Attachment_I_Amendment_0002_Questions.Responses.docx

RFP G14PS00135, Amendment 0002, Questions.Responses

1. Attachment A5, Fort Collins Labor Categories, p. 6. Scientific Writer I, II and III have no PS or SCA designation. Please clarify which we should use.

Attachment A5 Fort Collins Labor Categories for Scientific Writer I, II, and III are designated as Professional Service and are revised herein by reference.

2. Page 66, Section L.12 Factor D Price, Paragraph 1. Our question relates to PMO costs at the Midwest and FORT servicing areas.

2a. For the FORT, will the program manager costs be paid for in a separate task order or should it be included in the hourly rate of the PM?

A separate task order will be issued for Program Management 2b. For the Midwest Servicing Area, will the program manager costs be paid for in a separate task order or should it be included in our overhead in the hourly rate bid for each of the requested labor categories?

A separate Program Management task order is not being issued for Midwest Servicing Area.

3. Must offerors bid on all of the sample task orders in all of the regions.

C.2 Contractors may propose on one or multiple areas.

L.12 Proposal Instructions – Factor D Price “In order to be considered for award of a specific contract area or program, the price and additional information requested in the pricing area on the Attachment B pricing sheet must be provided for each task order within the applicable area or program.”

4. Must offerors bid on every region?

C.2 “Contractors may propose on one or multiple areas”

5. Must offerors bid on every sample task order within a region.

L.12 Proposal Instructions – Factor D Price “In order to be considered for award of a specific contract area or program, the price and additional information requested in the pricing area on the Attachment B pricing sheet must be provided for each task order within the applicable area or program.”

6. Are the sample task orders representative (only for proposal evaluation purposes) or will USGS be awarding these task orders along with the award of the basic contract.

Unknown at this time

7. Are offerors’ proposed rates representative (only for proposal evaluation purposes) or are they not-to-exceed rates for the duration of the basic contract.

These are rates that will be used for the duration of the contract.

8. In Attachments A-1 and A-2 had labor categories included where all of the locations are blacked out. Does this mean that we are not to provide pricing for these labor categories? If we are not supposed to price these labor categories, why have they been included in the spreadsheet?

L.12 Proposal Instructions – Factor D Price “In order to be considered for award of a specific contract area or program, a fully loaded hourly labor rate must be provided for every hourly rate block that is not shaded on the applicable Attachment A worksheet.”

The additional contract area or programs that are currently shaded have been identified for possible use in the future. When a labor rate is required for these shaded areas during contract performance a rate will be established through negotiations.

9. Attachments B1A, B1B, B1C, B1D, B1E, B1F, B1G, B1H, B2A, B2B, B2C, B4A, B4B, B4C, B5A, B5B, B5C. Sample Task Orders do not state pricing type as FFP or Labor Hour. Can you please clarify the pricing type for the sample task orders?

If a Task Order is not designated as FFP or LH, the offeror is to read and understand the requirements, and determine if FFP is appropriate.

10. Attachment B3A Sample TO SW. This sample task states TOs “A” and “C” as Firm Fixed Price and “B” as Time and Materials. Can you please provide confirmation that is correct?

Correct

11. Section C.4 Reporting Requirements, p. 19. Reporting has a requirement for reporting hours/dollars remaining on the contract. Since funds are provided on individual task orders, do you mean dollars remaining on the authorized ceiling of the contract?

C.4 Reporting Requirements states “Commensurate with the monthly status report, the contractor shall prepare a monthly Performance and Cost Report, depicting monthly and cumulative hours and dollars expended by labor category, hours/dollars remaining available on the task order, and a statement as to whether there are sufficient hours/dollars available to complete the requirement.”

12. Attachment B3A Sample TO SW. FTE/Hours are stated to historically be 2080 for an FTE. Given that our rates include the cost of holidays and personal time off we base our rates on 1920 productive hours per year. Thus for an FTE we would charge the government 1920 hours not 2080 hours. Is the government intent for contractors to bid an FTE for 1920 productive hours?

Throughout the solicitation and its attachments, any reference to the quantity of hours that represent a Full Time Equivalent (FTE) is hereby revised to 1920.

13. Attachment B4A Sample TO MW, Attachment B5A Sample TO FORT. For the administrative tasks, we are aware that USGS requires coverage for all working hours. Is the government intent for contractors to bid an FTE for 2080 hours of productive hours, or our standard FTE 1920 hours?

Throughout the solicitation and its attachments, any reference to the quantity of hours that represent a Full Time Equivalent (FTE) is hereby revised to 1920.

14. The tasks listed in the PWS and Sample Task Order for Southwest Region, Section III., pages 2-4, and again in Section V., pages 5-7, are general standard industry duties relating to geospatial, IT, data management, etc. The evaluation criteria for key personnel (Section M.3., Subfactor B-2, page 68 of the RFP) of “…evaluated based on the individual’s qualifications and experience relative to the mission of USGS…” limits the competitor pool and rewards incumbents. Would the government consider changing or deleting the past USGS experience evaluation criteria for key personnel?

At Section M.3, Subfactor B-2 (Evaluation Factors - Management Approach - Key Personnel), it is not intended that the offeror address the qualifications of personnel who will perform work under individual task orders, unless those personnel will also be managing the IDIQ contract. The Key Personnel component of the offerors Management Plan is intended to evaluate the personnel the offeror proposes to manage and administer the IDIQ contract and its task orders. The offerors Key Personnel will be evaluated based, in part, on a proposed individual’s qualifications and experience relative to the mission of USGS. The referenced evaluation factor remains unchanged.

15. Does the government plan to award the Task Order described in the Southwest Region Sample TO once the Southwest Region IDIQ contract is awarded?

Unknown at this time

16. The PPQ at Attachment F is a different format than described in RFP Section L.11., page 65, Factor C, and does not have sections A and B. Are we to assume Attachment F is the correct PPQ format and comply with the instructions of filling out specific numbered sections as described at the top of the form?

Yes, the Past Performance Questionnaire format at Attachment F is correct. Where the instructions for completing and submitting the questionnaire differ between the RFP Section L.11, Factor C and the form at Attachment F, the form at Attachment F takes precedence. The exception to this is the due date for questionnaires. RFP Section L.11, Factor C provides that questionnaires are to be submitted on or before the due date of the solicitation. This takes precedence over the form at Attachment F, which states that questionnaires are to be submitted no later than July 8, 2014.

17. Instructions at the top of the PPQ form at Attachment F state to return to the government NLT 8 July 2014. Are we to assume this is actually 12 November 2014, per RFP Section L.9, and the SF 1449, Block 8? May we simply change the date on the form to avoid confusion for the clients who will complete the form?

RFP Section L.11, Factor C provides that questionnaires are to be submitted on or before the due date of the solicitation. This takes precedence over the form at Attachment F, which states that questionnaires are to be submitted no later than July 8, 2014. Offerors may change the date on the form at Attachment F to avoid confusion.

18. Section H.2. (a), page 32, of the RFP states, the SBA is the prime contractor on this contract. Is SBA really the prime contractor for this award or is there another term to describe SBA’s involvement in the award/contract?

The clause language is based on the Partnership Agreement between the SBA and the U.S. Department of the Interior.

19. In the Southwest Region Sample Task Order, pages 2-4, Section III., sub-tasks a. and b. are FFP; sub-task c. is T&M. For our pricing to provide the best value to the government, can you tell us what labor categories (or what work from the tasks) identified on page 8 of the Task Order are in Denver and which are in Reston? Even though there are no SCA positions in the Southwest Region, there is certainly a cost of living difference across the country that enters into pricing.

Subject Matter Specialist II (R) Science and Geospatial Development System Analyst II (D) Science and Geospatial Development

20. The Table on page 63, Section L.10., of the RFP indicates the Cover Page and each Factor of the Volumes are separate files, as this is an electronic submittal. Is this correct and there is not one file per volume, or one file for the entire proposal? May we combine the files into a folder for the submittal?

It is intended that the Cover Page and each Factor within the Volumes be separate files. There should not be one file per volume or one file for the entire proposal. Within a Volume, the files may be combined into a folder for the submittal, such as assembled into a .pdf portfolio. If files are combined within a Volume, each file shall be clearly delineated and easy to extract. It is the offerors responsibility to ensure all applicable files are included within the Volume.

21. We understand that there are 5 incumbent contracts. Would the new award be for 5 vendors or more?

C.2 The intent of this solicitation is to award up to six stand-alone contracts to support USGS science centers within a designated servicing area and/or specific USGS program. Contractors may propose on one or multiple areas.

22. Are all the incumbents eligible to compete for this 8(a) set-aside?

All eligible 8(a) firms are eligible to compete for this solicitation.

23. Is the USGS satisfied with the performance of all the incumbents?

This information is procurement sensitive and not available for disclosure outside necessary Government personnel. Disclosure of such information could cause harm both to the commercial interest of the Government and to the competitive position of the incumbent.

24. We understand that the tasks involved range over a very wide horizon, like Administrative, Program Management Services, Research/Science, Data and Information, Management, Computer Systems Administration, Operations, and Maintenance, Geospatial Applications, Modeling, and Associated Technologies, and web and Database Applications. Is there a division of task areas among the incumbent vendors or is it like everybody does everything?

This information is not available.

25. Do the incumbent vendors have approved sub-contractors/ sub-contractor staff working for the USGS?

This information is not available.

26. Could you please provide details of spending, year-wise, for different areas of work?

This information is not available.

27. Is a Cover Letter allowable? If so, is there a maximum page length? Or, will the cover letter count against the existing page counts?

See Section L.10 Submission of Offer – Proposal Organization and Format

28. Are Title Pages to Volumes required allowed and if so will they count as part of the page count?

Title Pages to Volumes are not required. If used, they will not count as part of the page count.

29. Are employee handbooks required for subcontractors? If so, how does that impact page length?

Employee handbooks are not required for subcontractors.

30. Is there a standard font expected such as no less than 11 pt, singled space, and normal fonts such as Times New Roman, Arial, Helvetica, etc.?

Font shall be no smaller than 10 Times New Roman, and all margins shall be no smaller than 1”.

Smaller font size may be used on chart, graphs, diagrams and schematics, however all text must be legible and easily read.

31. Should any Spreadsheet files be returned as a Excel file or a PDF of that excel file?

Spreadsheet files shall be submitted in a usable excel format.

32. Should any Word Document files be returned as Word Document file or a PDF?

Any Word Document file may be submitted in either Word or PDF format.

33. If past performances are already in PPIRS/CPARS, can the offerer complete the first section of the Past performance Questionnaires and mark the scoring/2nd part in the PPQ as see CPARS for Contract #/Task Order #?

Yes, a past performance evaluation that is available in PPIRS/CPARS will be considered in lieu of the completed Past Performance Questionnaire submitted by the offeror’s client. To be considered, the offeror must complete the first section (items 1 – 13) of the Past Performance Questionnaire at Attachment F and indicate the evaluation is available in PPIRS or CPARS. For each PPIRS/CPARS evaluation to be considered in lieu of a completed PPQ from a client, the offeror shall include the completed first section of the PPQ as a separate file within Volume C of the proposal.

34. The past performance questionnaire document template (Attachment F) specifies a due date of July 8, 2014. Elsewhere the due date is November 12, 2014. Please confirm the correct date.

RFP Section L.11, Factor C provides that questionnaires are to be submitted on or before the due date of the solicitation. This takes precedence over the form at Attachment F, which states that questionnaires are to be submitted no later than July 8, 2014. Offerors may change the date on the form at Attachment F to avoid confusion.

35. In the case where a past performance we provide is in the role of subcontractor, should it include the subcontractor or prime contractor's business address?

The Past Performance Questionnaire should include sufficient information so the client is aware of the entity for whom the past performance is being evaluated and so the government is aware of the offeror to whom the Past Performance Questionnaire applies.

36. Is there a page limit on the Description Narrative field in the PPQ form (Attachment F)?

No

37. Page 65, Subfactor B-2 Which position(s) are required as key personnel?

The Key Personnel component of the offerors Management Plan is intended to evaluate the personnel the offeror proposes to manage and administer the IDIQ contract and its task orders.

38. Page 65, Subfactor B-2 For Key Personnel, will a commitment letter be required?

In accordance with Section L.11, Subfactor B-2, “Attach a signed statement of availability for each person.”

39. Can the incumbent current salaries/wages be made available against existing positions with current names masked (anonymous)?

This information is not available.

40. During Transition, will there be opportunity to interview staff to help in understanding incumbent transition planning for continuation or replacement?

It is incumbent on the awardee to coordinate and conduct interviews of potential personnel.

41. For Contract Area 3 (Southwest), which labor categories are required for Reston, VA as it is assumed not all positions will be required?

L.12 Proposal Instructions – Factor D Price “In order to be considered for award of a specific contract area or program, a fully loaded hourly labor rate must be provided for every hourly rate block that is not shaded on the applicable Attachment A worksheet.”

42. To support the Government's assessment of overall pricing, will the Government desire an explanation of methodology and terms? If so, would this go in the management approach or a new supplement to the labor categories (i.e. methodology to labor category basis, ODCs, Travel, PoP, GFP, GFE, Representations and Certifications acknowledgement, liability insurance, business systems, existing rate schedule re-use/basis, invoicing, explanation of discounts, etc.)

No explanation of pricing methodology and terms is requested for purposes of price assessment. It is incumbent on the offeror to determine the appropriate information to submit in accordance with the non-price evaluation factors.

43. On all Attachment A, Labor Categories, on all it is assumed GIS Specialist VI should be GIS Specialist IV Yes, if ‘GIS Specialist VI’ appears in the list of labor categories between ‘GIS Specialist III’ and ‘GIS Specialist V’, it is intended to be ‘GIS Specialist IV’.

44. Sample Task Order - For Contract Area 3 (Southwest, Attachment B3A Sample TO.SW), the sample Task Order, on page 8, which positions are historically based in Denver and which are Reston? This impacts the resulting FFP Pricing?

See Question 19 above

45. In regards to L.11, of Sections A-M on page 61, the first paragraph notes:

The content of the proposal shall be sufficiently specific, detailed, and complete to demonstrate clearly and fully that the offeror has a thorough understanding of the requirements for, and technical problems inherent in, the requirements of the solicitation.

That said, several of the Sample Task Orders are well more than 4 pages, but task order responses are required to be 4 pages or less (Per L.10). To achieve page count, the response will need to roll-up some of the requirements cited in the Sample Task Orders. Will Sample Task Order responses not citing all specific requirements, but rolled up to achieve 4 pages still be deemed compliant if this is the case, or will the proposal accept that the page count cannot be more than the page length of the Sample Task Order itself (i.e. if the Sample TO is 8 pages, then the Sample Task Order Response could not be more than 8 pages).

L.10 Factor A Page Limit has been changed from 4 pages to 8 pages per sample task order and is revised by reference herein.

46. RFP Page 20, Section C.9: Meetings, Briefings and Workshop. These required meetings appear to be required at the Task Order level, yet this is in the IDIQ contract, which could imply that there are other performance requirements outside of a given task order. Can the Government please clarify the intent of this section?

This requirement is intended to apply at the task order level.

47. RFP Page 21, Section C.12. paragraph 1 states “All applicable licenses shall be obtained by the contractor.” What licenses is the Government referring to? This statement immediately follows a reference to computing and IT equipment, it implies a reference to software licenses which is typically a Government furnished item that already comes with the assigned Government-owned computing equipment. Can the Government please clarify the intent of this statement?

In C.12 Paragraph 1 the following is removed herein by reference “All applicable licenses shall be obtained by the contractor.”

48. Page 41, H.22 “Contract Maximum” – we ask that the Government review and revise the contract ceiling limits as needed. Typically we have seen contract limits set at twice the known contract needs so that the contract can absorb new future requirements that are unknown at this time.

Contract 2/Area 2 Northeast has a ceiling limit of $7M/year. The historical for this area is $6.6M. Will the Government consider increasing the ceiling limit to accommodate for unknown future increases in requirements? Typically we have seen contract limits set at twice the known contract needs, which would imply a required ceiling of $13.2M.

Contract 4/Area 4 Midwest has a ceiling of $2.8M/year but the historical values exceed this amount at $3.7M. Will the Government adjust the ceiling to reflect this higher amount that has been needed on this effort of $3.7M? Will the Government consider increasing beyond the $3.7M as a ceiling to accommodate for unknown future increases in requirements? Typically we have seen contract limits set at twice the known contract needs, which would imply a required ceiling of $7.4M.

The government’s stated maximum limits remain unchanged.

49. There are numerous job categories that are subject to the Service Contract Act (SCA) per the issuance of the Department of Labor (DOL) wage tables attached to the RFP. How will the government verify that proposers are fully compliant with SCA minimum wage and fringe requirements?

The government will consider the SCA provisions when conducting price analysis.

50. Sample Task Order B3A, page 2, very last line of III.a. states “This task is firm fixed price.” In the same TO, page 4, 5th paragraph down states, “This task is Time and Materials.” Is any element of this Task Order time and materials or cost type? Or are all sample TOs FFP?

Specific tasks in any task order may be either designated as firm fixed price, time and materials, or undesignated.

51. On Attachment D, Servicing Area Map, NGTOC is identified as Contract 6 and FT Collins as Contract 5. In Attachment H, Servicing Area Historical Data, it is reversed. RFP Page 43 agrees with the Servicing Area Map. Can you please correct the error and re-issue?

Attachment H is incorrect and is corrected herein by reference to reflect NGTOC is identified as Contract 6 and FT Collins as Contract 5.

52. Where in the proposal does the government want proposers to provide proof of a government approved accounting system such as a letter from DCAA?

This is not required.

53. Are offerors required to respond to all the sample task orders for each service area?

See Question 3 above

54. Are offerors required to provide a proposal for each service area?

See Question 4 above

55. Can offerors respond to multiple service areas?

See Question 4 above

56. What is the estimated transition period for each service area?

Individual task orders within each area will be transitioned as applicable. There is no established transition period for each service area.

57. What is the preferred font and type size for the proposal, tables and graphics?

Font shall be no smaller than 10 Times New Roman, and all margins shall be no smaller than 1”.

Smaller font size may be used on chart, graphs, diagrams and schematics, however all text must be legible and easily read.

58. Does USGS want a cover letter for each service area proposal?

See L.10 Submission of Offer – Proposal Organization and Format

59. In the “Northeast Labor Categories” spreadsheet attachment, many of the labor categories are missing “education and “years’ experience” requirements. Would you consider supplying this information for categories where it’s missing?

No additional education and years experience information will be provided.

60. In the “Northeast Labor Categories” spreadsheet attachment, should the SCA Occupational Code for Excel Line 85, “Technician III,” be “30083”?

Yes, Attachment A2 Northeast Labor Categories is revised herein by reference: The SCA Occupational Code and Title for Technician III are revised to 30083 Engineering Technician III.

61. Reference: L.10 - SUBMISSION OF OFFER – PROPOSAL ORGANIZATION AND FORMAT, G14PS00135 UCF Sections A-M.docx, page 64 Question: Proposal instructions for the Organization of factor B-2 - Management Approach – Key Personnel indicate that 3 pages are allotted for this section with the caveat that “(page limitation does not apply to resume(s) and signed statement(s) of availability)”. However, Section L.11 - PROPOSAL INSTRUCTIONS on page 65 indicates that for Subfactor B-2 Key Personnel, offerors are only to “Provide the name and resume for the person(s) proposed to fulfill the key personnel structure described in Subfactor B-1. Attach a signed statement of availability for each person.”

Please clarify if offerors have 3 pages to discuss the qualifications of its Key Personnel for managing the requirements of this contract (not including the resume and signed statement of availability), or if offerors are only to provide a resume and signed statement of availability for Subfactor B-2.

Subfactor B-2 of Section L.11 is revised as follows:

Subfactor B-2 Key Personnel Provide the qualifications and experience for the person(s) proposed to fulfill the key personnel structure described in Subfactor B-1. Provide the name and resume for the person(s). Attach a signed statement of availability for each person.

62. Reference: C.16 FEDERAL INFORMATION SECURITY MANAGEMENT REQUIREMENTS (Some tasks may require different security levels which will be defined at the task order level), G14PS00135 UCF Sections A-M.docx, page 23 Question: Will the government provide references to the governing FISMA documents by number so that the documents can be reviewed by proposers. Is the intent of this section to alert the proposers that FISMA compliance is a requirement or will the awardee be required to prepare FISMA documentation for all of the categories listed in Section C.16?

The intent of Section C.16 is to notify prospective vendors of FISMA requirements, which are at the task order level. Depending on task order requirements different FISMA approvals will be required during issuance of task orders.

63. Section C, C3 Performance Work Statement, Page 13 of 70: How many key personnel will be needed to perform the listed tasks in Section C3? Any additional resumes for non-key staff are required? If so, should these resumes be included as well?

The number of key personnel needed to perform the tasks at C3 will not be provided to the offerors. Resumes for personnel not designated by the offeror as key personnel will not be considered.

64. Section L, Subfactor B-2 Key Personnel, Page 65 of 70: States the 3 page limit excluding the resumes and commitment letters. Can you please clarify is there any page limit on resumes?

There is no page limit for resumes.

65. Section L, Factor C Past Performance, Page 65 of 70: Can offerer shall submit more than 3 past performance references? If so, are there any restrictions as regard to the number of Prime or subcontractor past performance evaluations?

There are no maximum restrictions for Past Performance Questionnaires. There are no limitations on how many of an offeror’s Past Performance Questionnaires are to be submitted on behalf of the proposed prime contractor or subcontractor.

66. How much of the work should be carried on-site and off-site at the contractor’s facility?

Typically, work performed for each task order will be conducted on-site at the government facility or as otherwise indicated on the task order. Other work performed by the contractor that is not in conjunction with a specific task order is not anticipated to be performed on-site at a government facility.

67. Are there an incumbent on this contract in each of its Servicing Area? If so, please provide the incumbent name, current contract number, length, and value of contract award for each vendor.

This information is not available.

68. Is this solicitation a multiple IDIQ contract for each Servicing Area? If so, how many contracts are going to be awarded?

It is intended that each Servicing Area be awarded one IDIQ contract. There will not be multiple contracts awarded for any one Servicing Area.

69. When would be the USGS contract award declared, and what would be the expected date for the contractor to commence the work?

The anticipated contract start date is February 1, 2015. The anticipated contract award date is unknown at this time.

70. Can the Program Manager be billed to the project?

A separate task order will be issued for Program Management under Contract 5 - Fort Collins, and a separate sub task will be issued for Program Management under Servicing Area 3 – Southwest.

A separate Program Management task order is not being issued for Servicing Area 1 – Southeast, Servicing Area 2 – Northeast, Servicing Area 4 – Midwest and Contract 6 – NGTOC.

71. Is the current staff being paid in accordance with the current SCA labor rates?

If contractor personnel are currently performing work subject to SCA under a USGS contract, then SCA labor rates apply to the respective contract.

72. What is the estimated time for all task orders to be released to the new contractor?

There is no established timeline for task orders to be issued to an IDIQ awardee. Task orders may be issued at any time after contract award.

73. Does the agency have a recommended time frame for transition?

Individual task orders within each area will be transitioned as applicable. There is no established transition period for each service area.

74. How long does the DOI/USGS clearance process take? Should that be included in the transition plan?

Approximately 30 days, depending on applicant completing all required documentation and background clearance. It will be the responsibility of each offeror to determine what should be in their proposal regarding the transition approach.

75. Page 11, Section 2, Contract 3 – Area 3 / Southwest Serving Area Is there an incumbent for the work currently being performed for the Southwest servicing area? If Yes, then who is the incumbent and are they eligible to bid?

Information on incumbent contract performance is not available. All eligible 8(a) firms may compete for this solicitation.

76. Page 63, Section L.10 Regarding the construction of the file names, is the bidder allowed to add their corporate identifier (name) to each file name to identify the files to the specific bidder?

The bidder may add their name or corporate identifier to a file name as long as the information prescribed for the File Name is included.

77. Page 63, Section L.10 Is a table of contents counted against the page limitation of a page limited section?

Yes

78. Page 63, Section L.10 The Volume III table of nomenclature and contents for the Price proposal does not include item 1 under paragraph 1 of section L.12 on page 65 of 70, i.e.,

1. Signed and completed solicitation package including acknowledgement of amendments (if any).

Where would the government like this package to appear and how would USGS prefer it be named?

The offeror should submit the information required by Section L.12 paragraph 1 as a separate file attachment. There is no prescribed file name.

79. Page 63, Section L.10 Given the language for Factor D: Price for science and technical support labor categories, is the offeror able to provide the requested information in your supplied Excel file appropriately renamed?

Yes, usable excel format.

80. Page 65, Section L.12 Is a cover letter acceptable as part of :

1. Signed and completed solicitation package including acknowledgement of amendments (if any).

Yes

81. Page 65, Section L.12 What is the preferred naming convention for:

1. Signed and completed solicitation package including acknowledgement of amendments (if any).

The offeror should submit the information required by Section L.12 paragraph 1 as a separate file attachment. There is no prescribed file name.

82. Page 3, Attachment B3A Due to the nature of the requirements, would USGS consider reevaluating Task B: Data Synthesis and Analysis under the Sample Task Order for the Southwest Servicing area as Time & Materials instead of Firm Fixed Price?

No, Task B has historically been performed as firm-fixed price.

83. Page 9, Attachment B3A Is an offeror able to present additional amended tables to accommodate different fee types (Time and Materials and Firm Fixed Price) while using the table on page 9 as a summary table?

Yes

84. SF1449 Block 8, Page 1 Given the scope and quantity of task orders required for this solicitation, and to ensure the highest caliber of responses, will the government consider granting additional time for offerors to prepare and deliver proposals?

See any amendments issued for extension of proposal due date.

85. Section C.3 Performance Work Statement, 2.a Program Management Services, Page 14 Will the government confirm whether or not onsite Program Management personnel should be considered as Key Personnel on the Task Order level as well as the IDIQ level?

The offeror must determine personnel it proposes to utilize as key personnel. See question 66 for additional information.

86. Section C.16 Federal Information Security Management Requirements, Page 23 Are the costs associated with these requirements the responsibility of the government or the contractor?

Any FISMA requirements that apply to a specific task order will be the responsibility of the contractor.

87. Section F.6 Unscheduled Closures - Labor Hours, and F.7 Unscheduled Closures - Fixed Price, Page 27 Will the government clarify its intention with respect to payment of labor hours and fixed price costs resulting from unscheduled facility closures? Also, how will cost comparisons be made between companies with accounting systems that include these hours as indirect or fringe elements versus companies that intend to incur and invoice those costs directly?

When awarded, each task order will identify contract type and will contain the applicable government unscheduled closure clause.

As proposed prices are to include both direct and indirect costs, the accounting for these hours as indirect or direct will be transparent to the government.

88. Section F.6 Unscheduled Closures - Labor Hours, Page 27 Does the government require an accounting system that is certified by a third party, such as DCAA? Will the government give preference for such an accounting system?

No requirement, no preference.

89. Section L.10, Submission of offer, Page 63 The proposal organization and format do not allow for an overview or executive summary, without which we are limited in our ability to introduce our company and/or our team to the customer. Will the government consider adding a place and page count for such an overview/executive summary?

No

90. Section L.10, Submission of offer, Page 63 Are there any restrictions on the minimum font size in the formatting of the proposal?

Font shall be no smaller than 10 Times New Roman, and all margins shall be no smaller than 1”.

Smaller font size may be used on chart, graphs, diagrams and schematics, however all text must be legible and easily read.

91. Section L.10, Submission of offer, Page 63 Will the government confirm that each portion of a volume shall be submitted as a separate file -- for example, Volume I shall consist of 5 distinct files, and Volume III shall have 4 distinct files? Are the Sample TO proposals within each Area to be combined into a single file for submission, or separated into individual files?

It is intended that the Cover Page and each Factor within the Volumes be separate files. There should not be one file per volume or one file for the entire proposal. Within a Volume, the files may be combined into a folder for the submittal, such as assembled into a .pdf portfolio. If files are combined within a Volume, each file shall be clearly delineated and easy to extract. It is the offerors responsibility to ensure all applicable files are included within the Volume.

92. Section L.10, Submission of offer, Page 63 Does the government have a preferred software and version for proposal submission (such as MS Word 2003, PDF, Excel, etc.)?

No, however all spreadsheet files shall be submitted in a usable excel format.

93. Section L.11, Factor C, Page 65 Will the government confirm that our customers do not need to fill out multiple PPQs if they are providing a reference for multiple proposals?

This is correct.

94. Attachment A(x) Labor Categories Currently there is contract staff in locations that are not listed in the pricing, such as Atlanta. Similarly, there are contract staff in locations for which the pricing spreadsheet cells are blacked-out. Will the support requirements associated with these locations be handled through contract modifications after award, or through a separate contract action?

Yes, any requirements that arise in locations that are not priced in the Labor Category attachment will be priced after award.

95. Attachment B1A Sample Task Order Contract 1, Page 6 It appears there is a clause missing at the end of this statement. “Training is expected, except for routine (i.e., mandatory for all team members and people working in the building) safety and/or IT security online classes for DOI.” Will the government clarify the ending of the statement?

Attachment B1A Sample Task Order, Section III.D (Training paragraph 3) is revised herein by reference to state “Training is not expected, except for routine ….”

96. Attachment B1B Sample Task Order Contract 1, Page 6 It appears there is a clause missing at the end of this statement. “Training is expected, except for routine (i.e., mandatory for all team members and people working in the building) safety and/or IT security online classes for DOI.” Will the government clarify the ending of the statement?

Attachment B1B Sample Task Order, Section III.D (Training paragraph 3) is revised herein by reference to state “Training is not expected, except for routine ….”

97. Attachment B1E Sample Task Order Contract 1, Page 4 The QASP and PWS indicate a monthly report to be submitted to the task order, but do not define the requirements of said monthly report. Will the government provide the monthly reporting requirements for this task?

Additional information is not available.

98. Attachment B2B Sample Task Order Contract 2, Page 4 Will the government verify that the date for Deliverable 1 should be March 2015 and not March 2016 as indicated?

The date remains unchanged.

99. Attachment B2B Sample Task Order Northeast, Page 9 Will the government provide the historical labor category and level of effort support for this task?

This information is not available.

100. Attachment B2C Sample Task Order Northeast, Page 11 Will the government provide the Contract Labor Category equivalent for the GIS/Remote Sensing labor category indicated in the Task Order?

This information is not available.

101. Attachment B2C Sample Task Order Northeast, Page 11 Will the government provide the Contract Labor Category equivalent for the Database Consultant labor category indicated in the Task Order?

This information is not available.

102. Attachment B2C Sample Task Order Northeast, Page 11 Will the government provide the Contract Labor Category equivalent for the Assistant Geologic Sampling Technician labor category indicated in the Task Order?

This information is not available.

103. Attachment B4A Sample Task Order Midwest, Pages 2-3 With the implementation of FBMS and Concur, several tasks identified in this Task Order appear to include outmoded procedures. Are these still the work responsibilities of the administrative staff for which we should provide innovative approaches to performance?

The response to this question will be addressed in a separate amendment.

104. Attachment B4A Sample Task Order Midwest, Page 3 Task 6 indicates the Fiscal Year Close Outs should occur in March, June and September. Should there also be a closeout in December?

The response to this question will be addressed in a separate amendment.

105. Attachment B5A Sample Task Order Contract 5, Pages 11-13 It appears the numbering of tasks does not correspond to the task numbers in the PWS. Will the government provide correction or clarification of numbering of Tasks 5, 6 and 7 in the QASP?

The response to this question will be addressed in a separate amendment.

106. Attachment B5A Sample Task Order Fort Collins, Page 14 Will the government provide the Contract Labor Category equivalent for the General Clerk I labor category indicated in the Task Order?

This information is not available.

107. Attachment B5B Sample Task Order Fort Collins, Page 9 Will the government provide the Contract Labor Category equivalent for all ADP Labor Categories indicated in the Task Order?

This information is not available.

108. Attachment B6A NGTOC Sample Task Order Since we are providing labor rates and it is possible the rates will be different between Rolla, MO, Denver, CO, and Reston, VA, will the government provide information on the labor categories and the number of FTEs that have historically worked in each of those locations?

The response to this question will be addressed in a separate amendment.

109. Attachment B6A NGTOC Sample Task Order, Section I.2 Applicable Documents; Attachment B6B NGTOC Sample Task Order, Section I.2 Applicable Documents; Attachment B6C NGTOC Sample Task Order, Section I.2 Applicable Documents, Page 1 of each These sample Task Orders reference two (2) Applicable Documents as attachments: "Information Technology Security Requirement Summaries" and "Section 508 Compliance documentation requirements." However, neither document is provided as an attachment to any of the task orders. Will the government provide these documents?

The response to this question will be addressed in a separate amendment.

110. Attachment F: Past Performance Questionnaire, Page 1 The Past Performance Questionnaire template currently indicates that the due date is “no later than Tuesday, July 8, 2014”. Will the government provide a revised template or directions for updating?

RFP Section L.11, Factor C provides that questionnaires are to be submitted on or before the due date of the solicitation. This takes precedence over the form at Attachment F, which states that questionnaires are to be submitted no later than July 8, 2014. Offerors may change the date on the form at Attachment F to avoid confusion.

111. How much time is allocated for Transition of the basic contract?

Individual task orders within each area will be transitioned as applicable. There is no established transition period for each service area.

112. If a contractor has Transition costs, where are they to be priced in the proposal?

It is up to the offeror to determine where best to include all costs.

113. Are there going to be site visits to any/all of the 6 regions?

No

114. RFP Page 19, Section C.3.8 Please confirm which specific positions require PMP certification, e.g. Program Manager I, II, and/or III? Also, please verify whether any other management positions listed in the Labor Category tables require PMP, e.g. Research Manager I, II, and/or III?

The response to this question will be addressed in a separate amendment.

115. RFP Page 65, Section L.11 and Attachment F, Factor C Past Performance Attachment F is the format for Past Performance Questionaires (PPQ), and states they are due July 8, 2014. L.11, Factor C Past Performance states PPQs are due on or before the due date of the solicitation. Assuming this is an administrative error, is a new Attachment F going to be published, or can offerors make the correction?

RFP Section L.11, Factor C provides that questionnaires are to be submitted on or before the due date of the solicitation. This takes precedence over the form at Attachment F, which states that questionnaires are to be submitted no later than July 8, 2014. Offerors may change the date on the form at Attachment F to avoid confusion.

116. RFP Pages 64, 65, 68; Section L.11, Subfactor B-1 Management Plan, and Subfactor B-2, Key Personnel; and M.3, Subfactor B-2, Key Personnel L.11 under Subfactor B-2 Key Personnel says to ONLY "Provide the name and resume for the person(s) proposed to fulfill the key personnel structure described in Subfactor B-1." However, the second bullet of evaluation criteria in M-3 for subfactor B-2 says the government will evaluate "specific duties the individual will perform on the contract." Section L specifies duties are to be addressed in the position descriptions under subfactor B-1. Where are the specific duties to be addressed, under B-1 or B-2?

The Performance Work Statement in Section C discusses duties required to be performed by the contractor.

117. RFP Pages 65, 66, 69; Section L-11 and M.3, Subfactor B-1, Management Plan Will the government issue a task order for program management and administrative support of each regional contract? If yes, should offerors use one of the Program Manager rates (I, II, or III) for the Contract Program Manager?

See question 70 above.

118. Attachment A4 Midwest Labor Categories, Area 4 Worksheet The Community Outreach Specialist position and general descriptions of duties does not correspond well to the DOL SCA 01113 General Clerk III directory of occupation description. Would the USGS consider classifying this position as Professional Service?

Yes and is revised by reference herein.

119. Attachment A4 Midwest Labor Categories, Area 4 Worksheet The Spatial Analysis Technician I & II position and general descriptions of duties do not correspond well to the DOL SCA 30210 Laboratory Technician directory of occupation description. Would the USGS consider classifying these positions as Professional Service?

Yes and is revised by reference herein.

120. RFP Page 23, Section C.16 Federal Information Security Management Requirements Is the background investigation only the NACI referenced later in the RFP or something the contractor will be responsible for?

See question 86 above.

121. RFP Page 47, Section I.9 Ordering The dates, August 1, 2014 through July 31, 2015, are incorrect. Will the government provide correct dates?

The dates will be adjusted at time of award to correspond with the one-year base period.

122. All Sample Task Attachments Sample Tasks B3A, B4A, and B4B are defined as FFPTO Tasks. Sample Tasks B3A and B4C are defined as LHTO Tasks. Will the government identify which of the remaining tasks are FFPTO and which are LHTO?

Tasks that are not designated as LHTO or FFPTO are to be priced as LHTO or FFPTO at the discretion of the offeror.

123. All Sample Task Attachments, Historical Levels of Effort Will the government define a common level of effort for a staff full time equivalent (FTE)?

Throughout the solicitation and its attachments, any reference to the quantity of hours that represent a Full Time Equivalent (FTE) is hereby revised to 1920.

124. RFP Pages 63-64, Sections L.10-L.11, Factor A Technical Approach The level of technical complexity and scope of work varies greatly across the sample tasks and the page limit for Factor A is, in some cases, insufficient to adequately address the scope of work defined in the Sample Task. Would the government increase the page limit for Factor A to 6 pages?

See question 45 above.

125. RFP Pages 63-64, Sections L.10-L.11, Factor B-1 Management Approach – Management Plan The complexity and scope of work required to plan and manage the IDIQ contract covers all technical, administrative, business, and management disciplines. Section L.11 also requires contractors to describe their experience and successes with the processes and practices defined in the Factor. The page limit for Factor B-1 is insufficient to adequately address the scope of work defined along with the proof points requested. Would the government increase the page limit for Factor B-1 to 10 pages?

L.10 Factor B Page Limit has been changed from 8 pages to 10 pages and is revised by reference herein.

126. Are we required to respond to all eight (8) of the task areas or are we allowed to respond to some of them?

Yes, any one of the contracts could require services in any of these eight task areas, as listed in Section C.3.

THE CONTRACTOR SHALL PROVIDE:

Science and technical support services required are outlined under the major requirements listed below:

1. Administrative

2. Program Management Services

3. Research/Science

4. Data and Information Management

5. Computer Systems Administration, Operations, and Maintenance

6. Geospatial Applications, Modeling, and Associated Technologies

7. Web and Database Applications

8. Technical Project Management

127. As a SBA 8(a) certified company; if we pursue this contract as a Joint Venture (JV) with other companies, will only our annual revenue be calculated for the size standard?

The rules governing 8(a) Program joint ventures are described in 13 CFR 124.513.

G14PS00135

Attachment I Amendment 0002 Questions.Responses