H92222-14-R-0020_Batch_3_Q A.pdf

H92222-14-R-0020 Batch 3 Q&A #79-256

RFP

Documen t Section Para. # Page

# Question/Comment Gov't Response

Amend

L L1.2.2 7 of

Amendment 0001 added the phrase in the foldout description "and will be counted as 2 pages." L1.2.2 still states "foldout pages count as one page. May offerors assume the newly added 2 page statement applies only if foldouts are used for pages of text?

No. As stated in L1.2.2, foldouts ARE NOT to be used for pages of text.

Atch 10

PPI

Per answer to Questions (#52) and Amendment 01, Attachment 10 PPQ has been changed to reflect “Professional Services” vs “Admin & Other”. We checked all three performance areas to include “Admin & Other” on the original form and sent it to our customers. We would also check Professional Services.

However, our Customers have already received the original PPQ and most have submitted to the Government. Will the Government accept the original completed PPQ, or do we need to have our Customer POCs resubmit the new Amendment 01

PPQ?

The Group A taxonomy is completed by the offeror, if there is a change due to the revision, please annotate on the PPQ Tracking sheet which taxonomy applies. There is no need to resubmit the PPQ. The applicable Group A taxonomies are: Program Management, Engineering & Technical Services, and Professional Services.

81 Atch 3 Pricing

Section B Template

2 The labels for Sub-Factor 2.3 are inconsistent. Will the Government correct or is it left to the contractors?

Amendment 0001 corrected the Sub-factor 2.3 labels to "J5 Long Range Planning & Analysis".

Atch 5 J2 As a reminder, Attachment 5 J2 Sample Performance Work Statement will not be awarded as a result of this source selection.

Any J2 future request for task order proposal will include all the applicable information the SWMS Group A prime awardees will require in order to submit a technical and price proposal.

83 Atch 5 J2 2 2.1.17 5 Paragraph states "Develop and maintain an i2 Subject Matter Expert (SME) SOP for processing, prioritizing and analyzing biometrics and forensic identifications." The intent of this SOP is not clear; is it to compile a list of internal/external experts in biometrics, etc., and develop procedures for engaging their services as consultants? If not, will the government make clear the purpose of the SME SOP?

As part of the future requirement, the TO awardee will create and maintain an up-to-date SOP that outlines the "SOF i2 Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures (TTP)" for internal J24-I training requirements (new personnel, both government & contractor) and external SME export to component, TSOC, and SOF operational unit personnel (a "How To" manual that documents i2 best practices).

Atch 5 J2 2 2.1.10, 2.2.11

5, 7 Please confirm that offerors are not being asked to procure new forensics software.

Correct. The Government does expect the contractor to provide personnel with current knowledge of software used within DoD for i2 and to have the capacity / capability to maintain currency over time as new software a/o equipment is fielded.

85 Atch 5 J2 2 2.1.7 5 Paragraph states, "Provide necessary support for customer missions, primarily, but not limited to, support of reach back capabilities among USSOCOM; Fort Bragg, NC; and the Defense Intelligence Agency in Charlottesville, VA. Will the government specify what constitutes, "necessary support" and which "customer missions" are referred to here?

Missions vary based on real world operations. Historically, PED Analysts support global identity intelligence operations from US SOCOM HQ. For unusual or specific missions, PED Analysts may deploy on short TDY's to other locations to provide SOCOM identity intelligence familiarization (SOFEX portal and i2 analytical processes) to analytical elements of SOF units deploying forward into war or conflict zones. i2CMs are a deployable asset who directly a/o indirectly support ground operations (currently in Afghanistan, Africa, and SOCOM HQ, but may vary based on global operational requirements).

Necessary support means i2CM capability, as described, in various global locations as missions dictate. We provide Computer Forensic technical support at Ft Bragg w/NMF and provide adjunct i2 SME support at the USAJFK JETC (courses) when required.

Atch 5 J2 2 2.1.4 4 Paragraph references "development and maintenance of a SOF Exploitation Web Application." Is this an ongoing spiral development process, and if so, what is the current stage of development

SOFEX is a web portal site(s) where identity intelligence accomplishes its reach-back tactical support mission (connects to end users and other government agencies). There are dedicated web developers to conduct the IT development work (separate task order and NOT part of this requirement). Historically, the contracted personnel supporting this task order receive field input for portal improvements, collaborate with the separate IT team for tailored IT development, and ensure the portal sites meet end user and internal J24-I requirements.

87 Atch 5 J2 2.1.10 5 Given the wide variety of products for various applications, will the Government specify its current "latest commercial computer forensics software?" Is the contractor expected to provide and update the software?

Q1: i2 software and equipment are currently going through a technology refresh period (CERP process of changing out old equipment / technology for New). There are over twenty major equipment types in use by SOF forces addressing biometric, forensic, and DOMEX requirements. Personnel with i2/forensic experience will know what equipment and software are in use (equipment types in use, not comprehensive: CrossMatch SEEKS II, Bio-Sled, XRY/XACT, Sbare 4000, Griffin 450, AFIX Tracker, TracER Laser Lite, Fuming Chambers, Tableau TD-1, FRED-L, EL-1003, Lynn Peavey Latent Print Kit, Metal- TEC 1500, CrossMatch Guardian-R).

Q2: No.

Atch 5 J2 2.2.7, 2.3.9

6, 8 Will the Government clarify if the contractor will be required to train military personnel who work alongside them on the mission, or if this requirement is to set up formal classes outside of the normal mission? As written, this is not measurable.

Yes, from an SME perspective (OJT type training).

89 Atch 5 J2 General 2 The document is identified under "Background" as H92222-14- R-0021 Attachment 5. Please clarify.

Amendment 0001 will correct the RFP referenced to H92222- 14-R-0020.

Atch 5 J2 PWS 2.2.1 6 PWS section 2.2.1 states, "Provide necessary support for customer missions, primarily, but not limited to, support of reach back capabilities between USSOCOM, Fort Bragg, NC and the Defense Intelligence Agency in Charlottesville, VA." As worded, the support appears to be more the Operations/Strategic levels vice tactical support. The use of "between" is confusing.

Does this indicate if the FTEs supporting 2.2 are operating at each referenced location, or coordinating with each other from Tampa? Please clarify if reach back support is being provided individually from each location to a deployed mission unit, or if the reach back is being centrally coordinated from USSOCOM.

See Q&A #85 In this case, the Computer Forensic Analysts must coordinate with and contribute to the SOF identity intelligence enterprise within the scope of their forensic expertise and must know SOCOM data processing / flow and i2 capabilities.

91 Atch 5 J2 Section 2 2.1.8 5 Does this requirement, specifically the statement "Provide all necessary support for key forensic processing/analytical capability support," include DNA-based forensic analysis or is it restricted to latent prints and other types of forensic evidence?

DNA analysis may evolve to the point where it is done in SOCOM's EAC forward deployed labs (rapid DNA capabilities);

however, at present we support DNA analysis through reach-back to other DoD and IA partners. This contracted effort must understand the reach-back processes, on-site collection procedures, and be knowledgeable of LE evidentiary handling, packaging, and transporting.

Atch 5 J2 Section 1 and Section 2

1.1;

2.3.3

Pages 3, 7

Reference PWS section 1.1 (Task Purpose), page 3 and PWS Section 2.3.3 (Specific Requirements), page 7, the sample PWS states that the “…purpose of this task order is to provide dedicated 24/7 coverage to disseminate products from the battlefield, provide i2 exploitation analysis, and “push” products omni-directionally across tactical, operational, and strategic forces and USG interagency partners, 24 hours a day.” Are offerors required to demonstrate a 24/7 management and technical approach that accommodates shift-work? Or, given 2.3.3., is 24/7 support only required for embedded, deployed personnel?

The i2 exploitation cell (i2EC) PED analytical effort at SOCOM HQ is the 24/7 operation support required. SOCOM does NOT require 24/7 management support. Deployed personnel will not work 24/7, but may work schedules conducive to the forward deployed units' missions as identified in the PWS/SOW (12/7, 1st or 2nd shift).

93 Atch 6

SORDAC

Sub factor 2.1

2 It states "H92222-14-R-0020 Attachment 6 includes the following: ITO, SOW, DD254 w/Addendums (Attachment 6a).

The pricing template will be provided separately." Please clarify, is Attachment 3 the only template to be used for all three

(3) sample task orders.

Yes.

Atch 7

SMEP

ITO 1 2 These instructions specifically require that offerors "submit a technical proposal IAW H92222-14-R-0020 Section L.2.3," yet Section L.2.3 includes no requirement for a Technical Approach.

Does the government intend to add a requirement in L.2.3 for a Technical Approach?

The "technical proposal" refers to the TO proposal IAW L2.3.

95 Atch 7

SMEP

3 Page Count and Distribut ion:

5,6,7,8 Distribution Methods:

1. What is the preferred distribution method(s) US mail, DHL, Fed Ex, etc.?

2. What are the distribution locations?

3. How frequently will the distribution locations change?

1. No preference

2. Domestic and international ratios are in the deliverables table

3. Quarterly.

Atch 7

SMEP

2.7 Delivera bles Format

3.0 Delivera bles

2.7 Delivera bles Format

3.0 Delivera bles

5 Section 2.7 of Attachment 7 requires five print versions of each completed magazine. Section 3 (Deliverables) implies but does not specifically state that contractor is required to produce and physically ship tens of thousands of copies of each magazine worldwide. Will the Government confirm whether bidders are required to produce and ship the quantities as specified in the right hand column of the table in Section 3.

Is the contractor required to distribute the magazines via US Mail from the US to each foreign country, or to distribute via local in country mail services? Or is the contractor required to hand deliver to senior foreign military bases and personnel? Or some combination of each?

The contractor will be required to produce and ship copies of the magazines worldwide as specified in Section 3.

No preference for distribution method.

97 Atch 7

SMEP

2.11 2.11 5 Will the government require in country stringers to provide specific content based on themes and messages the government provided to the contractor? If so are there any degrees of separation required between the content providers and SOCOM?

There is no requirement for stringers. The product is fully attributed to the U.S. Government and specifically to the GCC Commanders who are executing the program. USSOCOM holds the contract vehicle to assist GCCs in achieving cost efficiencies through shared assets.

Atch 7

SMEP

6.1 Security Require ments

6.1 Security Require ments

9 Referenced section states that “Personnel authorized to work on-site will require access to NIPRNET/SIPRNET computer systems at Government facilities.” However, Page 2 states “ Performance is off-site.” And Section 5 States “The Government anticipates all off-site support for this requirement.”

1. Can the government clarify who will be required to work on site and who will be off site?

2. If contractor is required to work only off site, will the contractor be required to have access to NATO, Foreign Government Information, Focal Point, SIPRNET/ NIPRNET at the contractor facility as well?

3. Will the government provide temporary or permanent space for the contractor to access these networks on government site?

If so how many desks /computers will be provided and how often?

This is a deliverables based contract. In order to achieve classified objectives as outlined in the Theater Security Cooperation plans and approved MISO Programs, contractor personnel will require access to Government workspace for briefings and technical discussions. The contractor facility does not require classified access. Proposals should include a recommended structure and management approach to achieve deliverables. The offeror’s unique approach may include limited temporary or permanent support at Government locations for consideration.

99 Atch 7

SMEP

Delivera bles

Can the Government provide the average word count per magazine in order to price translate costs?

Sample magazines are available:

http://unipath-magazine.com; http://apdforum.com/; http://adf-magazine.com/v7n1-en/; and http://www.marshallcenter.org/mcpublicweb/nav-publications-per-concordiam-en.html

Atch 7

SMEP

2.9.2. 2.9.2. 5 How many surveys and polling will be required to be conducted and how often? How many respondents will be required for an understanding of the effectiveness of the surveys? Will the surveys be required to be done in person? Via an online website based survey? Via an email survey? Via text Messaging? Will surveys and polling only be required for the APDF or will all other magazines require this as well?

Para 2.9 describes that surveys and polling may be required to support the analytics task. The objective is for the contractor to provide a plan for collecting available data and observational evidence to assist in determining the efficacy of the program.

Editors and writers interact with subscribers and have insight to the ways the products are used. This data should be collected and provided to the Government to assist in ensuring the products meet the needs of our partners. This effort could include, for example, a voluntary survey on the UNIPATH website. Only UNIPATH and APDF specifically requested this support.

101 Atch 7

SMEP

2.9.2 2.9.2 5 In regards to the analytics for this TO. Will this TO be responsible for all Methods of Effectiveness (MOE) or will this be the responsibility of the GRAP (Global Research Assessment Program) contract?

No.

Atch 7

SMEP

Section 3 Delivera bles

5 Will the government be requiring a performance milestones/ payment values for this Task Order?

No.

103 Atch 7

SMEP

Sec 3 Para 3.

Delivera bles

Pg 5 Deliverable: Africa Defense Forum (ADF) Standard Calendar Q1: Is the requirement annually or quarterly?

Q2: Is the estimate of pages for the English 32+4 or 68?

Q1: annually Q2: Amendment 0002 will revise to reflect 32+4

104 Atch 7

SMEP

Sec 3 Pg 8 Pg 8 Deliverable: Per Concordiam Magazine Q1: Is the frequency every 145 days or quarterly?

Production requires 145 days. The magazines are delivered quarterly. Magazine productions overlap.

105 Atch 7

SMEP

PWS Paragrap h 5

9 SMEP TO indicates that the Government anticipates “all off-site support” for this requirement. Does the government anticipate classified support/work to be conducted at contractor off-site facilities? If so, to what classification level and what percentage of work will be classified?

No. Access to classified will be limited to meeting with the Government.

Atch 7

SMEP

3 table 5-8 Section 3. Deliverables specifies delivery of copies to AORs for each publication. Specific quantities to each nation are not specified. Since international postage rates vary by country, it is difficult to provide a precise price quote without assumptions or more specific requirements given the volume per country. Will the Government provide this greater detail in the requirements, (i.e. publication for each country and provided based on either current practice or plans)?

Offerors should use the distribution ratio found in the deliverables table to estimate individual delivery of magazines (i.e. individual mailing, no bulk drop offs) Distribution lists vary each quarter.

107 Atch 7

SMEP

6 6.1 Do the security clearance requirements apply to contractor team personnel who do not work on USG site?

Yes. But they do not apply to 3rd party vendors such as printers.

Atch 7

SMEP

3 5 In the Deliverables table, for ADF Magazine on the first line, the distribution indicated is “Copies annually to AOR NTE 60,000 (15K x 60k.” Is this intended to mean “Copies annually to AOR NTE 60,000 (15K quarterly)”? Additionally, is this 60K per language (English, Modern Standard Arabic, and French) or is 60k total divided evenly amongst the languages?

Not to exceed 60,000 annually or 15K per quarter (Amendment 0001 revised the distribution). This cap includes all languages (60K divided amongst the languages)

109 Atch 7

SMEP

3 5 - 8 Should shipping costs be calculated based upon individual publication shipping, or are all or a portion of the deliverables shipped in bulk, and if so, what are the applicable percentages shipped in bulk, and to where are the bulk shipments delivered?

The goal is to completely eliminate bulk shipment.

Atch 7

SMEP

3 5 - 8 Should shipping costs be calculated based upon individual publication shipping, or are all or a portion of the deliverables shipped in bulk, and if so, what are the applicable percentages shipped in bulk, and to where are the bulk shipments delivered?

Offerors should plan to ship individual publications.

111 Atch 7

SMEP

3 7 Unipath SPED Standard Edition - Language, Page Count, and Distribution column states 1 version annually but lists 4 languages; should this be 4 language versions annually to match the other Unipath magazine runs?

Amendment 0002 will revise Column 2 to reflect annually.

One version annually for each language listed (Column 4).

Atch 7

SMEP

3 7 Unipath KLE SPED w/folder & pen - Folder & Pen are listed as 2K annually, magazine is listed as 1K annually. For the insert what are the paper specifications? For the folder what is the size requirement? For the pen is there a specific style required?

Of the 2K folders with pen and mag, the offeror should anticipate shipping 1,000 to the CENTCOM AOR. The remaining magazines will be shipped to CENTCOM HQ for presentation to partners.

113 Atch 7

SMEP

3 7 Unipath planner - Publication Specification column states 2 versions; Language, Page Count, and Distribution column states 1 version annually with two languages listed.

There is one planner published annually in two languages.

Atch 7

SMEP

3 7 Per Concordiam Magazine - Listed as 4 quarters, 13K per issue, annually NTE 39K. Should this be 3 issues annually for 39K or 4 issues for 52K?

52K

115 Atch 7

SMEP

3 5 - 8 The first Q & A states magazines are delivered to 171 countries.

Our printing vendors have requested specific locations for the international shipping in order to provide accurate estimates.

Ratios of magazine shipment internationally are in the deliverables table by region (i.e. UNIPATH ships to the CENTCOM AOR) Specific addresses will not be provided.

116 Atch 7

SMEP

PWS 2.2 and 3.0

4 and 5 - 8

Please specify if the term "Quarterly" is based on a Calendar Year (CY) or Government Fiscal Year (FY)?

Quarterly is 4 products in 12 months based on the period of performance.

117 Atch 7

SMEP

Instructio ns and

PWS

PoP and

2.2 and 3.0

2 and 4, 5 -

What is the current incumbent's Production and Delivery Plan or Cycle in place through December 2015 for each magazine or product? Is there already an approved and in-place schedule the new contractor must follow through the end of 2015?

There is no 'in-place schedule' to be followed through the end of 2015. The current period of performance ends 29 May 2015.

Offerors should anticipate developing schedules for quarterly delivery for twelve months after that date.

Atch 7

SMEP

PWS 3.0 5 Africa Defense Forum (ADF) Standard Calendar shows frequency of Annually in 4th quarter of CY, but the last column reads 3 versions quarterly. Can you please clarify the production requirement for this publication - once a year or each quarter?

Amendment 0002 will revise the last column to read "3 versions annually". The calendar is produced annually and distributed in the 4th quarter of the calendar year.

119 Atch 7

SMEP

PWS 3.0 8 Per Concordiam Magazine shows frequency as 145 Day schedule, but in last column it reads: 2 versions per quarter for 4 quarters (U.S. English, Russian). Can you please clarify the production requirement for this publication. Also, we assume a typing error in the name of this publication. Can you please verify the correct name as either Per Concordiam or Pro Concordiam.

The magazine is per Concordiam (lower case p in 'per') It translates from latin as "by agreement". Per Concordiam publishes in two versions (English and Russian) every quarter.

It takes 145 days to develop a magazine. Development of magazines overlap.

Atch 7

SMEP

On the incumbent contract under GBPS, did the Government purchase equipment through the contract? If so, is that equipment available and will the Government provide a list of GFE for this task order (such as computers, software, and office equipment)?

There is no GFE for this task. No equipment is available.

121 Atch 7

SMEP

Regarding classification of the work, will the Government please describe the process? We assume that planning process is classified. Does the Government lift the classification restriction after the planning process or not until printing/distribution? In other words, do all of the production people (writers, designers, etc.) need to have clearances and work in a secure facility, or just the more senior planners?

All production personnel require clearances. Printers, translators, or other 3rd party vendors do not.

122 Atch 7

SMEP

Will the Government provide the approximate splits per language per magazine?

The splits per language come with the delivery from the Govt of the distribution list during the quarter it will be published.

123 Atch 7

SMEP

Do all the magazines need to be shipped in opaque covers? No.

Atch 7

SMEP

Distributi on Maintena nce

2.10 5 Why is it that the contractor only has to maintain and provide verification of the UNIPATH distribution list and not the other magazines?

GCC preference.

125 Atch 7

SMEP

Analytics 2.9 4 Why is it that the contractor only has to provide quarterly analytics support for UNIPATH and Asia Pacific Defense Forum (APDF) and not the other magazines? Why not Africa or per Concordiam?

GCC preference.

Atch 7

SMEP

Leader Engagem ent Support

2.5 4 Why does the contractor only have to provide key leader engagement team support for UNIPATH and not the other magazines?

GCC request.

127 Atch 7

SMEP

ADF

Standard Calendar

3.0 5 Under the languages, page count and distribution column, should it read “3 versions annually” and 32 pages?

Yes.

Atch 7

SMEP

5 9 In the SMEP TO, the place of performance is stated as “off-site.” However, the SCI addendum lists several GCC headquarters as the locations of performance and states that performance is restricted to those locations. Please clarify.

Currently, the GCCs provide space for a regional task lead for coordination. The offeror should propose what is required to successfully meet the deliverables. The Government does not plan to provide space for ALL personnel.

129 Atch 7

SMEP

For the SMEP TO, are offerors expected to propose the work locations of personnel executing the various tasks associated with the task order?

Yes.

Atch 7

SMEP

In the SMEP TO, USSOCOM is not listed as one of the locations for performance. Does USSOCOM anticipate any contractor personnel will work in USSOCOM-provided office space? Will USSOCOM provide sufficient office space for all contractor personnel?

USSOCOM anticipates providing space for one task lead in order to facilitate coordination.

131 Atch 7

SMEP

In the SMEP TO, will EUCOM, AFRICOM, PACOM, and CENTCOM provide sufficient office space for all contractor personnel that might be assigned to those locations by the offeror, or must the offeror provide contractor office space at those locations for ALL personnel?

Currently, the GCCs provide space for a regional task lead for coordination. The offeror should propose what is required to successfully meet the deliverables. The Government does not plan to provide space for ALL personnel.

Atch 7

SMEP

2.6 This requirement states that translation must be by translators who are “certified by the American Translators Association, possess ISO 9001 Bureau Veritas Certification, or equivalent translation proficiency.” What defines equivalent translation proficiency?

There are many measures of proficiency internationally. The PWS lists the most commonly known in the U.S. Other certification could be acceptable if it yields a translation with no more than a 2% error rate.

133 Atch 7

SMEP

SOW 3 5 Transition for the SMEP task will occur during the planning/production cycles for many of the deliverables specified in Para 3. It is our understanding that all content under development by the current vendor will be provided as GFI. Is our assumption correct or will the incumbent complete any deliverable currently in the pre-approval stages?

The Government will plan for a smooth transition period from a Gov't perspective to mitigate any disruption in service; however, offerors must address transition as part of their proposal (See L2.3.3)

Atch 7

SMEP

3 5-9 Will the Government provide a distribution list for each magazine or other media so we can provide accurate shipping cost?

No distribution lists are released until the quarter of publication.

Shipping estimates can be based on the region of delivery and the number of magazines shipped.

135 Atch 7

SMEP

2.6 4 What does the Government define as "equivalent translation proficiency"?

There are many measures of proficiency internationally. The PWS lists the most commonly known in the U.S. Other certification could be acceptable if it yields a translation with no more than a 2% error rate.

Atch 7

SMEP

3 3 5-8 Each of the magazines has an annual amount of magazines to be printed at a NTE value. For pricing purposes should we use the NTE value in our estimate.

Offerors should assume that the NTE value is the Governments anticipated requirement.

137 Atch 7

SMEP

3 3 5-8 Each of the magazines lists percentages of domestic and international delivery of the magazines. No addresses or locations are provided, thus limiting the ability to adequately scope shipping costs. Please provide delivery locations.

The distribution list changes regularly. The distribution ratios in the deliverables table are the Governments best estimate of international and domestic shipping.

Atch 7

SMEP

3.0 5 How many copies are to be printed per language? This question applies to each of the rows in the Deliverables table (ADF Magazine, Africa Defense Forum (ADF) Standard Calendar, Asia Pacific Defense Forum (APDF) Magazine, Asia Pacific Defense Forum (APDF) Planner, Asia Pacific Defense Forum (APDF) Poster/Brochure, Unipath Magazine - Standard, Unipath Magazine - Key Leader Edition (KLE) Includes Insert and Custom letter, Unipath Special Edition (SPED) Standard, Unipath Special Edition (SPED) Key Leader Edition (KLE) With presentation folder and pen, Unipath Planner, Per Concordiam Magazine)

The number of copies by language varies quarterly.

139 Atch 7

SMEP

DD254 1b 1 According to block 1b. on DD254 for TO 2, the contractor will be required to safeguard classified material up to the SECRET level. However, there are no requirements to receive and/or generate classified material identified in block 11. Can the Government please clarify the safeguarding requirements for this

TO?

If the contractor maintains or will be required to maintain classified information at their location, proper security procedures are to be followed as indicated in the DD 254.

Atch 7

SMEP

2.1.2 1 2 Government states "assign contractor staff responsibilities and supervise all contractor staff efforts." Please clarify "all". Does this apply only to the offeror's staff and subcontractors or are there other contractor staff associated with this task? If so, how many and what functions do they provide?

This applies only to the offeror's staff and subcontractors.

141 Atch 7

SMEP

2.11 1 5 Instructions specify that the contractor shall develop content.

Please define content and an estimate of the percentage of the overall content of each magazine the contractor is expected to develop.

Content is defined as anything in the magazine--from articles, to photos to graphic design. Each product should have a minimum 70% original textual content (excluding photos and design).

"Original" includes all material written by the contractor or the subscribers, or other "special to" sources. No more than 30% of the delivered products should be wire stories or previously published material. The delivered products should be 'new,' and not simply an aggregate of previous sources.

Atch 7

SMEP

2.8 1 4 Government specifies domains for each magazine. If not Government owned, are they transferrable to the successful offeror? Will the successful contractor have to establish new and different domain names which could impact readers?

They are Government owned and transferrable.

143 Atch 7

SMEP

3 Table 5 Instructions specify delivery of products both domestically and internationally. Are the products directly shipped to the subscriber or to a location pre-established by the GCC?

While GCCs receive some magazines, the products are shipped directly to subscribers. There is currently no interim delivery point.

Atch 7

SMEP

Sub factor 2.2

2 There is no reference as to pricing template. Is Attachment 3 the appropriate template to be used for pricing this TO?

Yes.

145 Atch 7

SMEP

PWS 6.1 9 Security Requirements state, "The Contractor team individuals supporting this task shall be cleared at the SECERT level at the start of this the task; with eligibility for TS/SCI." In order to ensure translation at the required 2% or less error rate and utilize country nationals to act as cultural advisors Offeror requests removing this requirement for translators and cultural advisors.

There is no requirement for 3rd party vendors (printing, translation) to maintain a clearance.

Atch 7

SMEP

Instruct-ions

- 2 The current POP date begins June 1, 2015. According to the schedule this conflicts with a quarterly deliverable. Should Offeror assume award date would be adjusted to ensure no disruption in service?

The Government will plan for a smooth transition period from a Gov't perspective to mitigate any disruption in service; however, offerors must address transition as part of their proposal (See L2.3.3)

147 Atch 7

SMEP

PWS 2.1 5 What does “verify the UNIPATH distribution list” mean? How is the current Incumbent handling the four national distributions? How is it disseminated? To the GCC or is Offeror responsible for mailing direct to partner nations?

UNIPATH is direct mailed to our international partners and subscribers. The requirement is to maintain updated distribution lists. This is done, for example, by ensuring that changes in assignments and ranks are up to date. It is direct mailed by the current incumbent.

148 Atch 7

SMEP

PWS 2.1 5 Does the “maintain and verify” requirement only apply to UNIPATH and not the other publications?

Unipath only.

149 Atch 7

SMEP

PWS 3 5 Is there a quantity breakout of the number of copies in each language for each specific title. For example, Africa Defense Forum – 15,000 copies quarterly in English, Modern Standard Arabic and French. How many copies in each language?

The quantity break out changes quarterly.

Atch 7

SMEP

PWS 3 5 For distribution, each magazine has a Distribution Ratio: 42% domestic/APO, 58% international, for example. What type of mail delivery is required (First Class, US bulk, printed matter, etc.). Can international mail be sent through a consolidator, or must it go direct. Are some/any of these in bulk (more than one copy sent to a single destination? How much transit time is acceptable?

The offeror should submit a plan to deliver magazines to individuals in each region. There are occasions when more than one copy is sent to a single address (example: 5 copies to a Ministry of Defense or 10 copies to the Kofi Anan Center) but the objective is to achieve single direct mail (no bulk) to an individual name. The Government realizes that some countries infrastructure does not support timely delivery. Product shipping should include a plan to get the vast majority of the products to subscribers in the current quarter of publication.

151 Atch 7

SMEP

PWS 3 6 Confirm that editorial content in UNIPATH Standard and UNIPATH Special Edition is the same.

If you are referring to the letter in front or "Key Leader Message"; the content is to date, the same.

Atch 7

SMEP

PWS 3 7 What is frequency of UNIPATH Special Edition and UNIPATH Special Edition? Column 2 states quarterly, column 4 states annually.

Amendment 0002 will revise Column 2 to reflect annually.

153 Atch 7

SMEP

PWS 3 7 Please clarify if there are specific dates associated to product delivery to the GCCs or otherwise?

No specific dates have been established.

Atch 7

SMEP

2.11 1 5 Is there a minimum level of original content required per deliverable?

The ideal magazine would contain all original content generated by subscribers. Each product should have a minimum 70% original textual content (excluding photos). "Original" includes all material written by contracted staff, subscriber or GCC generated articles, or any material created "special to" the magazine (i.e. not wire or subscription service material)

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2 2.9.1 4 The Government states in support of Unipath, that the support may include conducting surveys, or other research methodologies and …that are related to Unipath.

1. Are these surveys and other research methodologies on call and are they to be priced as the need arises?

2. Are these surveys going to be qualitative or quantitative or both? If the Government owns the analytics currently being provided, when are the offerors going to be furnished those metrics tools currently being used?

3. As for the maintenance of information on external polling (both governmental and commercial) in what format is this information to be maintained and stored?

4. For example should it be hard copy, electronic, or both?

1. On call

2. qualitative

3. hard copy and electronic

4. both

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1 1.3 3 The Government states that the offeror will be using Government furnished subscriber lists. Subscriber lists have a direct affect on distribution costs.

1.When is the Government going to furnish these lists?

2. What format are the subscriber lists going to be provided as?

CSV? Excel?

3. If proprietary software, please state the type.

1. Government will not furnish lists prior to award. 2. They are Excel documents 3. No proprietary software is used.

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2 2.6 4 The Government states the offeror will meet the designated target audience language format as outlined in the planning process. When is the Government going to furnish the planning process referenced?

Current target languages are provided in the PWS. Any changes in the languages would require a contract modification. The planning process is a Government function and results in directions in regard to specific magazine themes.

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2 2.9.2 5 1. When the Government states it wants evidence of effectiveness does that mean Measures of Effectiveness?

2. Are these surveys on call at a future point in time?

3. Are these qualitative or quantitative surveys or both?

4. Usage data indicates collection from an on-line presence, yet, there is no requirement for APDF On-Line, through which data could be collected.

5. Given this, what usage data is the Government looking for?

1. Not necessarily.

2. On call

3. both, but more likely qualitative

4. APDF is online outside of this program

5. Evidence of how the subscribers use the information.

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3 ADF

Magazin e

5 The Government states that they want 15K per quarter in three languages, English, MSA, and French.

1. What is the breakdown per language per country?

2. How many copies are being shipped to each country?

3. What is the breakdown of bulk mail to point to point?

1. Language breakdowns per country vary quarterly.

2. Country breakdowns vary quarterly.

3. Offerors should consider all mail as point to point.

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3 ADF

Standard Calenda r

5 The Government appears to have duplicated the requirement for magazines when it means calendars.

1. How many calendars are required annually?

2. What is the breakdown for copies per language and which countries are they going to?

3. What is the breakdown of bulk mail to point to point?

AFRICOM provides a calendar to each subscriber mailed point to point. The specific mailing list will be developed in the 4th quarter of CY15.

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3 APDF

Magazin e

5 Table Cell states "Four versions quarterly -(3 flip/flop style, 1 standard) Language versions: English/Thai, English/Indonesian, English/Simplified Chinese, English only Dual-Language - 136 pages; English only 68-pages Copies annually to AOR NTE ;

58k (14.5K Quarterly)"

1. What is the breakdown quarterly in quantity per language, per country?

2. What is the breakdown of bulk mail to point to point?

1. Specific breakdowns are not available until the quarter of publication.

2. The objective is to send all magazines point to point.

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3 APDF

Planner

6 Table Cell states "One version English only 188 pages Distribution Ratio: 54% Domestic, 46% International Copies annually to AOR NTE 8,500."

1. How many copies to each country?

2. What is the breakdown between bulk mail and point to point?

1. Specific breakdowns are not available until the quarter of publication.

2. The objective is to send all magazines point to point.

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3 APDF

Poster/B rochure

6 Table Cell states "One version English only 24" x 18" folded to 6" x 9" Distribution Ratio: 54% Domestic, 46% International Copies annually to AOR NTE 14,500"

1. If shipped separately from the magazine, how many copies go to each country?

2. What is the breakdown between bulk mail and individual mail?

1. Specific breakdowns are not available until the quarter of publication.

2. The objective is to send all magazines point to point.

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3 APDF

Poster Brochur e

6 Column 2, Frequency, in the Table states “As Required” but Column 3, Distribution, states “One Version”. For clarification - Will there be multiple printings of one version?

No multiple printings of one version. The offeror price should include a poster and a brochure. (one version each)

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3 Unipath Magazin e - Standard

6 Table Cell states 'Four versions quarterly Languages: Dari,, Russian, Modern Standard Arabic, English 48 pages + 4page cover printed; additional 20 pages for online content Copies annually to AOR NTE 60,000 (15K quarterly) Distribution Ratio: 38% Domestic, 62% International"

1. How many copies of each language?

2. What countries are they being mailed to?

3. What is the breakdown between bulk mail and individual mail?

1. Specific breakdowns are not available until the quarter of publication.

2. Countries vary by quarter.

3. The objective is to send all magazines point to point.

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3 Unipath Magazin e - Key Leader Edition

(KLE)

6 Table Cell states "Unipath Magazine - Key Leader Edition (KLE) Includes Insert and Custom letter"

1. Who is responsible for writing the Custom Letter?

2. The Government or the Offeror?

The Contractor will be responsible for working with the CENTCOM staff to develop the letter.

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3 Unipath Magazin e - Key Leader Edition

(KLE)

6 Table Cell states "Four versions quarterly Languages: Dari,, Russian, Modern Standard Arabic, English 48 pages + 4page cover printed; additional 20 pages for online content Copies annually to AOR NTE 4,000 (1K quarterly) Distribution Ratio:

38% Domestic, 62% International"

1. For the 1,000 copies required quarterly, how many are required per language?

2. Which countries are they being mailed to?

3. The Government wants an additional 20 pages per quarter for on-line content?

4. What are the required languages for this content?

5. For pricing purposes how many words in the additional 20 pages?

6. Who is responsible for posting the 20 pages of online content?

1. Specific break downs by language will vary from quarter to quarter

2. countries vary quarter to quarter

3. Yes.

4. same as the other pages

5. sample products are available online for estimation

6. The Offeror.

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3 Unipath Magazin e - Key Leader Edition

(KLE)

6 Column 3, Row 7, Publication specifications state 48 page + 4 Page cover - 100# Silk Cover. 4/4cp + Metallic ink + matte aqueous + UV laminate… For Clarification: should the coating be UV laminate, or matte aqueous? (typically not both).

Both in this case.

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3 Unipath Special Edition

(SPED)

Standard

7 Column 2, Frequency, states “Quarterly” but Distributions states “one version annually” For Clarification - Will this be quarterly (4 issues) or annually (1 issue) per year?

1. The SPED is produced annually. 2. Specific rations of languages are not available until the distribution list is finalized.

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3 SPED 7 The Government states that it wants the SPED Quarterly and then that it wants it annually.

1. Which time frame is correct?

2. How many of each language are being printed?

3. Which countries are they being mailed to and what is the breakdown between bulk and point to point mail?

1. The SPED is produced annually. 2. Specific rations of languages are not available until the distribution list is finalized.

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3 SPED

KLE

7 The Government states that is wants the SPED KLE Quarterly and then that it wants it annually.

1. Which frequency is correct?

2. How many of each language are required and how many are being mailed to each country?

1. The SPED is produced annually. 2. Specific rations of languages are not available until the distribution list is finalized.

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3 Unipath Special Edition

(SPED)

Key Leaders hip Edition

(KLE)

7 Column 2, Frequency states “Quarterly” but Distribution states “One version Annually”

1. For Clarification - Will this be quarterly (4 issues) or annually (1 issue) per year?

2. Column 4, Distribution, states "Folder Die cut, Fold and Glue per approved sample” is there currently an existing approved sample to refer to?

1. See above 2. The specifications of the approved sample are in the deliverables table

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3 Unipath Planner

8 Table cell states "One version annually Languages: English and Modern Standard Arabic 196 pages Copies annually to AOR NTE 3,500 Distribution Ratio: 38% Domestic, 62% International; Annual distribution NTE 3,500."

1. How many of each language is required?

2. How many copies to each country?

3. What is breakdown of bulk mail and point to point?

4. Do the Key Leaders also get the Unipath Planner?

The specific ratios are not available until the distribution list is developed. Planners are mailed point to point. There is not a separate Key Leader version of the planners. The annual distribution does not exceed 3,500. A separate distribution list will be available in the 4th quarter CY15. Estimated shipping is 62% of the total. Offerors should reasonably anticipate that the bulk of the domestic planners will be shipped to USCENTCOM for hand delivery to partners.

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3 Per Concord iam Magazin e:

8 Column 2, Frequency, states "145 Day Schedule” but Column 4,Distribution, states "2 versions per quarter for 4 quarters” Please clarify number of issues and frequency.

“2 versions” refers to the two languages in which the magazine is published. (Russian and English) per Concordiam is published four times a year (quarterly) in two languages.

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3 Per Concord iam Magazin e

8 The Government states that it wants some copies to be in US English. 1. What dialect of English is to be used in Unipath, Africa Defence Forum, and Asia Pacific Defence Forum?

2. When are the offerors going to receive the distribution list for Per Concordiam?

Distribution lists will not be released until after contract award.

The lists vary by quarter. All English copies are expected to be in U.S. English.

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Publicati on Specific ations

5,6,7,8 Publication Designs:

1. Will any of the publications require a “redesign” or will the base format remain the same as currently exists?

2. Will native files from previous issues be supplied as a bases?

3. Is it likely that any graphics, photos, maps, etc from prior issue will be used for future publications? Such as for follow-up stories? If so, will all graphics, photos, etc. from prior issues be available for use as needed?

1. No 'redesign' is required. Government plans to retain the current 'branding' of products 2. Files will be available. 3. All information / archival material is retained with the program for use.

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5 Para 5 9 The Government states that it anticipates all off-site support for this requirement. Does this include the Task Lead?

The Government will provide space and equipment for the task lead

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6 Para 6.1 9 The Government states that it will facilitate on-site access at the GCC if required. Is there a Government requirement for one Liaison person at each GCC?

Offerors should propose a proprietary management and production support plan demonstrating their understanding of this deliverable- based task. While there is not a requirement for a liaison, the offeror should propose a plan for achieving delivery of the products.

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10 Para 10 10 Does the Government expect certain software to be used in the production of deliverables. If so, what is the software being used?

No.

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SCI

Addendu m

Para 5,Item

14 How many SCI billets are required? There is no specific number required.

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3.

Delivera bles

3 5-8 Are digital pdf or hardcopy proofs required? If so, what are the associated schedule requirements?

Yes. The respective GCC reviews the deliverable and advises the COR on Government acceptance. Digital PDF staffing is sufficient. The normal reviewing process takes approximately 10 days.

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"Instructi ons"

2 2 Will the Government please provide the same level of detail with regard to labor categories, skill levels, FTEs and hours per FTEs for this task order as provided in Attachment 6 and 8 tasks?

There are no FTEs for this task. It is deliverables based.

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1 1.1 3 Will the Government please clarify what "other collateral media products" will be required, and the quantity of each?

Other collateral media may include occasional blow-in or bind-in subscription cards, or inserts, brochures, handouts, maps or branding pieces such as magnets. These would be limited to no more than two products per branded magazine per year.

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Instructio ns, Delivera bles

Para. 2 on page 2 & Para. 3.

Delivera bles

2 & 5-

The Government requests Offerors propose a FFP to develop, deliver, and distribute all of the publications as outlined in the PWS. In order to provide an accurate FFP, more information is required regarding the content of each publication, such as number of photos, subject matter, length of articles, and travel to geographic locations of focused articles. Will the Government provide the necessary content information to facilitate accurate price proposals?

Multiple samples of previously published magazine products are available on the internet on the respective Geographic Combatant Command web pages.

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Atch 8 J5

4 an FTE Represents 1,880 hours of direct labor per year.

However, there is no mention of an FTE representation in Attachment 7 or 8. Will the Government please confirm that an FTE represents 1,880 for all task orders to be bid?

There is no FTE requirement for the FFP Attachment 7. From the J-5 Strategic Plan SOW all FTEs represent 1880 hours

Atch 8 J5 4 4.1 6 Does the Full Time Equivalent (FTE) represent 1880 hours of direct labor per year?

Yes

187 Atch 8 J5 4.1 7 Will the Government clarify the intent of the Industrial Analyst Business Process Consultant at zero FTE strength?

The industrial analyst business process consultant is intended to be independent consultants who can be utilized by the contractor when necessary to satisfy contracted service requirements. They will not work on-site but will be called upon to assist with problem sets in their area of expertise, and when the FTEs assigned to the task do not have the necessary skills or expertise to satisfy those requirements. They do not need a TS clearance but may travel in CONUS and be an escorted visitor to the J-5 work areas when needed.

Atch 8 J5 4 Figure 1 7 Govt Answered on 12-22-14 "Current support of 1/3 man year is anticipated and should be included in total FFP proposal."

Question - Will the Government Amend the PWS, paragraph 4.1 to reflect this staff requirement?

No, the 1/3 man year was provided as a guide - it is not hard and fast requirement due to the frequency of reach back capabilities that may or may not be required.

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Specific Require ments

2.9 4 Task 2.9 Lists the Net Enabled Command Capability (NECC) as an example of APEX primary supporting initiatives. Our research indicates NECC, as a program was cancelled. Is this a valid requirement?

It was listed as an example if it is no longer valid then it doesn't apply

Atch 8 J5 SOW 4.1 6-8 Would the government please clarify if the Full-time Equivalent

(FTE) quantities in 4.1 Figure 1 within 4.0 Personnel and Minimum Skill Requirements are mandatory levels?

Mandatory levels are as indicated in 4.1, Figure 1."

191 Atch 8 J5 General 2 There is no reference as to pricing template. Is Attachment 3 the appropriate template to be used for pricing this TO?

Yes.

Atch 8 J5 Historica l Labor Require ments

2 Attachment 8 to the RFP states that approximately 22 full-time contractor employees have supported this task. How many incumbent staff are currently supporting the GBPS J-56 task order and which J-56 branches and SOW tasks do they support?

Current contractor support are five in J56 with two personnel supporting J53 (CWMD Branch) and two supporting J52 (Posture, Policy and Basing Branch). Strategists category in current SOW is for strategists to be able to work irrespective of branches within the J5 except for J53 which requires specific skills, knowledge and…