NOVASTAR Sections L and M_10Jun21.pdf

INSTRUCTIONS

Section L - Instructions, Conditions and Notices to Bidders

L-1 SPECIAL NOTICE TO OFFERORS

L-1.1 The exclusive responsibility for Source Selection will reside with the Government. Proprietary information submitted in response to this solicitation shall be clearly marked as such and will be protected from unauthorized disclosure as required by the Procurement Integrity Act, as amended (41 U.S.C. §§

2101-2107) (hereinafter referred to as “the Act”) as implemented in the Federal Acquisition Regulation

(FAR). Any unmarked proprietary information will be considered releasable under the restrictions of the

Freedom of Information Act.

L-2 FORMAL COMMUNICATIONS

L-2.1 Any formal communication such as requests for clarification, discussions, and information concerning this solicitation shall be submitted in writing by e-mail to the Contracting Officer (CO) at the address below:

AFLCMC/PZIE

Bldg 16, Room 121

Attn: Andrew Gill, Contracting Officer

Reference: FA8604- 21-R-B007 andrew.gill.7@us.af.mil

L-3 SUBMISSION OF PROPOSALS

L-3.1 The Offeror shall submit all UNCLASSIFIED portions of volumes I through IV in electronic format via DoD SAFE transmission, https://safe.apps.mil/. To request a drop off code for DoD SAFE please send an email to andrew.gill.7@us.af.mil and robert.bennett.42@us.af.mil and a drop off code will be provided within three (3) days following receipt. A drop off code must requested no later than 5 days before the proposal due date. The Offeror shall submit the CLASSIFIED portion of its proposal in accordance with paragraph L-5.9. The Offeror shall use separate files to permit rapid location of all portions, including subfactors, exhibits, annexes, and attachments, if any. The UNCLASSIFIED electronic copies of the proposal shall be submitted using the following instructions:

1. Electronic files shall be submitted via DoD SAFE. Please add the following as the subject line or as a note within the DoD SAFE submission: “Proposal No. FA8604-21-R-B007”.

2. Submit documents using Microsoft Office 2016 or later:

3. Word documents – Set "Save as type" to "Word Document (*.docx)"

4. Excel spreadsheets – Set "Save as type" to "Excel Workbook (*.xlsx)."

5. Submit PDF documents using only Adobe Acrobat XI (11) or later. Do NOT submit any documents in PDF format that are copied as "images." When creating PDF files always create to enable textual search and copy functions.

6. Do NOT submit documents using file compression software (such as .zip format).

Offerors are cautioned to strictly comply with all instructions within this solicitation to ensure submission of a complete proposal. Failure to furnish a complete proposal at the time of proposal submission may result in elimination from consideration for award. The Government will not accept any changes to an

Offeror’s proposal after the closing date of this solicitation unless requested by the Government (see FAR

15.208 for further information regarding late proposals).

mailto:andrew.gill.7@us.af.mil https://safe.apps.mil/ mailto:robert.bennett.42@us.af.mil

For all CLASSIFIED information, follow instructions in paragraph L-5.9. Classified Information.

L-4 DISPOSITION OF UNSUCCESSFUL PROPOSALS

L-4.1 In compliance with FAR Subpart 4.8, the Government will retain all unsuccessful proposals for the

Official Contract File.

L-5 PROPOSAL PREPARATION INSTRUCTIONS

L-5.1 The instructions below prescribe the format of proposals. Proposals shall include all of the information requested in the specific instructions. Failure to include all information requested may adversely affect the evaluation or result in rejection of the proposal.

L-5.2 A proposal that is orderly and sufficiently documented will enable the Government to easily understand and perform a thorough and fair evaluation. The Government may incorporate into this contract, by reference or full text, portions of the successful Offeror’s proposal submitted in response to this solicitation as revised and supplemented through the final proposal revision.

L-5.3 Proposal Format. A complete proposal consists of four (4) separate volumes: Executive Summary, Technical, Price, and Contract Documentation.

L-5.3.1 Page Format. The proposal shall be provided in Microsoft Word, Adobe PDF, or Excel Formats in accordance with L-3.1. Type size for text shall not be smaller than Times New Roman 12 point font, single column, normal proportional spacing and one inch (1”) margins (top, bottom, left and right).

Charts, tables, graphs, and figures shall be used only when absolutely necessary. The text for charts, tables, graphs, and figures shall be no smaller than Times New Roman 8 point font. Text lines and table lines of text shall be single-spaced. All page formatting requirements apply to any CLASSIFIED portion of the proposal.

L-5.3.2 Organization/Copies/Page Limit. Information submitted shall not exceed the page limits stated below for each volume. Evaluators will only read up to the maximum number of pages specified. If the page limit is exceeded, the pages in excess of the limit will be removed from the applicable volume and will not be considered as part of the evaluation. Page limitations are as follows:

Table 2.1

Volume ITO Paragraph Number Volume Title Security

Classification

Page

Limit

I L-7 Executive Summary Unclassified 10 pages

II L-8 Technical Top Secret SCI 165 pages

III L-9 Price Unclassified No Limit

IV L-10 Contract

Documentation

Unclassified No Limit

L-5.3.3 Page Limit for Technical Volume. The Offeror shall prepare the technical proposal as set forth in Table 2.2- Technical Volume below. Proposals shall adhere to the page limits set forth in Table 2.1.

Table 2.2 - Technical Volume

Evaluation Factor RFP Section L Section M

Entry Gate L-8.5 L-8.5 M-2.2

Program Management PWS paragraphs 2.0, 3.0, and

4.0 (including subparagraphs) L-8.6 M-2.3.1

Limitation on Subcontracting L-8.6.1 L-8.6.1 M-2.3.1.1

Subcontractor Management L-8.6.2 L-8.6.2 M-2.3.1.2

Organizational Conflict of

Interest L-8.6.3 L-8.6.3 M-2.3.1.3

IDIQ Management L-8.6.4 L-8.6.4 M-2.3.1.4

Human Resources PWS para 3.12 (including subparagraphs) L-8.6.5 M-2.3.1.5

Security PWS para 4.5 L-8.6.6 M-2.3.1.6

Technical Understanding and

Capability L-8.7 L-8.7 M-2.4

GEOINT PWS para 1.2.1 L-8.7 M-2.4

MASINT PWS para 1.2.2 L-8.7 M-2.4

SIGINT PWS para 1.2.3 L-8.7 M-2.4

HUMINT PWS para 1.2.4 L-8.7 M-2.4

OSINT PWS para 1.2.5 L-8.7 M-2.4

TECHINT PWS para 1.2.6 L-8.7 M-2.4

Air PWS para 1.1.1 L-8.7 M-2.4

Space PWS para 1.1.2 L-8.7 M-2.4

Counterspace PWS para 1.1.2 L-8.7 M-2.4

Cyberspace PWS para 1.1.3 L-8.7 M-2.4

Forces PWS para 1.1.4 L-8.7 M-2.4

Missiles PWS para 1.1.5 L-8.7 M-2.4

On-Premise, Cloud, & Hybrid Administration PWS para 3.6 L-8.7 M-2.4

Intelligence Scenario PWS para’s 1.1, 1.2, and 2.0

(including subparagraphs) L-8.8 M-2.5

L-5.3.4 What Counts as a Page. A page shall be an 8 ½” x 11” format in Microsoft Word or Adobe

PDF. All material shall be contained within the page limit identified for each volume, and all appendices, charts, graphs, diagrams, tables, photographs, drawings, etc., are included in the page count, with the exception of items stated in L-5.3.5.

L-5.3.5 Pages Not Included in Page Count. The glossary, cross reference matrix, and overview section

(for exceptions) will not be included in the page count. Covers for volumes, tables of contents, indices, title pages, and section dividers/tables will not be included in the page count if they are inserted solely to provide ease to the reader in locating parts/sections of the proposal. They will be counted if they contain any other information, e.g., diagrams, extraneous data, etc. Pages marked “This page intentionally left blank” will not be counted.

L-5.4. Response to Evaluation Factors. Offeror responses will be evaluated against the Technical

Subfactors defined in Section M, Evaluation Factors for Award. Using the instructions provided below, provide as specifically as possible the actual methodology you would use for accomplishing/satisfying these subfactors. All the requirements specified in the solicitation are mandatory. By your proposal submission, you are representing that your firm will perform all the requirements specified in the solicitation. It is not necessary or desirable for you to tell us so in your proposal. Do not merely reiterate or reformulate the requirements specified in the solicitation.

L-5.5 Proposal Validity Date. The proposal acceptance period is specified in Section A of the model contract/solicitation. The Offeror shall make a clear statement in Section A of the Contract Document

Volume IV that the proposal is valid until this date.

L-5.6 Late Offers. Offers or, as requested, amendments to offers received at the address specified for the receipt of offers after the exact time specified for receipt of offers may not be considered. The

Government may make a final determination regarding acceptability solely on the basis of the proposal as submitted without requesting any further information. However, if deemed necessary, and at its sole discretion, the Government may request additional information from Offerors clarifying or supplementing any proposal as submitted.

L-5.7 Discrepancies. If an Offeror believes that the requirements in these instructions contain an error, omission, or are otherwise unsound, the Offeror shall immediately notify the CO in writing with supporting rationale. The Offeror is reminded that the Government intends to award this effort based on initial proposals but reserves the right to enter into discussions if deemed necessary.

L-5.8 Price Information. All price information shall be addressed only in the Price Proposal Volume

(Volume III) . All dollar amounts provided in response to these instructions shall be stated in U.S.

currency in then year dollars. When completing the model contract, dollars for labor rates shall be rounded to the nearest penny. Proposed labor rates will be used to determine contract ceiling rates.

L-5.9 Classified Information. Volume II will include classified information, up to the TOP SECRET

Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) level. The Offeror must ensure classified volume is properly labeled and marked, conforming to the DD Form 254 provided in this solicitation. The classified volume may be delivered to NASIC via one of the following three methods: (1) submitted via JWICS email to robert.bennett@nasic.ic.gov (a NASIC Point of Contact will be provided for coordination of receipt of classified volumes); (2) mailed to NASIC as outlined in DoD Manual (DoDM) 5105.21, Vol 1 (dated 6

Oct 2020); or (3) hand carried to NASIC, 4180 Watson Way, WPAFB, OH 45433, using proper courier procedures as outlined in DoDM 5105.21, Vol 1. All proposals must be received by NASIC by 4 pm eastern on the proposal due date. The proper 2-line Defense Courier Service mailing address for TOP

SECRET SCI is:

452117-LV25

NASIC SSO

Offerors using the Defense Courier Service must allow adequate time for delivery. The Government is not responsible for late delivery of the proposal.

If the classified material contains only SECRET collateral information, it can be mailed as outlined in

DoDM 5200.01, Vol 3 (dated 28 July 2020) to:

NASIC/XOQ

4180 Watson Way

Wright-Patterson AFB, OH 45433-5648

Note: These instructions apply only to the classified volume of your proposal. This is the only portion that is allowed to be printed and hand-delivered. If you choose to print and hand-carry your Classified volume, you must provide three copies of your printed volume. Each printed copy of the volume shall be separately bound in a three-ring loose leaf binder which shall permit the volume to lie flat when open.

Staples shall not be used. All printed pages shall be in an 8 ½” x 11” format. No fold-outs should be included in the printed volume. All material shall be contained within the page limit identified for each volume, and all appendices, charts, graphs, diagrams, tables, photographs, drawings, etc., are included in the page count, with exception of items stated in L-5.3.5. Printed files must utilize the same formatting specified in paragraph L-5.3.1.

Additonally, electronic files on a compact disc (CD) can be hand delivered to NASIC. Delivery of hand carried volumes or CDs can be scheduled by emailing robert.bennett.42@us.af.mil. Delivery must be scheduled no later than one week (7 calendar days) prior to proposal submission due date. The

Government cannot guarantee a focal point will be available for last minute requests that are not scheduled ahead of time.

L-5.10 Cross Referencing. Each volume shall be written on a stand-alone basis so that its contents may be evaluated without reference to other volumes of the proposal. Information required for proposal evaluation which is not found in its designated volume will be considered omitted from the proposal.

Cross referencing within a proposal volume is permitted where its use would conserve space without impairing clarity.

L-5.11 Indexing. Each volume shall contain a detailed table of contents to delineate the subparagraphs within that volume. Each volume shall contain easily identifiable headers for subparagraphs within the volume. The table of contents does not count toward the page limitations for each volume.

L-5.12 Glossary of Abbreviations and Acronyms. Each volume shall contain a glossary of all abbreviations and acronyms used, with an explanation for each. Glossaries do not count toward the page limitations for their respective volumes.

L-5.13 Labeling. A cover sheet shall be included in each volume, electronic or printed, clearly marked as to volume number, title, solicitation identification and the Offeror's name. Be sure to apply all appropriate markings including those prescribed in accordance with FAR 52.215-1(e), Restriction on Disclosure and

Use of Data, and 3.104-4, Disclosure, Protection, and Marking of Contractor Bid or Proposal Information and Source Selection Information.

L-5.14 Receipt of Proposal Volumes. Technical and price information shall be submitted in separate

Technical and Price Volumes. The executive summary and contract documentation information shall be submitted in separate Executive Summary and Contract Documentation Volumes. All volumes are due on the proposal due date.

L-6 EXCEPTIONS

L-6.1 The Government intends to award this effort based on initial proposals, but reserves the right to enter discussions if deemed necessary; therefore, Offerors are advised that taking exception to any requirements specified in this solicitation may result in the Government finding the proposal unacceptable. Clarification of Government requirements shall be handled by submitting questions/recommendations within 15 calendar days after final solicitation release date. If Offerors still take exception to any of the requirements specified in this solicitation (Sections A through M, to include the Performance Work Statement (PWS) and attachments), clearly identify each exception in the overview section of the appropriate volume along with a complete explanation of why the exception was taken and the resulting benefit to the Government. Exception to solicitation requirements may require the

Government to amend the solicitation to reflect a changed requirement. The Government will consider the absence of a stated exception to mean the Offeror takes no exception to the applicable volume and the proposal will be evaluated as submitted.

L-7 INSTRUCTIONS FOR VOLUME I, Executive Summary

L-7.1 Executive Summary Volume. In the executive summary volume, the Offeror shall provide the following information:

L-7.1.1 Narrative Summary. The Executive Summary shall be a concise narrative summary of the entire proposal, including significant risks, and a highlight of any key or unique features, excluding price. The salient features should tie in with Section M evaluation factors/subfactors. Any summary material presented here shall not be considered as meeting the requirements for any portions of other volumes of the proposal.

L-7.1.2 Table of Contents. The Executive Summary shall contain a Master Table of Contents of the entire proposal. This Table does not count toward the total page limit for Volume I.

L-7.1.3 Compliance Matrix. The Offeror shall include a Compliance Matrix in the Executive Summary.

A sample Matrix is at Attachment L-2. The Matrix does not count toward the 10-page total limit for

Volume I. The Compliance Matrix shall indicate which paragraphs of the proposal address specific evaluation factors.

L-7.1.4 Organizational Chart. The Offeror shall include an Organizational Chart in the Executive

Summary. The chart shall include corporate information on the Offeror and the Program Office responsible for execution of the contract following award. The Organizational Chart does not count toward the total page limit for Volume I.

L-8 INSTRUCTIONS FOR VOLUME II, TECHNICAL

L-8.1 Instructions. To facilitate evaluation, the Technical Volume shall be specific, detailed, and complete to clearly and fully establish that Offerors have a thorough understanding of NOVASTAR requirements. The following will be considered unacceptable: statements that Offerors understand, can comply with, or will comply with the PWS (including referenced AF publications); statements paraphrasing the PWS or parts thereof (including applicable AF publications); and phrases such as

“standard procedures will be employed” or “well known techniques will be used.” Offerors should note that data submitted prior to proposal submission will not be considered in the Government’s evaluation;

therefore, such data should not be relied upon or incorporated into the Technical proposal by reference.

L-8.2 Technical. The purpose of this section is to set forth, in the most comprehensive manner, Offerors’ understanding of the program requirements and to demonstrate their ability to meet the evaluation requirements of Section M, Factor 1. This section shall present a clear, concise description of how

Offerors plan to meet award requirements. This section shall not contain any pricing data.

L-8.3 Experience. Experience is defined in this solitication as an Offerors’ participation in work that is similar in scope, magnitude of effort, and complexity. For all listed experience the Offeror shall include a description of the work performed by the Offeror, any relevant and recent Contractor Performance

Assessment Reporting System (CPARS) ratings, and the period in which the work was performed. All cited work must have occurred within the last five years for at least six months of performance.

L-8.4 Format and Specific Content. All specific Technical subfactors set forth in Section M and instructions set forth in Section L must be addressed. Describe your proposed approach to meeting the requirements of each Technical subfactor.

L-8.5 Volume Organization. The Technical volume shall be organized according to the following general outline:

-Table of Contents

-List of Tables and Drawings

-Glossary

-Entry Gate

-Factor 1 – Technical

-Subfactor 1 – Program Management

Limitations on Subcontracting

Subcontractor Management

Organizational Conflict of Interest

IDIQ Management

Human Resources

Security

-Subfactor 2 – Technical Capability and Understanding

-Subfactor 3 – Intelligence Scenario

L-8.6 Entry Gate: Top Secret Facility Clearance. The Offeror must provide a copy of its DCSA

Verification inquiry from the National Industrial Security System (NISS) showing that it possesses a Top

Secret facility clearance at the time of proposal submission.

L-8.7 Subfactor 1: Program Management. Discuss the Offeror’s practices to successfully meet the

NOVASTAR management requirements of the NOVASTAR PWS in accordance with the six Measures of Merit identified in Section M.

L-8.7.1 Limitations on Subcontracting. Discuss the Offeror’s approach to comply with the Limitations on Subcontracting IAW FAR 52.219-14.

L-8.7.2 Subcontractor Management. Discuss the Offeror’s approach to subcontractor management. The

Offeror’s approach must reference when subcontracting arrangements will be utilized for coverage of the mission areas and disciplines identified in PWS paragraphs 1.1 – NASIC Missions (including subparagraphs) and 1.2 – NASIC Disciplines (including subparagraphs). The Offeror must identify if the subcontractor qualifies as a small business under NAICS code 541715. Identify the Offeror’s approach to manage subcontractors utilized on the contract.

L-8.7.3 Organizational Conflict of Interest. Discuss Offeror’s approach for detecting, disclosing, avoiding, and mitigating Organizational Conflict of Interest (OCI) issues and risks IAW FAR Part 9.5, including those resulting from teaming arrangements. Identify process to provide employee conflict of interest training and compliance with non-disclosure policy. Identify specific Prime experience or staff qualifications to substantiate Offeror’s capability to successfully address OCI issues.

L-8.7.4 IDIQ Management. The Offeror must provide its approach to manage the NOVASTAR IDIQ contract. The Offeror must identify a management presence physically located within 25 miles of Wright-

Patterson Air Force Base. Cite specific Prime experience as appropriate to substantiate the Offeror’s capability to maintain continuity of mission support during transition following award and successfully manage the NOVASTAR IDIQ contract. Cite specific Prime experience managing 15 or more concurrent task orders on an IDIQ and/or individual services contracts.

L-8.7.5 Human Resources. The Offeror must provide its approach to attract, recruit, hire, train and retain qualified management and technical personnel within 25 miles of Wright-Patterson Air Force Base for at least 75% of the work to ensure the Offeror’s team possesses or can readily obtain personnel with the appropriate security clearance, levels of education, experience and expertise to accomplish NOVASTAR tasks. Identify Prime approach to ensure continuation of services during personnel absences due to sickness, leave, voluntary or involuntary termination from employment such that impact to the

Government is minimal. Furthermore, the approach must discuss the Offeror’s ability to effectively manage and ensure continuity of services during 24/7 shift work; travel; personnel issues; absences due to sickness, leave, and voluntary or involuntary termination from employment such that disruption to mission accomplishment is minimal. Provide approach for maintaining currency of any required certifications or specialized training.

L-8.7.6 Security. Describe Offeror’s procedures for obtaining appropriate company and personnel security clearances and safeguarding classified materials. Identify process for ensuring personnel understand and comply with applicable security requirements for a Top Secret (TS)//SCI contract. Cite the specific process and policies in place to address security-related issues, to include violations and infractions (including actions taken to address actual violations/infractions in the past, if applicable). Cite specific experience as appropriate to substantiate Offeror’s capability to manage a TS//SCI contract.

L-8.8 Subfactor 2: Technical Capability and Understanding. Discuss the Offeror’s technical capability and understanding, as well as the Offeror’s processes, protocols, and methodologies for the scope of work identified in PWS paragraph 2.0 - Scope for each NASIC mission and discipline as described in PWS paragraphs 1.1 – NASIC Missions, and 1.2 –NASIC Disciplines. Identify the business size for subcontractors that qualify as a small business under NAICS code 541715. The Offeror must describe its process to complete the scope of work within each NASIC mission and discipline, as described in PWS paragraphs 1.1 – NASIC Missions, 1.2 – NASIC Disciplines, and 2.0 - Scope (including subparagraphs).

Include a completed Capabilities Matrix (Attachment L-1); an example of a completed table is included in section Attachment L-1. To complete the Capabilities Matrix (Attachment L-1) do the following:

1. Create a list of all companies associated with your proposal and their business size under NAICS code

541715 and assign a number to each company (ex: 1-Prime Offeror, Small Business, 2-Subcontractor 1, Large Business, 3-Subcontractor 2, Small Business, etc.).

2. Enter the associated number for each company that will execute the scope of work for each cell of the table.

L-8.9 Subfactor 3: Intelligence Scenario. Respond to the scenario provided in the classified appendix to the RFP; instructions for the scenario are included in the classified addendum. To receive a copy of the classified scenario send an email to robert.bennett.42@us.af.mil and andrew.gill.7@us.af.mil with the

Offeror’s company name, address, and CAGE code using the subject line “NOVASTAR Scenario”. This information will be used to verify the facility clearance and storage capability prior to distribution of the scenario. Once the Offeror’s facility clearance and storage capability are verified the Government will either 1) schedule an in-person appointment to receive a physical copy of the scenario or 2) transmit electronically via JWICS email. Printed copies of the scenario may be hand carried from NASIC, using proper courier procedures as outlined in DoDM 5105.21, Vol 1, and stored at a contractor facility with the appropriate storage capability/clearance. See NOVASTAR Solicitation DD254 for additional safeguarding and storage information.

L-9 INSTRUCTIONS FOR VOLUME III, PRICE VOLUME

L-9.1 General Instructions. Compliance with these instructions is mandatory and failure to comply may result in rejection of the proposal. Data or information submitted in the Price Volume shall be limited to information the Offeror considers essential to document or support its price position. No pricing data or information shall be included in any other volume, including cover letters. If price information is included elsewhere in the documentation, the proposal may be deemed unacceptable and the proposal may not be evaluated. The Offeror shall comply with the intent of the pricing instructions in supplying information that is current, timely, and in full support of the proposal. Exceptions or deviations will not be accepted.

The instructions for preparation of the content of the Price Volume shall not take precedence over requirements of other clauses of this solicitation, Public Law, or the FAR, as supplemented.

L-9.2 Pricing Data Requirements. The CO has determined there is a high probability of adequate price competition in this acquisition. Upon examination of the initial offers, the CO will review this determination and if, in the CO’s opinion, adequate price competition exists, no additional price information will be requested and certification under FAR 15.406-2 will not be required. IAW FAR

15.403-1(b) and 15.403-3(a), information other than pricing data may be required to support price reasonableness. Information shall be provided IAW FAR 15.403-5. If, after receipt of proposals, the CO determines that adequate price competition does not exist, FAR 15.403-3(b) procedures will be followed.

L-9.3 Attachment L-3, Pricing Matrix. Offerors shall provide the following per RFP Section B, Pricing

Table paragraph, using the format specified in Attachment L-3, Pricing Matrix. The table is provided as the template/format for submission; the burden of providing accurate and complete pricing proposals

(total evaluated price) using the format provided in Attachment L-3, Pricing Matrix is the responsibility of each Offeror. All prices shall be in “Then Year” dollars, that is, inflated, not constant (Base Year) dollars.

The hours listed in this Pricing Matrix are weighted to reflect the percentage of hours historically used by labor category to accomplish NASIC’s mission.

L-9.3.1 Hourly Labor Rates. The Offeror shall provide loaded hourly labor rates for each labor category;

round these prices to the nearest penny. The Offeror shall provide the basis of its labor and overhead rates to include submission of Forward Pricing Rate Proposal/Agreements (FPRP/A), if applicable. The

Offeror shall provide a concise and well organized narrative of the basic pricing approach and methodology used to generate matrix prices. The Offeror’s narrative should provide sufficient detail and correlate to and/or supplement information elsewhere in the Price volume to add clarity but avoid repetition or conflict to demonstrate price credibility and to enable the evaluation for reasonableness, unbalanced pricing, and completeness. The proposal must be sufficiently detailed to address reasonableness, completeness, and unbalanced pricing with the understanding that the burden of proof for credibility of proposed prices rests with the Offeror. Proposed loaded hourly labor rates will be the maximum allowable rates proposed throughout the duration of this contract for CPFF task orders;

however, they may be discounted by the Offeror at the task order level. Hourly rates for FFP, CPIF, FPIF, T&M, or any combination thereof, will be negotiated at the task order level. There is no guarantee that all labor categories will be utilized over the course of the entire NOVASTAR effort at the levels anticipated at this time.

L-9.3.2 Professional Compensation. In accordance with FAR 22.1103 and FAR 52.222-46, offerors shall submit for evaluation a total compensation plan setting forth proposed salaries and fringe benefits for professional employees working on the contract. Supporting information will include data, such as recognized national and regional compensation surveys and studies of professional, public and private organizations, used in establishing the total compensation structure. Plans indicating unrealistically low professional employee compensation may be assessed adversely as one of the factors considered in making an award.

The Professional Employee Compensation Plan required by FAR 52.222-46 shall be submitted as part of the Price Volume (Volume III) and shall be no more than 15 pages in total. Subcontractors can submit separate professional compensation packages directly to the Government following the same procedures as the Offeror. Subcontractors should indicate in their submission which Offeror they are partnering with.

The compensation plan pertains to all professional employees who will do work under the contract. If a populated joint venture is formed (a joint venture in which the employees are employed by the joint venture itself and not by any individual joint venture partner), the joint venture must submit the

Professional Employee Compensation Plan for the joint venture. If an unpopulated joint venture is formed, each individual joint venture partner must submit its own Professional Employee Compensation

Plan.

L-10 INSTRUCTIONS FOR Volume IV: Contract Documentation

L-10.1 Section A. Complete in its entirety the “Offeror” portion of the Standard Form (SF 33). An official having the authority to contractually bind your company shall sign the SF 33 IAW FAR 4.102.

The SF 33 must bear an original signature of an authorized representative for the Offeror.

L-10.2 Section K. Complete all required representations and certifications or indicate if information is contained in beta.sam.gov.

L-10.3 Professional Employee Compensation. Professional Employee Compensation Plans required by

FAR 52.222-46 should be submitted under Volume III.

L-11 DEBRIEFING OF OFFERORS

L-11.1 Successful or unsuccessful Offerors may request debriefings by providing a written request to the

CO. Debriefings shall be conducted in accordance with FAR 15.505 for pre-award debriefings and FAR

15.506 for post-award debriefings. Class Deviation 2018-O0011, Enhanced Postaward Debriefing Rights, will also be used to conduct post-award debriefings.

Section M. Evaluation Criteria

M-1 BASIS FOR CONTRACT AWARD

M-1.1 Lowest Price Technically Acceptable (LPTA). This acquisition will utilize the LPTA source selection procedures in accordance with Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) Part 15, Contracting by

Negotiation, as supplemented by the Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS), the

Air Force Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (AFFARS), and DoD Source Selection Procedures dated 31 Mar 2016. These regulations are available electronically at the FAR website, www.acquisition.gov. The Government will select the proposal(s) with the lowest evaluated price(s) from among those rated “Acceptable” for all Technical subfactors, deemed responsible in accordance with

FAR Subpart 9.1, as supplemented, and conforms to the solicitation’s requirements (to include all stated terms, conditions, representations, certifications, and all other information required by Section L of this solicitation). While the Government will strive for maximum objectivity, the source selection process, by its nature, is subjective; therefore, professional judgment is implicit throughout the entire process.

M-1.2 Number of Contracts to be Awarded. The Government intends to award approximately six (6) contract(s) for the NOVASTAR IDIQ. The Government reserves the right to award to fewer than six acceptable offerors if deemed more efficient for execution.

M-1.3 Correction Potential of Proposals. The Government will consider, throughout the evaluation, the

"correction potential" of any deficiency. The judgment of such "correction potential" is within the sole discretion of the Government. If an aspect of an Offeror's proposal does not meet the Government's requirements and is not considered correctable through discussions, the Offeror may be excluded/eliminated from the competitive range.

M-1.4 Discussions. The Government intends to award a contract without discussions. Therefore, each initial offer should contain the Offeror’s best terms from a price and technical standpoint. However, the

Government reserves the right to conduct discussions with Offerors, IAW FAR 15.306, if deemed in its best interest.

If, during the evaluation period, it is determined to be in the best interest of the Government to hold discussions, Offeror responses to Evaluation Notices (ENs) and the Final Proposal Revision (FPR) will be considered in making the source selection decision. If the proposal has been evaluated as acceptable at the time discussions are closed, any changes or exceptions in the Final Proposal Revision are subject to evaluation and may introduce risk that the proposal will be determined unacceptable and ineligible for award.

M-1.5 Solicitation Requirements, Terms and Conditions. Offerors are required to meet all solicitation requirements, such as terms and conditions, representations and certifications, and technical requirements, in addition to those identified as factors or subfactors. Failure to comply with the terms and conditions of the solicitation may result in the Offeror being ineligible for award. Offerors must clearly identify any exception to the solicitation terms and conditions and must provide complete supporting rationale. The

Government reserves the right to determine any such exceptions unacceptable and the proposal, therefore, ineligible for award.

M 1.6 Grossly Deficient. The Government may reject any proposal from this competition prior to evaluating the proposal against the Evaluation Factors if an initial assessment of the proposal shows the proposal to be grossly deficient. A grossly deficient proposal is a proposal that fails to address essential requirements of the RFP or fails to furnish information demonstrating compliance with mandatory requirements set forth in the RFP and does not represent a reasonable initial effort by the Offeror to address the requirements of the RFP.

M-2 EVALUATION FACTORS

M-2.1 Evaluation Factors and Subfactors. The following evaluation factors and subfactors will be used to evaluate each proposal. The Government will evaluate Technical subfactors for acceptability.

Entry Gate: Compliance

Factor 1: Technical

Subfactor 1: Program Management

Subfactor 2: Technical Capability and Understanding

Subfactor 3: Classified Intelligence Scenario

Factor 2: Price

M-2.2 Entry Gate: Compliance. Top Secret Facility Clearance: This factor evaluates whether the

Offeror has obtained a Top Secret facility clearance indicated by the DCSA National Industrial Security

System (NISS).

Measure of Merit: Entry Gate: Compliance. Top Secret Facility Clearance: This requirement is met when the proposal provides written documentation the company has obtained a Top Secret facility clearance. If an Offeror fails to provide evidence that it possesses a Top Secret Facility

Clearance at the time of proposal submission, the Offeror will be considered ineligible for contract award and eliminated without further evaluation of its proposal.

M-2.3 Factor 1: Technical. The Government’s technical evaluation team will evaluate the technical proposals on a pass/fail basis, assigning one of the ratings described below for each subfactor. Proposals must meet all of the Measures of Merit within a given subfactor in order for the subfactor to be rated

“Acceptable.” Any subfactor evaluated as “Unacceptable” will render the entire proposal unacceptable and, therefore, unawardable. Only those proposals determined to be technically acceptable, either initially or as a result of discussions, will be considered for award. However, the Offeror is reminded that the Government intends to award this effort based on the initial proposal, as received, without discussion.

The proposals shall be evaluated against the following technical subfactors:

M- 2.3.1 Subfactor 1: Program Management. This subfactor evaluates the Offeror’s management approach to fulfill the requirements of the PWS in accordance with the Measures of Merit below.

M-2.3.1.1 Measure of Merit 1: Limitations on Subcontracting. This Measure of Merit is met when the

Offeror describes a sound approach complying with the Limitations on Subcontracting IAW FAR 52.219-

14.

M-2.3.1.2 Measure of Merit 2: Subcontractor Management. This Measure of Merit is met when the

Offeror describes a sound approach to manage subcontractors utilized on the contract.

M-2.3.1.3 Measure of Merit 3: Organizational Conflict of Interest. This subfactor is met when the proposal describes an approach that ensures detection, disclosure, avoidance and mitigation of OCI issues and risks, to include those resulting from teaming arrangements, at the NOVASTAR IDIQ contract and task order levels. The approach must include adequate employee conflict of interest training and compliance with non-disclosure policies and directives and include specific Prime experience or staff qualifications to substantiate the Offeror’s capability.

M-2.3.1.4 Measure of Merit 4: IDIQ Management. This Measure of Merit is met when the proposal describes a sound approach to manage the NOVASTAR contract, maintain continuity of mission support during transition following award, and cites specific Prime experience as appropriate to substantiate

Offeror’s capability to successfully manage fifteen or more annual task orders on an IDIQ and/or individual services contracts.

M-2.3.1.5 Measure of Merit 5: Human Resources. This Measure of Merit is met when the proposal describes a sound approach to perform approximately 75% of the work within 25 miles of Wright-

Patterson Air Force Base; reflects a sound management strategy and the ability to attract, recruit, hire, train, and retain qualified management and technical personnel to meet contract and task order requirements.

M-2.3.1.6 Measure of Merit 6: Security. This Measure of Merit is met when the proposal describes a sound approach for security procedures and processes. The Offeror must provide specific Prime experience as appropriate to substantiate the Offeror’s capability to manage a TS//SCI contract.

TABLE 2.2 - TECHNICAL RATINGS

Rating Description

Acceptable Proposal meets the requirements of the solicitation.

Unacceptable Proposal does not meet the requirements of the solicitation.

M-2.4 Subfactor 2: Technical Capability and Understanding. This subfactor evaluates the Offeror and its identified subcontractors’ (as noted) technical capabilities to successfully fulfill the requirements of the

PWS paragraphs 1.1 – NASIC Missions, 1.2 – NASIC Disciplines, and 2.0 - Scope (including subparagraphs), in accordance with the Measure of Merit below.

M-2.4.1 Measure of Merit 7: Technical Capability and Understanding. This Measure of Merit is met when the proposal demonstrates a sound technical capability and understanding of the scope identified in

PWS paragraph 2.0 – Scope for each NASIC Mission and Discipline as listed in PWS paragraphs 1.1 –

NASIC Missions, 1.2 -NASIC Disciplines (including subparagraphs), including completion of the matrix in Attachment L-1 identifying tasks to be completed by the prime and/or subcontractor(s) in the matrix.

M-2.5 Subfactor 3: Intelligence Scenario. See classified addendum for intelligence scenario.

M-2.5.1 Measure of Merit 8: Intelligence Scenario. This Measure of Merit is met when the Offeror demonstrates sound technical knowledge and understanding in response to the intelligence scenario.

M-2.6 Factor 2: Price Volume.

M-2.6.1 General. The Price proposal will be evaluated for (1) completeness, (2) reasonableness, (3) unbalanced pricing, and (4) Total Evaluated Price in accordance with FAR 15.404. The Total

Evaluated Price (TEP) will be calculated using the Pricing Matrix contained in RFP Attachment L-3. The

TEP will be calculated by multiplying the proposed fully burdened labor rate for each labor category by the Government provided estimated hours for each period for both on-site and off-site labor. These values will be summed to arrive at the TEP. The TEP will be used for evaluation purposes only. Offerors whose price is determined to be incomplete or unreasonable will not be considered for award. Additionally, an offer may be rejected if the CO determines unbalanced pricing poses an unacceptable risk to the

Government. Evaluation of options shall not obligate the Government to exercise such options.

M-2.6.2 Completeness. The Government will review the pricing submissions for completeness and compliance with Section L of the solicitation.

M-2.6.3 Reasonableness. The Offeror’s proposal will be evaluated, using one or more of the techniques defined in FAR 15.404, in order to determine if it is reasonable. For a price to be reasonable, it must represent a price to the Government that a prudent person would pay in the conduct of competitive business. Normally, price reasonableness is established through price analysis techniques as described in

FAR 15.404. For additional information see FAR 31.201-3.

M-2.6.4 Unbalanced Pricing. The Government will conduct an analysis for unbalanced pricing and may determine a proposal to be inelegible for award should the proposed priced items be materially unbalanced IAW FAR 15.404-1(g). Unbalanced pricing exists when, despite an acceptable TEP, the price of a proposed line item is significantly overstated or understated as indicated by the application of price analysis techniques. Unbalanced pricing may increase performance risk and could result in payment of unreasonably high prices. Offerors are cautioned that a proposal may be rejected if unbalanced pricing exists and the Contracting Officer determines that the lack of balance poses an unacceptable risk to the

Government.

M-2.6.5 Evaluation of Compensation for Professional Employees. The Government will evaluate the

Professional Employee Compensation Plan in accordance with FAR 52.222-46.

Attachment L-1

Section L

Attachment L - 1 – Capabilities Matrix

Discipline/

Mission

Program Elements Research Development Sustainment Production

GEOINT Electro-Optical

Synthetic Aperture Radar

Multi Spectral Imaging/Hyper Spectral Imaging

Thermal Infrared

Overhead Persistent Infrared (OPIR)

Light Detection and Ranging

Ground Moving Target Indicator (GMTI)

Full Motion Video (FMV)

MASINT Electro-Optical

Over-the-Horizon Radar

Line of Sight Radar

Space Object Identification

Non-Cooperative Target Identification (NCTI)

LASER

Radio Frequency

Bistatics

Company Number Company Name Company Size

(Small or Large)

SIGINT -

HUMINT -

OSINT -

TECHINT Overall Weapon System Analysis and Characterization

Software Exploitation

Field Programmable Gate Array/Complex Programmable

Logic Device Exploitation

Printed Circuit Board Exploitation

Binary Extraction of Embedded Devices

Computer Forensics

Cyber Vulnerability analysis

Anti-Tamper Identification and Analysis

Tool Development in Support of Weapon System

Exploitation

Digital Signal Measurement and Analysis

Radio Frequency System Characterization

Radio Frequency Signal Measurement and Analysis

Radio Frequency Signature Prediction Support

Electro Optical/Infrared Signature Prediction Support

Computer-aided Design Modeling

Material Properties Measurement and Analysis

Air All-source System Analysis

All-source Force Analysis

Modeling & Simulation

Space All-source System Analysis

All-source Force Analysis

Modeling & Simulation

Counterspace All-source System Analysis

All-source Force Analysis

Modeling & Simulation

Cyberspace All-source System Analysis

All-source Force Analysis

Modeling & Simulation

Forces Disruptive Technology Analysis

Intel Support to US Acquisition

Missiles All-source System Analysis

All-source Force Analysis

Modeling & Simulation

On-Premise, Cloud & Hybrid

Administration

Database (ex. Oracle MariaDB, MongoDB, etc.)

Application Servers (ex. WebLogic, Apache, NJIX, Oracle HTTP Server, etc.)

Commercial Off-the Shelf Tools (ex. Tableau, Elastic

Search, ServiceNow, etc.)

Container Development

Attachment L-2

Attachment L - 2 – Compliance Matrix

Evaluation Factor RFP Section L Section

M Technical Proposal Paragraph Number

Entry Gate L-8.5 L-8.5 M-2.2

Program Management PWS paragraphs 2.0, 3.0, and

4.0 (including subparagraphs) L-8.6 M-2.2.1

Limitation on Subcontracting L-8.6.1 L-8.6.1 M-2.2.1.1

Subcontractor Management L-8.6.2 L-8.6.2 M-2.2.1.2

Organizational Conflict of

Interest L-8.6.3 L-8.6.3 M-2.2.1.3

IDIQ Management L-8.6.3 L-8.6.4 M-2.2.1.4

Human Resources PWS para 3.12 (including subparagraphs) L-8.6.5 M-2.2.1.5

Security PWS para 4.5 L-8.6.6 M-2.2.1.6

Technical Understanding and

Capability L-8.7 L-8.7 M-2.2.2

GEOINT PWS para’s 1.2.1 & 2.0 L-8.7 M-2.2.2

MASINT PWS para’s 1.2.2 & 2.0 L-8.7 M-2.2.2

SIGINT PWS para’s 1.2.3 & 2.0 L-8.7 M-2.2.2

HUMINT PWS para’s 1.2.4 & 2.0 L-8.7 M-2.2.2

OSINT PWS para’s 1.2.5 & 2.0 L-8.7 M-2.2.2

TECHINT PWS para’s 1.2.6 & 2.0 L-8.7 M-2.2.2

Air PWS para’s 1.1.1 & 2.0 L-8.7 M-2.2.2

Space PWS para’s 1.1.2 & 2.0 L-8.7 M-2.2.2

Counterspace PWS para’s 1.1.2 & 2.0 L-8.7 M-2.2.2

Cyberspace PWS para’s 1.1.3 & 2.0 L-8.7 M-2.2.2

Forces PWS para’s 1.1.4 & 2.0 L-8.7 M-2.2.2

Missiles PWS para’s 1.1.5 & 2.0 L-8.7 M-2.2.2

Attachment L-2

On-Premise, Cloud, &

Hybrid Administration PWS para’s 2.0 & 3.6 L-8.7 M-2.2.2

Intelligence Scenario PWS para’s 1.1, 1.2, and 2.0

(including subparagraphs) L-8.8 M-2.3

Attachment L-3

Attachment L - 3 – Pricing Matrix

The following illustrates the information required. Each year (5 base years and 5 option years) will have an on-site (Government location) and an off-site (Contractor location) portion. The final spreadsheet will have the NOVASTAR labor categories and the NOVASTAR historical multipliers filled in.