCORM files, including the manifest file, for SCORM Version 1.2, SCORM 2004, or AICC-HACP in order to program the module to be SCORM conformant. The developer may choose to use the packager to develop the code for production on a SCORM conformant LMS or the VA TMS or equivalent VA approved system. The packaging function will allow the course content to communicate specifically with the VA TMS or equivalent VA approved system and other SCORM conformant LMS.

Deliverable Quantity Deliverable day or date

8.9 Course Packager 1 for each advanced user

account with unlimited use

1day post contract award

8.10 Support System: The contractor will provide a support function using staff with technically advanced programming, coding and technical skills that will resolve technical difficulties associated with the SaaS, the associated courseware template, and system/ template related Section 508 compliance, as determined and defined by the VA Section 508 Office or VA trusted testers. Training and support will:

8.10.1 Provide VA/EES specific technical support: A support ticket link will be available within the SaaS that provides access to technical support. The contractor will also respond to support requests for system or template related issues by direct email or phone. Support requests will be replied to with an initial answer within 24 hours (during government business days) from date of initiation. Further investigation may be required for more complex requests. The contractor will reply to support requests with effective solutions and maintain a 98 percent satisfaction rate from users as reported by the vendor using customer satisfaction surveys.

8.10.2 Section 508 Support: The contractor will have expert knowledge of Section 508 requirements and provide solutions to meet or remediate Section 508 technical requirements. The contractor will maintain contact with the VA Section 508 Office and/or VA trusted testers to keep abreast of significant changes in requirements.

8.10.3 Technical Documentation: The contractor will provide up to date and thorough online documentation and instructions for use of the content builder, courseware templates, and media player in an indexed format for easy searching by those seeking technical help. The contractor shall also provide downloadable examples of the variety of interactions and media implementations available in the courseware template and media player.

8.10 Support System 1 1day post contract award

8.11: Modify SaaS and courseware templates to meet specific VA TMS or equivalent VA approved systems and VA Section 508 needs: As a response to the changing needs of the VA, its technical environment, changing browser and device environments, and VA Section 508 requirements, the contractor will respond with modifications of the system and/or its associated template to allow courseware to run successfully and be Section 508 accessible when issues arise with functional elements of the courseware. Modifications as a result of significant changes to Section 508 requirements and/or VA

TMS technical requirements will occur within 15 working days from date of identification of issue.

Current VA Section 508 Standards can be found at:

https://www.section508.va.gov/Background_and_Standards.asp

Deliverable Quantity Deliverable day or date

8.11 Modifications to meet

TMS/VA Section 508 needs

1 Available within 10 working days on request from CO or

COR

8.12: Training: The contractor will supply two hours of training per month on the system and its associated template. Training shall meet the objectives agreed upon to ensure system users have needed skills to operate the various components of the system. The hours may be combined to form a longer training session. Training will occur over VA approved webinar software (e.g., Adobe Connect or MS

Lync, etc.).

Deliverable number

Deliverable Quantity Deliverable…