Q_A Digital Transformation Technologies and Processes_16 Dec 2021.docx

Digital Transformation Technologies and Processes (DTTP) Offeror Question and Answer Prepared 12/16/2021

Does a supporting information system platform require FedRAMP approval?

The FOA does not describe any particular certification nor minimum requirement on platforms used as part of DTTP. Adherance to such certifications and standards may factor in to risk assessment and/or ability to transition or adopt technology.

Beyond PII and standards privacy security, what other security requirements does the government expect for this system?

Minimum security standards are described in the SOO and FOA.

Does the platform require visualization of the capabilities being developed?

There is no specific visualization required. This program’s requirements describe the need for a consortium manager capable of a wide suite of execution on Digital Transformation programs.

Does the assert Government Purpose Rights for the consortia platform? Or just customary license?

The IP terms are described in the FOA. The government will have government purpose rights on consortium and project activity.

Can you provide a little bit more detail on what you expect as a business plan for self-sufficiency? We’re slightly confused on how that may work and what, if any, contract vehicle would be in place for incremental funding for projects to take place after the initial period of performance.

The Air Force desires business plans that indicate a consortium manager that can execute with varying levels of funding from multiple types of sources without impact to program effectiveness. It can be thought of as a measure of resilience to changes in funding. The cooperative agreement is currently the only vehicle envisioned to add projects to the consortium. The AFRL has extensive experience adding sponsored projects to a cooperative agreement. A consortium manager is always at liberty to seek additional funding and vehicles to complement this cooperative agreement.

On a similar note, how would you expect the consortium to operate long term? Is this an entity that exists to bid on future opportunities as a consortium, or is this an ongoing engagement that AFRL would add projects and funds to as they arise?

The expectation is yes on both fronts. A consortium ready to bid on opportunities, and ongoing engagement and direct AFRL projects. As always, caveats apply regarding availability of funding.

Is in-kind cost share or a discounted overhead rate an acceptable form of cost share for the consortium manager? For example, if the manager was able to discount their overhead rate to not charge for $0.5M over the course of the contract would that meet the criteria of expected cost share?

Yes, many forms of in-kind cost share are allowed and encouraged. The 2 CFR 200 describes allowable forms of cost share for an assistance instrument.

What do you envision as the path for carrying on successful pilots or research generated by the projects? For example, if one pilot is successful, is there a path for putting consortium members on another contract vehicle to continue the work?

The Air Force cannot make promises nor selections for future requirements and solicitations. However, follow on efforts via the consortium or outside vehicles are envisioned as potential transition methods.

When a consortium manager is chosen in 2022, will there be an opportunity to join the consortium as a participant?

Yes, subject to negotiation and member agreements between the consortium manager and the potential participant.