80SSC020R0007_P00003_DASS_Questions_and_Answers(123-292).pdf

80SSC020R0007

Amendment 00003

DASS RFP

Questions & Answers

123. Question: Excel Pricing Model - Worksheet SPT:

Within Column B of the worksheet, there are Work Year Equivalents listed for labor categories within this RFP (164.6 total). Within individual cells, there appears to be a calculation for 5 years of FTE counts, by position. Some amounts vary by what appears to be a yearly basis.

Should offerors base pricing off of the annual average listed in Column B? Or should offerors utilized the numbers contained within the annual average calculation, by labor category?

Answer: As described in the RFP, the Summary Price Template (SPT) calculates a total price for all 5 years using the productive hours calculated using each Offeror’s proposed conversion factor for each standard labor category (SLC). The SPT then applies the corresponding annual contract rate proposed to the productive hours for each of the 5 contract years. The productive hours for each of the 5 contract years proposed should correspond to the WYE provided in column B and the productive factor proposed. Additionally, to avoid confusion, the numbers in this column have been changed from a five year average calculation, to a hard number for each labor category.

Offerors should follow closely all directions in RFP 5.15.3.3 Price Proposal - Volume III and RFP Attachment 5, Excel Pricing Model (EPM) Instructions and instructions in the EPM.

Certain cells in the EPM file should NOT be modified by Offerors, such as Column B of the Summary Price Template (SPT) which contains WYE’s provided by the Government. SPT Column C, entitled Productive Hours (Conversion Factor), are input by Offerors based on “applying the Prime Offeror’s composite conversion factor to the WYEs.”

124. Question: Excel Pricing Model - Worksheet FBR:

There are escalation rates set within the worksheet which are instructed to be applied to non- SCA positions. If an offeror has a different historical escalation factor, are we able to utilize that within our offer?

Answer: Reference RFP Section 5.15.3.3(d) 7.

125. Question: Excel Pricing Model - Worksheet TC(b):

The worksheet requests ‘Number of Days Per Year’ within Column F for items related to: Sick Leave, Civic and Personal Leave, Vacation, Holidays. Should the days entered into Column F reflect the days for one (1) full time employee by status (Exempt or non-Exempt / SCA), or should the days listed be for all personnel by status?

Answer: As stated in RFP Attachment 5, EPM Instructions, 4. Compensation Template (b):

FRINGE BENEFITS ANALYSIS OF COMPENSATION PACKAGE – Contract Year 1: TC(b), “A separate template TC(b) shall be completed for exempt, non-exempt nonunion, and non-exempt union direct labor. This template is required of the Prime Offeror as well as all major subcontractors.”

126. Question: Section 6.1.2 – Will the Government please provide their definition of “Major Subcontractor” for Past Performance purposes? Is there a minimum percentage of contract bid value or minimum number of labor positions (FTEs) assigned to the subcontractor that result in that determination?

Answer: Reference Attachment 4.9 Glossary.

127. Question: Section 5.15.3.2 – Will the Government please clarify the requirement for a relevancy determination based on administrative services performed at multiple geographic locations and a continuous employee-training program? Is NASA past performance administrative services experience where there was a continuous employee-training program in place supporting multiple offices, sections or divisions within a NASA Center considered relevant and pertinent past performance?

Answer: The Government’s definition for Relevant (Pertinent) Experience is identified in the RFP at Section 5.15.3.2. This section also identifies the experiences that, if included in Offeror’s past performance, will receive additional consideration.

128. Reference: Section 6 Evaluation Factors for Award

Question: Would NASA consider changing the evaluation criteria to LPTA considering the current job market of very low unemployment?

Answer: Evaluation methodology remains unchanged.

129. Reference: DASS RFP and DASS_RFP_Attt_5_ExcelPricing_Model_(EPM)

Question: In light of the clause 52.215-20, included in the Model Contract, and its relationship back to FAR Sections 15.403-3, paragraphs b., and c., regarding the requirement for Other than Certified Cost and Pricing Data in both competitive and commercial items procurements, and also considering FAR 15.402 (3), the amount of cost detail required for the Firm Fixed Price rates seems substantial. Our understanding is that this contract will be awarded based upon adequate price competition. Additionally, price reasonableness would seem to be achievable from comparisons to other offered unit rates and predecessor contract rates.

Will the government remove the requirement for DASS RFP Attachment 5 – Excel Pricing Model (EPM) in it’s entirety, given the Fully Burdened Rates IDIQ Pricing Table is sufficient to determine price fair and reasonableness? This would be appropriate for evaluation of a true Firm Fixed Price proposal.

Answer: The Government does not plan to remove the EPM from the solicitation because, as stated in the RFP, the staffing plan submitted for evaluation under the Technical Acceptability

Factor shall be consistent with the information submitted in the Fully Burdened Rate (FBR) Template, the Summary Price Template (SPT) and the Total Compensation (TC) Templates provided in the EPM workbook at Attachment 5. The RFP states the Technical Acceptability volume will also be evaluated for consistency with the Price volume of the proposal.

130. Reference: DASS RFP and DASS_RFP_Attt_5_ExcelPricing_Model_(EPM)

Question: It is our experience that when a Firm Fixed Price contract is established using significant cost data, the administration of the contract can be interpreted in different ways.

Therefore, if all requested cost data is required, please confirm that the unit price worksheet that will be incorporated into the resultant contract will reflect fully burdened FFP rates and will not specify or dictate indirect rate percentages.

Answer: The Government will award task orders utilizing Attachment 4.12 – Fully Burdened Rates IDIQ Pricing Table as identified in RFP Section 1.7 Fully Burdened Rates Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity Pricing Table.

131. Question: Will the government consider extending the proposal due date by a week?

Answer: Reference Amendment 00002.

132. Reference: DASS RFP, Section 5.16

Question: “Offeror’s proposal shall include a letter from their financial institution on letterhead identifying Offeror’s line of credit...” When Offeror is proposing as Joint Venture would letters of credit from Joint Venture members be acceptable?

Answer: Reference the answer to Question # 48 in Amendment 00001.

133. Reference: Attachment 4.8_SLC Job Description Guidelines

Question: Administrative Assistant I & Administrative Assistant II “Refer to Annex 1 below, DOL Occupation Codes and Job Descriptions and Classification Level Guidance”- The Administrative Assistant I and II job descriptions are not provided in Attachment 4.8 Annex 1.

Please provide job descriptions for Administrative Assistant I, and Administrative Assistant II.

Answer: Job Description for Administrative Assistant 01020 SLC is found on page 4.8-7 of Attachment 4.8, Annex 1, Department of Labor Occupation Codes and Job Descriptions. All Administrative Assistant levels map to 10120. DOL LR and LS guidance contained in Annex 1 assists the Government and contractor in differentiating the appropriate position levels along with the position requirements captured in the Service Requests.

134. Reference: Attt_5_ExcelPricing_Model_(EPM)

Question: “A separate FBR is required for each contract year of the effort from the Prime Offeror and all major subcontractors” Q: Will the Offeror have to submit EMP workbooks from all major subcontractors? Or does the Offeror only submit one (1) EMP with separate FBR Tabs for each of their major subcontractors?

Answer: Per RFP 5.15.3.3 c), Pricing for IDIQ RFP Specified Resources (SR), Offerors shall follow the instructions for Attachment 5 - EPM to propose a contractor team composite FBR per SLC, per contract year. Those instructions inform Offerors which specific templates within the EPM are to be submitted by major subcontractors.

135. Reference: DASS RFP and DASS_RFP_Attt_5_ExcelPricing_Model_(EPM)

Question: In order to evaluate price reasonableness, we request the government provide the number of Productive Hours. Please confirm Productive Hours per WYE in the EPM workbook, SPT tab, Column C should be 1880.

Answer: As stated in the RFP, Offerors shall propose their own technical approach which includes its staffing plan. To allow for differences in staffing approaches, the Government does not plan to prescribe a specific conversion factor to be applied universally to every Offeror.

Consistent with the RFP, Offerors should propose their own productive hours which, at a minimum, shall be consistent with following any SCA requirements.

136. Reference: DASS RFP_Attachment 4.1 SOW, Section 2.5

Question: Please confirm that NASA will be administering training involving NASA provided software applications and the vendor will be maintaining the certifications.

Answer: No, NASA will not be administering training involving NASA provided software.

However, there are resources available to the contractor. This includes online training at no cost, and classroom training on a space available basis. SOW 2.5 states, “The Contractor shall be responsible for training its employees and ensuring employees achieve proficiency in the requirements contained in this SOW appropriate to their responsibilities and skill levels.” RFP Attachment 4.10, Installation-Accountable Government Property (NFS1852.245-71) states the government will provide, “Computer services, including printers, facsimile services, and other office equipment services will be made available by the Government to administrative support personnel as necessary to perform the Statement of Work requirements.” The listing in the SOW

2.5 indicates “anticipated training areas”. The contractor may utilize training available in SATERN if the contractor determines it fulfills the skill levels needed to perform the required responsibilities of each position.

137. Reference: 5.16, page 5-15. Reference states that “Offeror’s proposal shall include a letter from their financial institution, on letterhead, identifying the Offeror’s line of credit and available balance. The information will be utilized to assist the Contracting Officer in completing the responsibility determination required by FAR 9.104-1.” There is no instruction in the RFP where these letters should be placed and whether they are included in page limitations.

Question: Where in the proposal are these letters to be placed? And are these letters included in page limitations?

Answer: Reference the answers to Questions # 11 and # 100 in Amendment 00001.

138. Reference: Section 5. There is no mention of acronym lists.

Question: If we include an acronym list, is it included in page limitations?

Answer: Reference the answer to Question # 98 in Amendment 00001.

139. Reference: Section 5. There is no mention of cover pages, only cover letters. We typically include a cover page for each volume.

Question: If we include cover pages, do they count against page limitations?

Answer: Reference the answer to Question # 99 in Amendment 00001.

140. Question: The Government’s EPM list a line item “Other” – please clarify if this line item “other” allows the contractor to propose additional categories for possible use on task orders?

Answer: Correct. For the FBR and SPT tabs of Attachment 5 EPM, reference the RFP Section 5.15.3.3(b). Additionally, tab TC(b) includes a row entitled “other” that is intended to allow Offerors to include additional benefit categories, if any are proposed.

141. Reference: DRD DASS – 8, paragraph 11 (a). Instruction states – “Smooth phase-in consistent with maintaining efficient continuity of services for a smooth phase-in consistent with maintaining efficient continuity of services for the 45-day period prior to Task Order start.”

Question: Should “Task Order” be changed to “contract?”

Answer: Reference the answer to Question # 101 in Amendment 00001.

142. Reference: Past Performance - Volume II, paragraph 5.15.3.2, page 5-11. Reference describes information to be submitted in this volume. However, there is no allowance for a short introduction to introduce the entity submitting this proposal. This information is important to provide the evaluator the information that follows.

Question: Will the Government please allow a one page introduction to the volume?

Answer: Reference the answer to Question # 102 in Amendment 00001.

143. Reference RFP Section 5.15.3.3 - The response to the price proposal requires a narrative to describe topics such as estimating techniques, basis of all projections, rates, ratios, percentages, and factors in sufficient detail to facilitate the Streamlined Procurement Team’s (SLPT’s) understanding and ability to mathematically verify these estimating tools.

Question: We would like to confirm if we can submit a separate word document with the price narrative, and the price numbers in two excel sheets (Attachment 4.12 – Fully Burdened Rates IDIQ Pricing Table & Attachment 5 – Excel Pricing Model (EPM)). That means we need to submit three separate files for Volume III - Price Proposal. Kindly confirm.

Answer: Reference the answer to Question # 1 in Amendment 00001.

144. Reference RFP 5.15.3.2 (a)

Question: Are offeror's required to submit 2 past performance references from subcontractors?

Answer: Reference the second paragraph at RFP Section RFP 5.15.3.2 (a).

145. Reference: RFP 5.15.3.2 (a)

Question: Will offerors who provide a greater number past performance references be rated higher than offerors with less? i.e., if one company submits 3 references (all Exceptional) as compared to another offeror who submits 5 references (all Exceptional), will the company who submits 5 be evaluated more favorably than the one who submits 3?

Answer: Reference the answer to Question # 6 in Amendment 00001.

146. Reference: RFP 5.15.3.2 (a)

Question: Can Prime Offerors submit 5 past performance references if they have a subcontractor who is not submitting past performance?

Answer: Reference the second paragraph at RFP Section RFP 5.15.3.2 (a).

147. Reference: Glossary 4.9

Question: A major subcontractor is defined as "A company that the Contractor anticipates providing at least $500,000 of contract value in support of the Statement of Work effort." Since $500,000 is less than 1% of the total contract ceiling of $76M, will the government consider amending the definition to increase the total dollar value, or change to a percentage-based value >= 20% considering the substantial size of this contract?

Answer: The definition for a major subcontractor will remain as stated in Attachment 4.9 Glossary.

148. Reference: RFP 5.15.3.2 (h)

Question: If we have a subcontractor who is not submitting past performance, do we need to provide a subcontractor consent letter since they haven't released any past performance to the Prime?

Answer: Reference RFP Section 5.15.3.2 (h).

149. Reference: RFP 5.15.3.1 (a) "The RFP says ""state if the Offeror's intent is to recognize the seniority and levels of compensation those personnel currently earn"".

Question: Does recognizing seniority relate to the earned PTO as related to time in service?

Answer: Reference the answer to Question # 58 in Amendment 00001.

150. Reference: RFP 5.15.3.1 (a) "The RFP says ""state if the Offeror's intent is to recognize the seniority and levels of compensation those personnel currently earn"".

Question: Does recognizing seniority relate to the person's current labor category level? i.e., Secretary I vs. Secretary II?

Answer: No. Reference the answer to Question # 58 in Amendment 00001.

151. Reference: RFP 5.15.3.1 (a) "The RFP says to ""state if the Offeror's intent is to recognize the seniority and levels of compensation those personnel currently earn"".

Question: Can the government please define compensation? i.e., is this only their pay rate, or does it include current 401k, health care, and other benefits personnel are receiving? If it includes benefits, how are offerors to guarantee this without knowing the incumbent's benefits plan?"

Answer: Compensation includes all forms of compensation such as salary and any other benefits provided by the Offeror. See Attachment 4.17, Historical Pricing Data. Also reference the answer to Question # 37 in Amendment 00001.

152. Reference: RFP 5.15.3.1 (a) "The RFP says ""state if the Offeror's intent is to recognize the seniority and levels of compensation those personnel currently earn"".

Question: Are current SCA employees making more than the SCA-minimum wage rate?"

Answer: Reference Attachment 4.17 Historical Pricing Data.

153. Reference: RFP 5.15.3.1 (a) "The RFP says ""state if the Offeror's intent is to recognize the seniority and levels of compensation those personnel currently earn"".

Question: How can offerors propose to match the levels of compensation if we are not given the current levels of compensation for each employee on the current contract? The historical pricing data provided in attachment 4.17 vary as much as 19% between the low and high ranges.

Answer: Reference the answer to Question # 37 in Amendment 00001.

154. Reference: SOW 2.5 "Below is a listing of anticipated training areas and currently utilized applications".

Question: Is the list of training areas provided on pages 3 and 4 of the SOW all offered in the SATERN system? If not, can the government please provide a breakdown of what is and what is not provided via SATERN?

Answer: Reference the answer to Question # 136.

155. Reference: Attachment 5 EPM SPT Tab

Question: The SPT tab provides the anticipated workforce/FTEs. However, it does not specify the FTE amount for the 1) Program Manager; 2) Supervisor; and 3) Training Specialist labor categories. Can the government please provide the number of FTE for each of those three labor categories?

Answer: As stated in the RFP, it is the Offeror's discretion to propose the work mix and work location of the three exempt positions.

156. Reference: SOW 2.5

Question: Does the SATERN system maintain a record of contractor employees and which training classes they have taken and on what date?

Answer: Yes.

157. Reference: SOW 2.5

Question: Does the SATERN system have a scheduling component, i.e., automatic notifications of upcoming training requirements?

Answer: Yes.

158. Reference: SOW 3.0.1

Question: Does the NASA DASS phone system provide any switchboard monitoring statistics such as avg. time per call, avg. time on hold, number of calls, etc.? If so, does it capture the information by each assigned person?

Answer: No.

159. Reference: RFP 5.15.2

Question: Considering the relative importance of the past performance evaluation, will the government consider expanding the current 1 page limit on the self-assessment? This will give offerors more room to highlight the relevancy of their references.

Answer: Reference the answer to Question # 80 in Amendment 00001.

160. Reference: RFP 5.15.1

Question: Will the Government allow a one page introduction to be excluded from page count?

This introduction will allow the prime's to introduce the subcontracting team to the Government and help define the team benefits to align with requirements in section 5.15.1 of the RFP.

Answer: Reference the answer to Question # 102 in Amendment 00001.

161. Question: In 5.15.3.2 Past Performance - Volume II (g) section, the Government requests PPQ be submitted directly to the contracting officer by someone other than the offeror. Will the Government accept a signed/certified CPAR in lieu of PPQ?

Answer: No. Please reference RFP section 6.1.2.

162. Question: In 5.15.3.2 Past Performance - Volume II (a) section, the government designates relevant/pertinent size is defined as projects over $4M. Will the government consider lowering the relevant size to allow more 8(a) companies to participate/respond to this RFP?

Answer: Reference the answer to Question # 28 in Amendment 00001.

163. Question: In 5.16 Financial Institution Letter(s) section, the government is requesting a financial letter that includes line of credit and available balance. Will the government accept a letter of good standing from the financial institution in lieu of available balance/credit?

Answer: No.

164. Reference: RFP Section 6.1, Section 6.2

Question: Section 6.1 states Past Performance is significantly more important than Price. Section

6.2 states “Next, the Government will rank the technically acceptable proposals by price from lowest to highest. Next the Government will evaluate price fairness and reasonableness of the three lowest technically “Acceptable” proposals. Next the government will evaluate the three Offeror’s past performance.” Since Past Performance is significantly more important than price (section 6.1), would the government consider identifying all companies that score “Very High Level of Confidence” on Past Performance and then evaluate price fairness and reasonableness of those bidders. Then evaluate the three proposals with the lowest prices against each other.

This would more closely align with the statement in section 6.1.

Answer: The evaluation methodology in RFP Section 6 remains unchanged.

165. Reference: Attachment 5_EPM-Instructions, page 2

Question: The RFP states, “The fully-burdened rates calculated in the FBR template shall be included in Section 1 of the Model Contract in the format provided in Attachment 4.11 of the RFP.” Is the correct reference to Attachment 4.12 of the RFP?

Answer: Reference the answer to Question # 86 in Amendment 00001.

166. Reference: 5.15.2, PROPOSAL ARRANGEMENT, PAGE LIMITATIONS, COPIES, AND DUE DATE

Question: Are PDF files acceptable for submission? Specifically, for submission for Volumes I, II, & IV.

Answer: Reference 5.15.2 (a) for instructions on file formatting.

167. Reference: 2.A.2 52.216-18 ORDERING (OCT 1995) Pg.2-3

Question: Any supplies and services to be furnished under this contract shall be ordered by issuance of delivery orders or task orders by the individuals or activities designated in the schedule. Such orders may be issued from November 1, 2020 through October 31,2025. This appears to be outside POP. Please confirm.

Answer: Reference the answer to Question # 3 in Amendment 00001.

168. Question: Regarding FCCOM costs, does the Government foresee any space concerns for any of the required personnel.

Answer: There are no space concerns. Reference 2.A.14) 1852.245-71 INSTALLATION-

ACCOUNTABLE GOVERNMENT PROPERTY (JUN 2018) -- ALTERNATE I (JAN 2011).

169. Reference: Attachment 4.4 Wage Salary and Benefit Data

Question: Are there currently any employees under a Collective Bargaining Agreement on this contract? If so, please provide the current (active) CBA for review and consideration for pricing purposes.

Answer: Reference the answer to Question # 63 in Amendment 00001.

170. Question: Does the Government have a need for clearance requirements above a background (NACI) check in the execution of this contract?

Answer: Reference RFP 2.A.16, JSC 52.204-92 NASA Security Program and Identification of Employees (AUG 2018) and Attachment 4.11 PIV.

171. Reference: Attachments 4.13, 4.14, and 4.15

Question: Will the Government provide 4.13-15 as they were not part of the solicitation zip file?

Answer: Attachments 4.13, Safety and Health Plan, 4.14, Management Plan, and 4.15, Phase-in Plan are to be proposed by the offerors.

172. Reference: Section L.5.15.3.1 para b

Question: Will the Government allow the Quality Control Plan and the Training Plan to be exempt from the page count?

Answer: No. The page count remains unchanged.

173. Reference: Executive Summary

Question: Per discussion at the pre-proposal conference, an Executive Summary is be included in the Cover Letter. Please consider increasing the page count of the Cover Letter to 3 pages to allow for inclusion of an informative Executive Summary.

Answer: The page limit for the Cover Letter remains at 1 page.

174. Reference: 5.15.3.2a Past Performance

Question: Contract value over $4M. Short duration, high funded contracts at times can be more involved than long-term contracts. Would the Government consider annualization of short duration, high funded contracts over 5 years in order to meet the $4M requirement for Past Performance?

Answer: No. Reference the answer to Questions # 77 in Amendment 00001.

175. Reference: Security Clearances

Question: Statements at the conference indicated that there are no personnel requiring security clearances yet the RFP indicated the opposite. Please confirm that personnel security clearances are not required.

Answer: Reference the answer to Question # 103 in Amendment 00001.

176. Reference: 5.15.3.2 c,d Past Performance

Question: Meaningful Relationship statements. We assume that a statement of Meaningful Relationship in regards to submission of past performance of sister subsidiaries is to be included in both Volume I and Volume II and does not count against page count.

Answer: Reference RFP Section 5.15.3.2 Past Performance - Volume II for instructions relating to past performance.

177. Reference: 5.15.2 Proposal Arrangement, Page Limitations, and Due Date; 5.15.3.2 b Self- Assessment

Question: Considering the evaluation weight placed on Past Performance, it is highly restrictive to require 1 page to briefly describe the contract work, describe its comparability in size, scope and complexity; AND include a self-assessment based on “… relevant/pertinent process, procedure or capability …” PLUS “… explain any technical or managerial performance issues experienced …”. Please increase the page count for Past Performance Self-Assessment to at least 2 pages, preferably 3 pages.

Answer: Reference the answer to Question # 80 in Amendment 00001.

178. Reference: Section 5.16, page 5-15

Question: Financial Institution Letter. What volume should include the Financial Institution Letter? Would the Government modify the table in Section 5.15.2(a) to include this requirement?

Answer: Reference the answer to Question # 11 in Amendment 00001.

179. Reference: Attachment 5, Excel Pricing Model

Question: The EPM instructions require Major Subcontractors to complete the area below the red row. There is no discussion in the RFP regarding the pricing for unpopulated joint ventures.

The members of an unpopulated joint venture have different indirect rate structures.

• Should each member of a joint venture submit an EPM and follow the instructions given to Major Subcontractors?

• Is the joint venture offeror to submit an EPM by completing the area under the green row? (Note – if answered in the affirmative, there will be 3 EPMs for a joint venture; one EPM from each partner of the JV and one EPM from the JV itself.)

• Can the minority venture partner submit their EPM directly to the government in accordance with the Large File Transfer guidance in Section 5.9?

Answer: Consistent with the RFP, if parties to an unpopulated joint venture maintain distinct rates, it would be appropriate for each party to the joint venture to submit its information consistent with the format used for a major subcontractor. However, the joint venture entity proposing would still need to submit the EPM consistent with the RFP instructions for a prime contractor.

180. Reference: Section 5.4, page 5-3

Question: The type of contract is stated to be IDIQ with firm-fixed-price task orders. Please confirm the EPM is for evaluation purposes only and task orders will be awarded using the IDIQ rates established in Attachment 4.12.

Answer: Reference the answer to Question # 130.

181. Reference: Attachment 5, Excel Pricing Model

Question: The instructions for EPM worksheet TC(a) indicates column D is only for incumbent primes or incumbent subcontractors. There are no instructions for column C on worksheet FBR.

Is column C on worksheet FBR intended only for incumbent primes or incumbent subcontractors? If not, please describe what is required.

Answer: Although instructions for column C of the FBR may not have been in the Excel spreadsheet itself, the RFP does provide those instructions. Attachment 5, EPM Instructions, D.1, states regarding Column C of FBR tab, “The next column provides for the incumbent retention percentage that the Offeror proposes to retain at the current incumbent labor rate.”

Offerors should follow closely all directions in RFP 5.15.3.3 Price Proposal - Volume III and RFP Attachment 5, Excel Pricing Model (EPM) Instructions and instructions in the EPM.

Offerors should complete the EPM based on their unique approaches and ensure all requested information is filled out correctly. Additionally, column C of the FBR has been retitled, “% Incumbents Retained.”

182. Reference: Attachment 4.8

Question: Job Description Guidelines.

For the three exempt positions, will the government allow 4 years of experience as a substitute for a Bachelor degree and 2 years of experience as a substitute for an Associate’s degree?

Answer: Attachment 4.8 Job Description Guidelines offers job description guidelines, not specific job description requirements.

183. Reference: Attachment 4.8

Question: The Secretary I and II SLCs allow “.or equivalent experience.”

Would the government allow “or equivalent experience” for all other non-exempt positions?

Answer: See answer to Question # 182.

184. Question: Will the government consider amending this to release the solicitation under NAICS code 541611?

Answer: The Government considered multiple NAICS during acquisition strategy development.

The Government determined NAICS 561110 is the most appropriate for this acquisition.

185. Question: Is the font requirement Arial 11pt single space or is it just size 11 Arial?

Answer: Reference RFP Section 5.15.2 (b).

186. Question: Is the acronym list included in the 20 count page limitation?

Answer: Reference the answer to Question # 98 in Amendment 00001.

187. Reference: RFP 5.15.3.3. Price Proposal Instructions - Volume III – paragraph d(1).

Question: Is it acceptable to submit the supporting rationale and explanation/detail of all pricing and estimating techniques as required in the Price Volume as a separate attachment in Microsoft Word format?

Answer: Reference the answer to Question # 1 in Amendment 00001.

188. Reference: RFP 5.15.2 Proposal Arrangement, Page Limitations, Copies, and Due Date.

Question: Can a standard 1-page cover page containing only identifying information (i.e.

company name, address, solicitation name, contracting office address, government addressee, etc.) be excluded from the page limit of the Technical volume?

Answer: Reference the answers to Questions # 99 (in Amendment 00001), # 102 (in Amendment 00001) and # 173.

189. Reference: 52.222-17, Nondisplacement of Qualified Workers (May 2014)(E.O. 13495).

Question: Will FAR 52.222-17 (listed page 22 of solicitation) still apply to this contract? Or is it affected/eliminated by E.O. 13897?

Answer: Reference the answer to Question # 4 in Amendment 00001.

190. Reference: Past Performance Instructions / Evaluation Criteria - Self-Assessment – Five Relevant/Pertinent References

Question: Based on the current RFP, one page is allowed for each past performance reference's self-assessment provided by the offeror. If an offeror submits 3 past performance references, would it be acceptable to use a half page for one reference, and more than a page for the other two, as long as they do not exceed a total of 3 pages together?

Answer: Reference the answer to Question # 80 in Amendment 00001.

191. Reference: Past Performance Instructions / Evaluation Criteria - Self-Assessment – Five Relevant/Pertinent References

Question: Would the Government please consider increasing the page limit for the self-assessment from 1 page, to 2 or even 3 pages in order to provide enough space for narrative to properly demonstrate relevance?

Answer: Reference the answer to Question # 80 in Amendment 00001.

192. Question: Can the Government confirm that all past performances submitted from member companies of a joint venture will be considered as past performances submitted by the prime?

Answer: Reference RFP Section 5.15.3.2 (d).

193. Reference: Performance Requirements - PWS section 1.2

Question: Can the Government please expand on its definition of "exemplary performance in a timely, efficient, and economical manner"? How will the Government assess vendors' performance?

Answer: SOW 1.2 states the definition of “excellent” performance as, “The Government expects the Contractor to perform in an “excellent” manner, defined as exemplary performance in a timely, efficient and economical manner, with very minor, if any, deficiencies resulting in no adverse effect on overall performance.” RFP Attachment 4.2, DASS Performance Requirements Summary, contains performance standards and methods of surveillance. SOW 1,2 also lists the “Management Plan included in Attachment 4.14 (to be proposed by offeror)” as a source for “Performance requirements that define quality and timeliness standards for the products and services required.”

194. Reference: Past Performance Quality Ratings (RFP 5.15.3.2)

Question: Will the Government assign a past performance quality rating (i.e. exceptional, very good, satisfactory, etc) to the Offeror as a whole, or will the Govt. assign a rating to each past performance reference individually?

Answer: The Government will assign quality ratings, as identified in RFP Section 5.15.3.2(k), to individual past performance references.

195. Question: Will the Government allow Tabloid pages to accommodate larger tables or illustrations, or phase-in schedule? If yes, would they count as one or two pages?

Answer: No. See RFP Section 5.15.2 (b) for specific information regarding tables and illustrations.

196. Question: Will the task orders be awarded as firm fixed price (FFP) monthly or FFP labor hour?

Answer: Invoices must be submitted in accordance with NFS 1852.232-80, Submission of Vouchers/Invoices for Payment.

197. Question: Is the vendor to bill the task orders on a firm fixed price monthly, OR firm fixed price labor hour?

Answer: Reference the answer to Question # 196.

198. Question: Will the task orders be awarded as firm fixed price labor rate, or firm fixed price for entire task order?

Answer: Firm Fixed Price for the entire Task Order.

199. Question: Are the 3 exempt positions of Program Manager, Training Coordinator, and Supervisor direct bill to the Government, or is the offeror to include such costs as an overhead?

i.e. are we to provide rates and hours within the pricing model document for these 3 positions?

Answer: Yes, proposed exempt positions shall follow the same process as non-exempt. This will be a firm fixed price contract. Offerors should propose according to their unique solution for performing the DASS services and follow all instructions in the pricing section for proposing exempt or non-exempt positions.

200. Question: Are Program Manager, Training Manager, and Supervisor directly billable to the government?

Answer: Reference the answer to Question # 199.

201. Reference: TC(b) tab of the Price Workbook

Question: For the TC(b) tab of the Price Workbook, it is unclear what Labor Cost, in column C, should be utilized. Per the instructions, “The next column entitled “Percent of Direct Labor Cost” shall include the percentage of each of the related specified fringe costs as a percent of direct labor cost.”. The ‘direct labor cost’ can be of any of the 6 position for each of the support/centers, is the offeror to use an average ‘direct labor cost’? Also information on this tab is not tied to any of the pricing tabs, this seems purely an internal analysis to understand if the vendor offers benefits and what sort of benefits. Please expand the use of this tab on the analysis of our pricing?

Answer: “Direct Labor Costs” in TC(b) refers to the total direct labor dollars for this contract per labor category type for this contract (i.e. exempt, non-exempt union/non-union). Offerors are to compute their own “Percent of Direct Labor Cost” and enter it into TC(b), Column C.

Regarding averages, notwithstanding the approach used to complete TC(b), Offerors are reminded of the fact this solicitation contains odd numbered wage determinations which require the contractor to satisfy the fringe benefit requirements on a “per employee” basis and compliance must be calculated using all hours paid (including paid time off, but excluding overtime hours). The contractor must meet the minimum fringe benefit requirement for each individual employee and is not allowed to average the fringe benefit cost over the entire workforce.

The purpose of Tab TC(b) is to ensure that each Offeror is demonstrating an understanding of the Health &Welfare rates, and other requirements, associated with the DOL Wage Determination.

For further information, reference DRD-6, Wage/Salary and Fringe Benefit Data.

202. Reference: TC(b) tab of the Price Workbook

Question: As noted in the above question, ‘direct labor cost’ is not defined. Would the government modify the worksheet or tab to calculate an ‘average direct labor cost’?

Answer: Reference the answer to Question # 201.

203. Reference: TC(b) tab of the Price Workbook

Question: “The column entitled, “Cost of Fringe Benefit” shall include the cost, not rate, associated with the fringes specified (i.e. life insurance, disability insurance, etc.) that are proposed on this contract for each of the related personnel type (exempt, non-exempt union/non-union).” Would the government define if the ‘cost of fringe benefit’ is hourly or the total cost per employee per year?

Answer: “The Cost of Fringe Benefit” is the cost proposed for that type of benefit on this contract for each of the related personnel type (exempt, non-exempt union/non-union), not a rate.

204. Reference: TC(b) tab of the Price Workbook

Question: Tab TC(b) has a limited amount of benefits identified, would the government allow us to adjust the benefits list to document our benefits?

Answer: TC(b) includes a row entitled “other” that was intended to allow offerors to include additional benefit categories, if any are proposed.

205. Reference: TC(b) tab of the Price Workbook

Question: For the TC(b) tab, and SCA employees, is Severance and Sick Leave a Fringe benefit?

Answer: Yes, Severance and Sick Leave are Fringe Benefits. For further information, please refer to 29 CFR § 4.171 - “Bona fide” fringe benefits.

206. Reference: TC(b) tab of the Price Workbook

Question: Is EO 13706 applicable to this bid?

Answer: Yes. Per the attached Wage Determinations from the Department of Labor, “Executive Order (EO) 13706 Establishing Paid Sick Leave for Federal Contractors applies to all contracts subject to the Service Contract Act for which the contract is awarded (and any solicitation was issued) on or after January 1 2017.”

207. Reference: TC(b) tab of the Price Workbook

Question: If EO 13706 is applicable, can the Sick Leave be a benefit under the H&W, as listed under the Pricing Worksheet Tab TC(b)?

Answer: Yes.

208. Question: Can the Government explain how it will perform a trade-off analysis between the top 3 vendors once it has down-selected the three companies with lowest price and very high level of confidence?

Answer: Reference the answer to Question # 32 in Amendment 00001.

209. Reference: Attachment 4.17 - Historical Pricing Data

Question: If an offeror chooses to retain all incumbent staff, is it the Government's expectation that their rates will fall within the ranges given in Attachment 4.17 - Historical Pricing Data?

Answer: It is the Offeror’s responsibility to propose prices based on its approach for meeting the Government’s requirements as identified in the RFP.

210. Reference: Attachment 4.17 - Historical Pricing Data

Question: Given that the government has not provided the number of FTEs within the rate ranges of each labor category, will it be considered acceptable if the low end of the range is used for labor pricing of the incumbent staff?

Answer: It is the Offeror’s responsibility to propose prices based on its approach for meeting the Government’s requirements as identified in the RFP.

211. Reference: Attachment 4.17 - Historical Pricing Data

Question: Just to confirm, are the rate ranges provided in Attachment 4.17 exclusive of any health & welfare dollars?

Answer: Yes. Per Attachment 4.17 these ranges are of average composite rates, which are direct labor rates.

212. Reference: Attachment 4.17 - Historical Pricing Data

Question: How does the Government intend to confirm that for offerors proposing to use incumbent staff that the labor rates are reasonable or acceptable?

Answer: Reference the answer to Question # 59 in Amendment 00001.

213. Reference: Evaluation Criteria (RFP 6.1)

Question: Per the evaluation criteria (RFP 6.1) past performance is weighted significantly more important than price. However the down select after the technical acceptability evaluation is based on price (not on past performance). In light of that, how does the Government intend to give past performance more weight than price?

Answer: Reference the answer to Question # 32 in Amendment 00001.

214. Reference: 5.9 Paragraph (b)(12) Submission of Offers

Question: Per paragraph 5.9, offerors are required to submit their proposals through Large File Transfer (LFT). If proposals are under a certain file size, would be acceptable to submit proposals directly through email instead of LFT?

Answer: Proposals shall be submitted in accordance with the proposal submission guidance in the RFP. Proposals submitted by any other method will not be accepted.

215. Reference: DASS DRFP Questions & Answers - 2/7/2020, Question 8

Question: “There is no exemption for this acquisition. FAR 52.229-10, State of New Mexico Gross Receipts and Compensating Tax does not apply to this acquisition. This answer states that New Mexico Gross Receipts and Compensating Tax does not apply.” Can the government please confirm this?

Answer: The prescription for FAR 52.229-10 at FAR 29.401-4 states:

(b) Contract clause. The contracting officer shall insert the clause at 52.229-10, State of New Mexico Gross Receipts and Compensating Tax, in solicitations and contracts issued by the agencies identified in paragraph (c) of this subsection when all three of the following conditions exist:

(1) The contractor will be performing a cost-reimbursement contract.

(2) The contract directs or authorizes the contractor to acquire tangible personal property as a direct cost under a contract and title to such property passes directly to and vests in the United States upon delivery of the property by the vendor.

(3) The contract will be for services to be performed in whole or in part within the State of New Mexico.

Since this is not a cost-reimbursement contract and it will not authorize the contractor to acquire tangible personal property as a direct cost, the clause does not apply to this acquisition.

216. Reference: SF1449, Item 10.

Questions: NAICS: 561110, Size Standard: $7.5 Would the government consider using NAICS: 561499 Size Standard: $16.5M, considering this is a larger opportunity that requires a contractor that is financially stable to handle the payroll aspect?

Answer: Reference the answer to Question # 184.

217. Reference: RFP Section 2.A-Addendum to FAR 52.212-4, Paragraph (w) Ordering

Question: Orders may be issued orally or by electronic commerce methods.

Will the government please clarify what is meant by "orders may be issued orally"?

Answer: In rare circumstances, the Contracting Officer is allowed to issue verbal orders.

However, all verbal orders will be finalized in writing. Reference RFP Section 2.A.2, FAR 52.216-18 Ordering.

218. Reference: RFP Section 2.A-Addendum to FAR 52.212-4, (B) Government Vehicles

Question: "The Contractor will furnish the SSC Transportation Officer and Contracting Officer a copy of their third-party automobile liability insurance policy, as defined in NFS 1852.228-75 entitled "Minimum Insurance Coverage," covering any and all Government owned or commercially leased vehicles."

Please confirm the government's requirement for insurance is to be submitted at contract award?

Answer: The contractor shall provide proof of insurance prior to the start of contract performance.

219. Reference: RFP 2.A.16) JSC 52.204-92 NASA Security Program and Identification of Employees

Question: Does the government anticipate task orders where clearances for employees or a facilities clearance will be needed?

Answer: Reference the answer to Question # 103 in Amendment 00001.

220. Reference: RFP 5.15.3.2.a)

Question: The contract value for each of the contracts provided in the matrix shall be greater than $4M. Due to the size of this award and in an effort to ensure a contractor's ability to perform, would the government consider increasing the value of Past Performance past $4M?

Answer: Reference the answer to Question # 28 in Amendment 00001.

221. Reference: RFP 5.15.3.3 Price Proposal - Volume III; d) A price proposal that is suitable for evaluation shall:

Question: “3. Explain in detail all pricing and estimating techniques;”

Item 3 requires explanation of pricing and estimating techniques but does not state where this information is to be provided within the proposal arrangement. Will the Government please provide information on where this explanation is to be provided within the proposal arrangement and include any page limitations?

Answer: Reference the answer to Question # 1 in Amendment 00001.

222. Reference: RFP 5.15.3.3 Price Proposal - Volume III; d) A price proposal that is suitable for evaluation shall:

Question: “4. Disclose the basis of all projections, rates, ratios, percentages, and factors in sufficient detail to facilitate the Streamlined Procurement Team’s (SLPT’s) understanding and ability to mathematically verify these estimating tools; “ Item 4 requires disclosure of the basis of projections, rates, ratios, percentages, and factors in sufficient detail. Please provide information on where this detailed information is to be provided within the proposal arrangement and include any page limitations?

Answer: Reference the answer to Question # 1 in Amendment 00001.

223. Reference: RFP 5.15.3.3 Price Proposal - Volume III; d) A price proposal that is suitable for evaluation shall:

Question: “5. Comply with FAR Clause 52.222-43, Fair Labor Standards Act and Service Contract Act-Price Adjustment (Multiple Year and Option Contracts). If prices include allowances for increased costs over time for which the clause at 52.222-43 does not provide a future equitable adjustment, please identify the increased costs being proposed in the Offeror’s price(s) and provide sufficient rationale to support the reasonability of the price(s) that include these additional allowances for increased costs.”

Item 5 requires sufficient rationale to support reasonability of price(s) if prices include allowances for increased costs over time but does not state where this information is to be provided within the proposal arrangement. Will the Government please provide information on where this rationale shall be provided within the proposal arrangement and include any page limitations?

Answer: Reference the answer to Question # 1 in Amendment 00001.

224. Reference: RFP 5.15.3.3 Price Proposal - Volume III; d) A price proposal that is suitable for evaluation shall:

Question: “6. Include a narrative portion that explains all judgmental elements of price projections and profit policies including any proposed price ceilings and team profit sharing arrangements;”

Will the Government please confirm if a narrative portion of the price proposal is required and if it is required, please provide information on where this narrative portion shall be provided within the proposal arrangement and include any page limitations?

Answer: Reference the answer to Question # 1 in Amendment 00001.

225. Reference: RFP 5.15.3.3 Price Proposal - Volume III; d) A price proposal that is suitable for evaluation shall:

Question: “7. Include an explanation for escalation rates that are lower or higher than the rate identified in the EPM workbook;“ Item 7 requires an explanation for escalation rates that are lower or higher than the rate identified in the EPM workbook, but does not state where this explanation shall be provided within the proposal arrangement. Will the Government please provide information on where this explanation shall be provided within the proposal arrangement and include any page limitations?

Answer: Reference the answer to Question # 1 in Amendment 00001.

226. Reference: RFP 5.16

Question: “Offeror’s proposal shall include a letter from their financial institution, on letterhead, identifying the Offeror’s line of credit and available balance.“ Will the Government provide instruction on where the financial institution letter is to be provided within the proposal arrangement?

Answer: Reference the answer to Question # 11 in Amendment 00001.

227. Reference: RFP 6.2

Question: We understand that the Government's intent is to not conduct price realism evaluations. Will the Government evaluate price risk in the price performance trade-off?

Answer: Reference the answer to Question # 59 in Amendment 00001.

228. Reference: Attachment 4.17, Table

Question: The ranges in this paragraph do no always align with the Wage Determination. For example the range for WSTF Secretary III is shown at $16 to $19 per hour while the WD for that position has a floor of $18.13. Similarly, the WSTF Administrative Assistant is shown at $22 to $25 while the WD shows a floor of $25.86 for that position.

Will the Government confirm that no rates lower than the SCA rates may be bid for any SCA labor category, even when the Attachment 4.17-provided range is below the WD floor for that labor category?

Answer: All proposals must be in compliance with the Service…