Q A_for_Review_of_Draft_PWS_AG-3187-S-14-0005.docx

AG-3187-S-14-0005

Q&A for RFI Q1. What solution(s) are currently being evaluated? (i.e., Oracle, Kenexa, Workday, Ultimate, etc.)

A1. Although we do not believe the answer to this is pertinent to the tasks as outlined in the RFI, as we are not seeking developer resources for any of the initiatives, the majority are written on a .NET (DOT NET) platform.

Q2. While evaluating the PWSs it appears the awardee of Human Resource Technology Implementation and Advisory Support Services contract could have an OCI in pursuing FS HR application development opportunities.

A2. That is a correct. It is possible that supporting certain efforts under the contract would result in a non-compete requirement for future Forest Services systems procurements related to that support.

Q3. What are the seven applications already implemented? Do they all meet all of the objectives for the applications?

A3. Applications already implemented include staffing, ER/LR, CRM, time and attendance, and several smaller, complementary applications. They all currently meet FS objectives.

Q4. How do the additional five applications described in the Draft PWS relate to the six HR Initiatives described in the Draft Task Order?

A4. They refer to the same things – an additional initiative was identified while preparing the Draft Task Order.

Q4.1 The six HR Initiatives are at various stages, though none is in the initial planning stage.

Correct.

Q4.2 Several initiatives are scheduled to be in development concurrently.

Correct.

Q4.3 Have the activities described for the support sought in this Draft PWS been performed for the HR Initiatives to date? If so, by an incumbent or federal staff?

Yes. FS HRIT uses a blended staff of federal and contractor resources to support these initiatives.

Q5. If the activities have been performed, does the USDA FS anticipate that the selected PMO+ vendor will transition responsibilities from the current responsible party?

A5. Yes. It is anticipated that there will be a transition of responsibilities; however, all project documentation is maintained by the federal PMO Project Manager.

Q6. If activities have not been performed, does the USDA FS anticipate that the selected vendor will develop or review/edit artifacts for prior SDLC stages that would have been prepared if this support contract had been in effect at the start of the HR Initiatives.

A6. It is not anticipated that the selected vendor would review/edit artifacts already prepared and accepted by the Government.

Q7. Does USDA FS anticipate a single award to move forward with all five additional applications, or a staggered approach that breaks up the implementation of the additional five applications over time or by application/initiative?

A7. That has not yet been determined. Vendors should propose their approach for consideration by the Government.

Q8 If multiple awards are issued and multiple contractors work on the remaining HR Initiatives, how will the processes and artifacts across HR Initiatives be standardized as to format, content and quality?

A8. All processes and artifacts are standardized through the oversight and direction by the federal PMO Project Manager.

Q9 Do standard processes and artifact templates exist currently for all vendors to follow?

A9. Yes.

Q10 Is there another entity that will establish standards and templates?

A10. In general, the federal PMO follows the PMI standards. The federal PMO Project Manager makes the final determination as to standards and templates.

Q11. Does the USDA FS anticipate assigning one vendor to initially produce standards and templates?

A11. No.

Q12. Some activities, particularly for Strategy Development, Change Management and Capital Planning, are most effective when performed for the complete HR business process and technology environment, as opposed to for a single Initiative or application. Has the USDA FS considered assigning a single vendor to perform these activities?

A12. Vendors may propose their preferred approach for consideration by the Government.

Q13. What support, if any, does the National Finance Center provide for the HR Initiatives and applications?

A13. NFC maintains the system of record for all HR transactions.

Q14. When awarding a large IDIQ contract under a total small business set-aside for services, does the requirement at FAR 52.219-14(c)(1) of at least 50 percent of costs shall be expended for employees of the concern apply to each Task Order that is awarded or just to the overall IDIQ?

A14. The requirement applies at the task order level since each task order stands on its own as an award under the IDIQ.

Q15. Section 2 Background, states:

“Previous contractor support has assisted FS in managing and implementing HR Information Systems (HRIS) applications within the HRM Enterprise. Currently, seven applications have been implemented to-date with five additional applications being implemented.”

Please provide the name of the incumbent contractor for this work, and the number of labor hours currently assigned.

A15. Currently, there are two prime contractors supporting this work, Deloitte Consulting LLP and Concurrent Technologies Corporation. Between the two contracts, there are approximately 9 FTEs supporting these efforts.

Q16. Please provide the names of the incumbent contractors for (a) the current 7 HRIS applications, and (b) the 5 HRIS applications under development.

A16. The SaaS vendors/products are not part of this solicitation. This contract is specifically focused on support for the client organization (Forest Service) in selection, implementation and client-side management of these initiatives.

Q17. Task Order 1: Task 4.4.1. Please further describe and clarify the working relationship for this task between (a) a vendor that has already been selected to develop one or more of the 5 HRIS applications, and (b) this vendor who will be selected to perform under this task order.

A17. The SaaS vendors/products are not part of this solicitation. This contract is specifically focused on support for the client organization (Forest Service) in selection, implementation and client-side management of these initiatives.

Q18. Please clarify if the prices quoted should be on-site or off-site? Will the government be providing laptops for all personnel on this contract or will that be contractor-provided? If contractor is providing the equipment are there specific technical specifications that FS needs the contractor to follow?

A18. The prices should be quoted as off-site. The Government will provide laptops for positions in which access to the Forest Service network is required. For contractor provided computers, there are no technical specifications other than some deliverables with require Microsoft word or MS Excel.

Q19. Which positions are considered “Key” for this Task Order?

A19. Key Personnel for this initial task order constitutes all individuals proposed to work on this effort in which resumes were submitted in the competitive solicitation.