Draft_RFP_Q A.pdf

Question 1: Reference FBO notification

The FBO notification stated that the final RFP was to be released on Monday August 29. Based on the importance and potential impact on proposal responses, will the Government endeavor to answer this set of questions prior to the release of the final RFP?

Answer 1: Yes, responses will be provided via FedBizOpps.

Question 2: Reference Page 427, 7.0(f) Subcontracting Plan

The subcontracting plan requirement appears only in the above noted reference, without any amplifying information to clarify/explain the “Subcontracting Plan” requirement. Is this a Subcontracting Plan to identify who the planned subcontractors are, and what work requirements they’ll be performing? Or, is this a Small Business Subcontracting Plan? If it’s the latter, please identify the Government’s Small Business goals for this solicitation.

Answer 2: Vendors will provide goals in their proposal IAW FAR 19.7.

Question 3: Reference 6.2.1.7

The Government states that facilities or shelters will generally be provided.

a: Should the offeror assume that Government furnished facilities will be provided for all locations and options for the priced CLINs? If not, will the Government provide a plug number for incidental site improvement or construction costs to provide a level playing field?

b: Should the offeror assume that the Government is supplying electrical power for any instance where a facility or shelter is provided?

Answer 3:

a. No. CLINs X001AF, X001AG, X001AH, X002AF, X002AG, and X002AH include shelters and should be priced as such. The offeror may assume that Government furnished facilities will be provided for CLINs X001AA, X001AB, X001AC, X001AD, X001AE, X001AJ, X002AA, X002AB, X002AC, X002AD, and X002AE. The Government will include plug numbers for X003 and X004 (service initialization) to cover incidental site improvement.

b. For instances where the Government is providing the shelter/facility, the Government will also supply power for the facility. If the RF transmission equipment (i.e., satellite communications terminal) requires a generator or other particular power supply, the contractor shall furnish that supply as part of the total turn‐key solution. For instances where the Government does not supply the shelter, “the contractor shall be required to provide/establish an appropriate shelter, power, and furnishings for the Internet Café.”

(PWS 6.2.1.7)

Question 4: Reference CLINs

The Government requires that power be included in the price for each type of café, but in 6.2.1.7 it states that generally a facility is provided.

a: If the Government is supplying power in most cases, will the Government consider removing this requirement from the CLINs and include as an option?

b: If the offeror is to provide power to the site, will the Government provide at no cost, fuel and maintenance support for the contractor provided generators?

Answer 4:

a. For instances where the Government is providing the shelter/facility, the Government will also supply power for the facility. If the RF transmission equipment (i.e., satellite communications terminal) requires a generator or other particular power supply or means of conditioning the facility power to ensure appropriate compatibility with the contractor‐supplied equipment, the contractor shall furnish it as part of the total turn‐ key solution.

b. No. The contractor shall specify the power requirements for the proposed turn‐key solution. Per PWS 6.2.2.2, “The contractor shall perform site surveys prior to determining requirements for installation. The contractor may establish a site survey and installation checklist to be completed by an on‐site Government representative prior to shipment and installation of equipment; however, the contractor is responsible for ensuring that the site is properly prepared and suitable for installation of the Internet Café.” Site surveys may include power conditions and requirements.

Question 5: Reference 6.3.1.3

Please confirm if 130 kbps is the correct data rate for the “Café: Small Flyaway.”

Answer 5: Per table 6.3.1.2, each café requires a minimum CIR of 32 kbps full duplex per computer and 17 kbps per telephone. Each flyaway includes 3 computers and 2 telephones and does not include a wireless access point. Therefore, the minimum CIR for a small flyaway is 130 kbps symmetrical full duplex (i.e., 130kbps each way for a total of 260 kbps).

Question 6: Reference Subtask 3.4

The contractor shall ensure that international services are provided as scheduled with the full approvals necessary for each affected host nation. Without knowing specific countries that may require satellite services, there is risk to the contractor that may result in a higher than necessary price.

As the price for Frequency Clearances and Host Nation Agreements can vary greatly between countries, will the Government consider including separate CLIN and a plug number for these costs for evaluation purposes?

Answer 6: No.

Question 7: Reference Section B, Supplies or Services and Prices & Attachment 1, Pricing Schedule (CLINs 0006AB and 0006AF)

There is a discrepancy with the quantity listed for CLINs 0006AB and 0006AF. The quantity listed in Section B is “blank” and the quantity listed in Attachment 1 is “1” for both CLINs.

What is the quantity for CLINs 0006AB and 0006AF?

Answer 7: Section B has been updated to match Attachment 1.

Question 8: Reference Section L‐2.2.2.1 & Section L‐2.2.7

Section L‐2.2.2.1 states, “The technical volume of the proposal is to be submitted as an MSWord 2007 or PDF document.“ Section L‐2.2.states, “The electronic copies of the proposal shall be submitted in a format readable by Microsoft (MS) Office Word 2007, MS Office Excel 2007, MS Office Project 2007, and MS Office Power Point 2007, as applicable.“

What is the preferred file format for volumes 1 – IV?

Answer 8: Documents shall be submitted in a format readable by Microsoft (MS) Office Word 2007 or Adobe.

Question 9: Reference Section L‐2.2.2.2 (Page size and format)

The space difference in a complex graphic between 11 point and 10 point can be as much as 10 percent of the allocated space depending on the explanatory text, titles, and identifying lines. 10 point type retains high Legibility and can reduce crowding, increasing Readability.

With the complexity of the required graphics, will the Government allow 10‐point type instead of 11‐ point type in proposal graphics?

Answer 9: No.

Question 10: Reference Section M002 and (i) Subfactor 1 (a.). For purposes of this sub‐factor, highly experienced means at least 10 years of experience in electronic systems and the systems the offeror proposes to use to meet the Internet Café requirements

The Government requires that FSRs have at least 10 years of experience supporting the proposed equipment set. In order to meet that requirement, the equipment must be ten or more years old and be beyond its normal lifecycle.

Will the Government re‐word this requirement to read: “at least 10 years of experience in electronic systems and similar systems to the ones the offeror proposes to use to meet the Internet Café requirements.”

Answer 10: Concur and revised in RFP M002 b.(i)a.

Question 11: Reference Section M001 (a.) Basis for Contract Award: A contract may be awarded to the offeror who is deemed responsible in accordance with the FAR, as supplemented, whose proposal conforms to the solicitation’s requirements (to include all stated terms, conditions, representations, certifications, and all other information required by Section L of this solicitation) and is judged to represent the lowest priced technically acceptable approach.

M001 (b.) Evaluation: The best value determination will be based on the lowest priced offer that meets all requirements. After receipt of proposals, the Government will first evaluate the lowest price proposal. If the lowest price proposal is determined to be technically acceptable and otherwise properly awardable, no further evaluations will be conducted, and award will be made. If, however, the lowest price proposal is determined to be technically unacceptable and/or otherwise not properly awardable, further evaluations will be conducted.

In the interests of the morale and welfare of our Warfighters, the Government would be better served with a best value evaluation criteria for the following reasons.

While The Government sees the most cost benefit with LPTA on commodity type work with simple characteristics and finite requirements, The MWR requirement is fluid, driven by world events and global conflict over a period of 7 years that changes daily.

The MWR requirement is technology driven meaning that end user experience (and complaints about it) are driven in a large part by the ability of the vendor to provide an innovative solution that will in turn drive down operational cost and provide visibility to GO. DISA has indicated before that it seeks innovation to drive cost down and user experience up. LPTA stymies the ability to do this because new innovations are more costly up front but ultimately significantly lower over the life of a 7‐year contract.

Using the same CLIN structure and pricing matrix in a Best Value approach with a narrow acceptable range reduces the risk of unsatisfactory performance. If the price factor is twice the evaluated value of Technical, and in the Technical, Sub‐factor 1, Sub‐factor 2 and the IA Factor are equal, the Government gains the ability to ensure higher sustained performance through the life of the contract while still remaining cost effective by using a Best Value evaluation.

Based on the above discussion will the Government consider changing the acquisition strategy from LPTA to Best Value?

Answer 11: LPTA is part of the best‐value continuum. FAR 15.101. The evaluation will remain LPTA.

Question 12: Reference Section C (PWS) Subtask 1.1 and Section 13

Offeror is aware that all downrange equipment located at the sites identified in Table 1 (Section C, Subtask 6.1.2.1) is currently GFE. This includes, but is not limited to Satellite Dish, BUC, LNB, Satellite Modem, and IT infrastructure (computers, phones, wireless equipment, etc.). Will any of this equipment be transferred to the Offeror to reduce the cost to the USG?

Answer 12: No.

Question 13: Reference Section C (PWS) Subtask 1.1 and Section 13

Offeror is aware that all downrange equipment located at the sites identified in Table 1 (Section C, Subtask 6.1.2.1) is currently GFE. Can the USG clarify who will be responsible for the de‐ installation/removal of this equipment?

Answer 13: The Government is responsible for de‐installation/removal of GFE.

Question 14: Reference Section C (PWS) 6.2.1.2

Can the USG clarify if the Wireless Access Points (WAPS) need to be rated for indoor or outdoor?

Answer 14: To cover the wide range of possible locations, wireless access points should be rated for outdoor use. PWS 6.2.1.2 has been updated to reflect this.

Question 15: Reference Section C (PWS) Subtask 3

Are network analysis and bandwidth monitoring limited to SNMP performance monitoring?

Answer 15: No. Network monitoring is further described in PWS 6.4.2.

Question 16: Reference Section C (PWS) 6.3.5

Please clarify if Paragraph 6 and Paragraph 7 are to refer to Tables 3 and 4 (Sub task 3.1).

Answer 16: Per PWS 6.3.5, should the Government choose to order Café services that utilize the local ISP option, the contractor shall ensure all other applicable terms of the contract are met, including service reliability/availability, throughput, and service levels as defined in Paragraph 7 and all performance requirements defined in Paragraph 6. Minimum throughput requirements are defined in Tables 3 and 4.

Question 17: Reference PWS 6.3.1.6

Section states: “Overall availability of each Café’s set of services shall be at least 99.5% (calculated over the operating hours of the Café during any 30‐day period)” but the requirement for non pre‐emptible bandwidth is not explicitly stated in the PWS. Is all proposed space segment and terrestrial services required to be non pre‐emptible?

Answer 17: The contractor shall ensure the services provided meet the required availability as stated in the PWS.

Question 18: Reference PWS 6.3.1.1

Are all proposed space segments required to be on‐orbit, operational, and station‐kept?

Answer 18: The offeror must demonstrate through service coverage maps and link budget analysis how the space segment coverage requirements are met through the service offering, per PWS subparagraph

6.3.1.1. All resources shall be available on the scheduled service start date of the Task Order. Station keeping and satellite inclination are dependent on the capability of the offeror’s turn‐key solution; the contractor shall ensure the services provided meet the required availability as stated in the PWS.

Question 19: Reference PWS 6.3.1

Since MIR is not defined in the PWS, is TDMA required or are SCPC links acceptable?

Answer 19: The contractor shall propose a solution that meets the Government’s requirements as stated in the PWS. The offeror must demonstrate how minimum committed information rates, service availability, latency, and packet loss requirements will be met by the offeror’s proposed solution, per subparagraphs 6.3.1.2, 6.3.1.3, 6.3.1.4, 6.3.1.5, and 6.3.1.6.

Question 20: Reference PWS 6.3.1

Will the Government allow MWR ICP café services to reside on a shared satellite space segment network?

Answer 20: Yes. The offeror must demonstrate how minimum committed information rates, service availability, latency, and packet loss requirements will be met by the offeror’s proposed solution, per subparagraphs 6.3.1.2, 6.3.1.3, 6.3.1.4, 6.3.1.5, and 6.3.1.6.

Question 21: Reference PWS Table 4

Are data rate requirements inclusive or exclusive of any satellite or network hardware overhead?

Answer 21: Data rates are exclusive of overhead. This has been clarified in PWS 6.3.1.3.

Question 22: Reference PWS 6.4.1.3

Will the Government please update the NDAA FY 2014 reference to NDAA FY 2016?

Answer 22: NDAA FY 2014 is the current and appropriate reference.

Question 23: Reference PWS 6.3.1.6

Given the decreased availability due to switching between satellites, would the Government allow LEO and MEO constellation solutions?

Answer 23: The Government will not disallow any particular solution that meets the requirements of the PWS. Overall availability of each Café’s set of services shall be at least 99.5% (calculated over the operating hours of the Café during any 30‐day period).

Question 24: Reference M002 b.ii PWS 6.3

Does the Government require link budget analysis (LBA) to ensure 99.5% TDMA availability?

Answer 24: The offeror must demonstrate through service coverage maps and link budget analysis how the space segment coverage requirements are met through the service offering, per PWS subparagraph

6.3.1.1. The offeror must demonstrate how minimum committed information rates, service availability, latency, and packet loss requirements will be met by the offeror’s proposed solution, per subparagraphs 6.3.1.2, 6.3.1.3, 6.3.1.4, 6.3.1.5, and 6.3.1.6.

Question 25: Reference M002 b.ii PWS 6.3

If LBA is required, will the Government identify locations for LBA in each AOR?

Answer 25: Except for countries listed in Table 1, service locations are unknown and will be determined at the task order level. Where locations are unknown, the link budgets shall be prepared based on a worst‐case scenario location. The worst‐case scenario is defined as the satellite communications link budget with the least amount of link margin when all other factors are considered [terminal specifications, effective isotropic radiated power (EIRP), system gain to noise temperature ratio (G/T), data rate, modulation and coding, etc.].

Question 26: Reference 6.1.3.4

Will the Government specify penalties for networks to meet the required uptime of 99.5 availability?

Answer 26: Per PWS paragraph 8, both positive and negative performance will be documented in the Contractor Performance Assessment Reporting System, as appropriate, and will be taken into consideration for follow‐on work. Service interruptions, outages, or other conditions resulting in the customer/user not being able to access the service may result in invoice adjustments after review of Monthly Status Report. Outage credits are described at DARS 52.239‐9000.

Question 27: Reference 6.2.1.7

Will the Government provide power, wiring, grounding, and HVAC for the Contractor Furnished Equipment (CFE) tents or shipping containers?

Answer 27: The contractor shall be required to provide/establish an appropriate shelter, power, and furnishings for the Internet Café. The shelter must be sufficient to house all Internet Café equipment with appropriate environmental protection.

Question 28: Reference 6.2.1.3

Will the CFE tents or shipping containers require power conditioning or a UPS?

Answer 28: The contractor shall be required to provide/establish an appropriate shelter, power, and furnishings for the Internet Café. The shelter must be sufficient to house all Internet Café equipment with appropriate environmental protection.

Question 29: Reference 6.2.1.2

What wireless networking standards does the Government require for the access points? For example, 802.11n, 802.11ac, or 802.11b/g.

Answer 29: The contractor shall propose the appropriate wireless protocol that is able to provide service to the majority of personal wireless devices.

Question 30: Reference Subtask 2.3

Will the “designated Government personnel” be at the DISA parent level or at each café site?

Answer 30: The designated Government personnel will be at each café site and specified in the task order.

Question 31: Reference Subtask 2.3

If café site level personnel can approve deviations from a standardized approved lifecycle image, will the Government take responsibility for supporting the modified hardware/software and uptime requirements?

Answer 31: The intent is not to allow Government personnel to deviate from a standardized approved lifecycle image. This has been clarified in PWS 6.2.3.

Question 32: Reference Subtask 2.3

Please confirm that user login credentials will suffice for a networking device.

Answer 32: Confirmed.

Question 33: Reference – General

Will power be GFE, 110‐240 VAC?

Answer 33: For instances where the Government is providing the shelter/facility, the Government will also supply power for the facility. The contractor shall specify the power requirements for the proposed turn‐key solution. Per PWS 6.2.2.2, “The contractor shall perform site surveys prior to determining requirements for installation. The contractor may establish a site survey and installation checklist to be completed by an on‐site Government representative prior to shipment and installation of equipment;

however, the contractor is responsible for ensuring that the site is properly prepared and suitable for installation of the Internet Café.” Site survey checklists may include power conditions and requirements.

Question 34: Reference 3.1

Given the requirements beyond the 20 noted sites, would the Government consider making the combatant CLINS optional?

Answer 34: This is an indefinite delivery / indefinite quantity contract. All quantities are estimated. The contractor shall have the ability to meet all requirements of the PWS and all CLINs; however, the services will not be required until task order execution.

Question 35: Reference Task 4 Subtask 4.1 6.4.1.2

Will the Government consider cryptography lower than Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) 256 on satellite communications links to be adequate mitigation?

Answer 35: Subtask 4.1 has been updated to reflect the new IA standards. Details of the contractor solution IA security posture shall be documented in the Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA) provided COMSATCOM IA Questionnaire (CIAQ). The contractor shall continually monitor and verify IA is maintained in accordance with the CIAQ so long as the contract is in effect.

Question 36: Reference Attachment 1 – Section B Pricing Schedule

The Government has provided CLIN quantities for evaluation purposes only. By assigning quantities to all CLINs, the Government is arbitrarily increasing the total contract value and opening up opportunities for Offerors to manipulate their price by providing unrealistic pricing for CLINs they do not anticipate the Government ordering. Since this is an LPTA evaluation, no value should be assigned to items not being purchased. Will the Government consider changing CLIN quantities for those CLINs that are not anticipated to be ordered at contract award to zero quantity?

Answer 36: No.

Question 37: Reference PWS 6.2.1.2

Multiple CLINs and the PWS refer to providing a “wired Internet Café.” Does this term explicitly refer to a computer physically cabled to a network providing internet service or does it refer to a Café where computers and VoIP phones are provided to the customer as opposed to a Café for bring‐your‐own‐ device (BYOD)

Answer 37: “Wired” refers to computers and VoIP phones being provided to the users in an Internet Café setting while “wireless” refers to the availability of Wi‐Fi in order to support bring‐your‐own‐device

(BYOD).

Question 38: Reference PWS 6.4.3.3 Subtask 4.4

Can the Government confirm that the NOC must be located in a place that affords basic levels of physical and electronic security commensurate with a typical U.S. Government network’s requirements;

e.g., the U.S., one of its territories, or on an overseas U.S. Government base/camp/station/compound.

Answer 38: The Government does not have any specific requirement for the NOC beyond what is stated in the PWS. There is no requirement for it to be located on an overseas U.S. Government base/camp/station/compound.

Question 39: Reference 6.2.1.4.

How does the shipping requirement apply to the flyaway Café’s? Is the contractor only obligated to ship the CFE to the Government for initial delivery, or is the contractor required to ship the CFE anytime the fly‐away terminal is re‐located?

Answer 39: The contractor is responsible for initial delivery of the flyaway kit and final return shipping at the conclusion the task order; the Government will otherwise transport and install the flyaway kit.

The small flyaway Café shall include all Radio Frequency, baseband, computer, and telephone equipment in packable, rugged, airline‐checkable transit cases that can be rapidly deployed with the troops. Small flyaway Cafés will not require contractor installation and shall be simple enough to deploy and set up without an on‐site field support representative.

Question 40: Reference Subtask 2.3 Internet Café Software

Does the Government intend to have the Contractor manage security patches and updates on all devices and software used in the solution?

Answer 40: Yes. All items offered as part of the total turnkey solution shall be contractor owned and maintained.

Question 41: Reference Task 3 – End‐to‐End Managed Services

Please provide more detail on the Contractor’s expected role in security management and continuous monitoring as it relates to this section? Is the Contractor responsible for performing regular vulnerability scans on the hardware used in the solution? Is the contractor responsible for managing and continuously monitoring a SIEM tool that reports to a Government system?

Answer 41: The contractor shall provide a complete end‐to‐end turnkey solution that provides internet and telephone services to deployed troops. There is no interface with or reporting to any Government system. All items offered as part of the total turnkey solution shall be contractor owned and maintained.

Question 42: Reference 6.3.1.6.

Since power and other considerations fall under the Government’s purview, please confirm that the downtime due to local site situations are excluded, e.g. power, signal jamming, etc.?

Answer 42: Outage credits and situations for which credits do not apply are described at DARS 52.239‐ 9000.

Question 43: Reference 6.4.1.1.

Please confirm that the Government intends to have the Contractor implement and manage an Information Assurance Vulnerability Management program for all devices used in the solution?

Answer 43: The contractor shall provide a complete end‐to‐end turnkey solution that provides internet and telephone services to deployed troops. All items offered as part of the total turnkey solution shall be contractor owned and maintained.

Question 44: Reference 6.2.1.7

As a point of reference for the required deliverable, will the Government provide an example of a Café installation the successfully met requirements, e.g. as‐built drawings, equipment specifications, configuration plans, etc.

Answer 44: No.

Question 45: Reference 6.2.2.2

If during the site survey, the Contractor determines that the site is not prepared and suitable, how is the situation remediated? When not suitable, how is the interval for delivery affected?

Answer 45: Per PWS 6.2.2.2, the contractor may establish a site survey and installation checklist to be completed by an on‐site Government representative prior to shipment and installation of equipment.

Question 46: Reference – General

Given earlier indications that the MWR acquisition would be one of the first Task Orders on the new CS3 contract, would the Government provide insight as to whether the MWR opportunity is still intended to be part of CS3, or is the acquisition now slanted to be a full and open competition? If not part of CS3, would the Government kindly share the reasoning for the apparent change?

Answer 46: MWR was not identified as a CS3 Task Order by DISA.

Question 47: Reference SEC L 2.2.2.2

Would the government accept no smaller than 8‐pt. font for graphics and no smaller than 10‐pt. font for tables? 11‐pt. font is too large for graphics such as satellite contour maps (G/T and EIRP) and network diagrams. The large font covers important details. Tables in 10‐pt. font or smaller stand out are more legible.

Answer 47: No.

Question 48: Reference SEC C Tasks 1, 2, 3, and 4

Section C PWS Paragraph numbering is missing. There is no numbering for Task 1, Task 2, Task 3, Task 4, and their following Subtasks.

Please provide correct section numbering for SEC C PWS.

Answer 48: Corrected.

Question 49: Reference SEC L 2.2.1 and 4.2.2; SEC C PWS

Section L 2.2.1 Page Limitations and 4.2.2 Volume Organization 6) both list "Coverage Maps, Satellite availability reports, equipment specification sheets, link budgets etc." However, only Section C PWS

6.3.1.1. mentions coverage. The PWS does not mention the other documents. Section L 2.2.1 requests contractors include them as attachments. Section M lists coverage maps and link budget analysis under

b. Technical/Managment Factor (ii) Subfactor 2 a.

Please reference all required documents in SEC C PWS under appropriate section and indicate where to include them in contractor's submission in SEC L and SEC M.

Answer 49: If the contractor choses to include those documents, it should be included as attachments and will not count toward the page limitation.

Question 50: Reference SEC C PWS; SEC L 4.0, 4.1, 4.2, 4.2.1, 4.2.2; SEC M b. Technical/Management Factor (i) Subfactor 1 ‐ Internet Cafes and (ii) Subfactor 2 ‐ End‐to‐End managed Services

There are four Subfactors in Section C PWS; however, Sections L and M both indicate only Subfactor 1:

Internet Cafes and Subfactor 2: End‐to‐End Manged Services are to be addressed by the contractor for evaluation. For example, SEC C PWS 6.1 Task 1 ‐ Program Management and Subtasks 6.1.1, 6.1.2, and 6.1.3, are not addressed in SEC L Instructions 4.2.2 or SEC M002 b. Technical/Management Factor.

Where is the contractor to address all Section C PWS sections and subsections in Volume II Technical/Management in the alloted 40‐page maximum page limit?

Please clarify howand where contractor is to address each SEC C PWS section and what will/will not be evaluated.

Answer 50: As stated in the RFP, the technical proposal should include all information the offeror wants the Government to consider and evaluate regarding its company's ability to perform all required tasks and conform to all required terms and conditions. As stated in Section L2.0, "the offeror shall sufficiently address the requirements stated in the Performance Work Statement (PWS). Non‐ conformance with the instructions provided in this Information to Offerors may result in removal of the proposal from further evaluation." Further, Section M001(a) advises, "A contract may be awarded to the offeror ... whose proposal conforms to the solicitation's requirements (to include all stated terms, conditions, representations, certifications, and all other information required by Section L of this solicitation) and is judged to represent the lowest priced technically acceptable approach.

Question 51: Reference SEC C PWS: Section 6.2 and 6.3.1

Today there is a common Ku‐band infrastructure between both DISA MWR and Moralesat programs.

Will DISA continue to encourage the advantages of keeping these networks consistently on Ku‐band for quick deployable VSAT?

Address the common Ku Band platform in the SEC C PWS such as section 6.2.1.3.

Answer 51: The contractor will provide and maintain a complete turnkey solution as a service and all equipment will be returned to the contractor upon completion of the task order. The Government does not require any specific or common platform.

Question 52: Reference SEC C PWS: Section 13 GFE

Given that the incumbant has existing infrastructure purchased by the Government for the previous contract as GFE, and this equipment is obsolete, will the Government require "new" equipment be purchased?

Please include language that specifically addresses a requirement for all "new" equipment in each of the café's required.

Answer 52: PWS 6.1.2.1 states, “This transition will include installation of new Cafés at all sites.”

Further, the PWS is clear that no GFE will be provided and the contractor shall furnish all Internet Café equipment.

Question 53: Reference SEC B CLIN 0001AH.

CLIN 0001AH asked for a Small "Hybrid" Internet Café. However, we could not find a definition of Hybrid Café in the PWS.

Please explain in SEC C PWS the meaning of a "Hybrid" Internet Café.

Answer 53: This is defined in PWS 6.2.1.2. Hybrid wired/wireless Cafés shall include Internet services for the wired devices as noted in Table 2 as well as one wireless access point (WAP) to support up to 20 additional users within the perimeter of the Café structure.

Question 54: Reference PWS HC1013‐26‐R‐007 Paragraph 3 Background

The government plans to transition 20 Café’s within 30 days of award. THE PWS HC1013‐16‐R‐007 Paragraph 3. Background states the following in the last paragraph.

Previously, the Space and Naval Warfare Systems Command (SPAWAR) operated and maintained the program, comprising a network of hundreds of MWR Internet Cafés throughout the Middle East. In 2015, SPAWAR initiated transition of management of the program to the Defence Information Systems Agency (DISA), with transition completed in April 2016.

a. Will the Government provide a list of all existing and planned Café’s? There are existing locations in Afghanistan and other areas that are not listed in the original list of 20 transition sites.

b. Will the Government provide the list of Café’s per region and type?

c. Is the contractor to assume the other Café’s will transition? If so what volume does the Government anticipate?

Please provide the number, location, and size of all Café's and provide a transition schedule or plan.

Answer 54: Note – the Government does not plan to transition 20 Cafés within 30 days of award; the Government requires a transition plan for 20 Cafés within 30 days of award (PWS 6.1.2.1). Specific locations will be provided in the Task Order(s). The contractor shall develop the transition plan and schedule; it will not be provided by the Government.

a. Table 1 in PWS 6.1.2.1 lists all cafes known to be planned for transition by country and type and Table 5 provides additional detail. This is an ID/IQ contract; planned cafes are unknown.

b. Table 1 in PWS 6.1.2.1 lists all cafes known to be planned for transition by country and type and Table 5 provides additional detail. This is an ID/IQ contract; planned cafes are unknown.

c. No other cafés are known to be planned for transition at this time.

Question 55: Reference PWS HC1013‐26‐R‐007 Paragraph 6.2.4.5 Task 3 End to End Managed Services‐ Paragraph 6.3.5 Subtask 3.5 Local ISP Option

In Paragraph 6.2.4.5 of the PWS HC1013‐16‐R‐007 the Government states under the paragrapgh titled "Task 3 END‐To‐END Managed Services" the following: The contrator shall ensure that the internet Service Provider (ISP) is US‐Based. In Paragraph 6.3.5 Subtask 3.5 Local (ISP) Option the Government states : at a minimmum, the contractor shall coordinate with the local providers to provide the local ISP options for the locations in Table 5 below:

Does the Government no longer need a US Based internet Service Provider in these locations?

Will the Local ISP service be technically compliant?

Please Clarify the requirement for a US Based ISP.

Answer 55: The contractor shall ensure that the Internet Service is U.S.‐based; for example, Café users should access google.com (U.S.‐based) and not google.de (German‐based), regardless of transmission media.

Question 56: Reference SEC B Supplies or Services and Prices

SEC B Supplies or Services and Prices identifies 14 CLINs for the Base year and option years. Many of the CLINs have local ISP requirements, but don't include street address or exact locations of cafés. Offerors will be able to supply competative pricing for ISP service if clear location data is provided.

Please include street address or clear location data for each Café. Also, please include local requirements for ISP like installations from the ISP to the Café (i.e. construction, infrastructure, cabling, connectivity, provisioning)

Answer 56: The information in the PWS and Section B is as specific as the Government is able to provide at this time. The contractor shall indicate in the proposal any requirements for ISP like installations from the ISP to the Café (i.e. construction, infrastructure, cabling, connectivity, provisioning).

Question 57: Reference SEC C PWS 6.3.1.2

Does the CIR bandwidth requirements at each site include the additional bandwidth needed for encryption?

Please identify bandwidth requirements inclusive of encryption.

Answer 57: Data rates are exclusive of overhead. This has been clarified in PWS 6.3.1.3.

Question 58: Reference SEC C PWS 6.3 Task 3 End‐to‐End Managed Services

For the Internet Content Filtering requirement, will a Cloud based firewall be acceptable?

Please clarify if Cloud based firewalls are acceptable.

Answer 58: The contractor shall ensure the proposed solution complies with U.S. legal standards such as the Privacy Act, (i.e., protection of Personally Identifiable Information, where applicable) and uphold American Military standards of conduct (content filtered, piracy prevention, etc.).

Question 59: Reference SEC C PWS 9.0 Place of Performance

Who will be responsible if special construction is needed at some of these sites? Most cases there shouldn’t be any special construction; however, in some cases there might be. Who will be responsible for the Demarc Extensions for ISPs? Will this be the Government Program Office, Base Commander, or otherwise? The "last mile" of connectivity will be difficult to price given the lack of this information.

Please add detail that explains how special last mile construction will be coordinated, priced, and executed for each task order requiring ISP connectivity.

Answer 59: The Government understands that ‘last mile’ requirements are subject to change with each Café location. CLIN X004 for service initialization is intended to cover those requirements. The Government will include plug numbers for X003 and X004 (service initialization) to cover incidental site improvement.

Question 60: Reference SEC C PWS 6.2.1.7

PWS 6.2.1.7 states “…the future locations and corresponding facilities available at each location are undetermined, and in extreme cases, the Government may furnish only empty land area for an Internet Café. In those cases as specified in individual task orders, the contractor shall be required to provide/establish an appropriate shelter, power, and furnishings for the Internet Café.” This requirement adds significant performance, cost and schedule risk to meeting contract requirements.

Recommend that the Government provide a separate contract for shelter, power and furnishings.

Recommend the Government more clearly and specifically define the facility requirements or remove this from the PWS, to be supplied through another contract vehicle.

Answer 60: No. The Government feels this requirement is sufficiently defined to allow the contractor to propose a complete turnkey ‘Internet Café in a Box’ solution.

Question 61: Reference SEC C PWS 6.3.5 Local ISP Option

PWS Section 6.3.5 Subtask 3.5 Local ISP Option discusses the requirement to use local ISP connectivity in lieu of the Space Segment. It specifically states, “Should the Government choose to order Café services that utilize this option, the contractor shall ensure all other applicable terms of the contract are met, including service reliability/availability, throughput, and service levels as defined in Paragraph 7 and all performance requirements defined in Paragraph 6. in Table 5, ISP connectivity is limited in availability, expensive and unreliable."

Recommend the Government rephrase this PWS section to give the contractor the option to use either the local ISP connectivity or Space Segment. Ultimately, the contractor must meet the service level requirements, and the decision should be left to the contractor. Recommend areas like Afghanistan are satellite based given the ISP quality of service available. Also, is packet loss rates shall not exceed 3.0 x 10‐3 acceptable. We recommend that a packe loss of 3.0 x 10‐6 or higher.

Answer 61: The Government has clarified PWS 6.3.5. The Government will not change the packet loss requirement.

Question 62: Reference Section L, Instructions, Conditions, and Notices to Offerors or Respondents, Section 2.2

RFP Section 2.2 states that Volume II, Technical / Management section is limited to 40 pages. For a proposal as complex and extensive as HC1013‐16‐R‐0007, this is very restrictive.

Recommend changing the page limits to something greater – 75 pages?

Answer 62: No.

Question 63: Reference Pages 4‐14, Section B

There can be significant differences in support cost from country to country. Pricing a generic CLIN/Line Item may result in higher than actual prices for a given country as the bidders would need to minimize their risks.

It is recommended that the government either identifies the potential future countries/regions for these CLIN's/Line Items or allow per counrty cost as separate CLINS added on as needed bases after the contract is awarded.

Answer 63: The Government has accounted for regional differences to the maximum extent possible.

For example, shipping and travel are included as separate ODC CLINs. CLINs X001 and X002 do not include any items that are dependent on Café location.

Question 64: Reference Section B

The government has not provided directions or an explaination of how the CLINS are structured and organized.

Please provide a description of the organization of the CLINS in Section B. More specifically what do the 4 digit and 2 character designators mean?

Answer 64: They are a means of applying a unique designator to each CLIN in each year.

Question 65: Reference Page 298, Section C, Paragraph 6.1.2.1

The government states "DISA plans to transition 20 Cafés in the Southwest Asia region to this contract".

Please indicate whether these 20 sites have government owned Internet Café furniture (e.g. chairs, desk, etc) in a government owned building, or will the offeror be require to replace the café furniture and buildings at the start of the new contract.

Answer 65: The cafés will be specified in the task order(s); however, as indicated by the quantities in Section B, the offeror will not be required to replace Café buildings or furniture for the transitioning Cafés.

Question 66: Reference Page 300, Section C, Paragraph 6.2.1.7

The government states "However, the future locations and corresponding facilities available at each location are undetermined, and in extreme cases, the Government may furnish only empty land area for an Internet Café. In those cases as specified in individual task orders, the contractor shall be required to provide/establish an appropriate shelter, power, and furnishings for the Internet Café. The shelter must be sufficient to house all Internet Café equipment with appropriate environmental protection".

The government has not indicated the possible size of the internet cafe. Please indicate the maximum number of people in each shelter. In addition, please indicate whether the shelter will be required to house personnel or network equipment only.

Answer 66: Café sizes are described in Table 2. The sizes and types of Cafés that may require shelters and furnishings are described in CLINs X001AF‐X001AH and X002AF‐X002AH. As stated in PWS 6.2.1.7, “In those cases as specified in individual task orders, the contractor shall be required to provide/establish an appropriate shelter, power, and furnishings for the Internet Café. The shelter must be sufficient to house all Internet Café equipment with appropriate environmental protection. An individual work area with a desk/table and chair shall be provided for each computer and each phone.

Phones shall be kept separate from computers to allow privacy while supporting different users of each device.”

Question 67: Reference Page 399, Section J

The embedded files (Attachment 1: Section B Pricing Schedule, Attachment 2: IA Compliance Matrix) in Section J (List of Documents, Exhibits and Other Attachments) can not be opened.

Please reissue the embedded files separately as the file size maybe too large.

Answer 67: Attachments will be provided separately.

Question 68: Reference C.2.

The DRFP states, “[T]he Space and Naval Warfare Systems Command (SPAWAR) operated and maintained the program, comprising a network of hundreds of MWR Internet Cafés throughout the Middle East.” How many MWR Internet Cafés networks does the MWR Global ICP program currently include?

Answer 68: The current MWR program is not global and currently includes the 20 cafes indicated as requiring transition in PWS 6.1.2.1.

Question 69: Reference C.6.1.2.1.

The DRFP states, “[T]he contractor shall submit a Transition Plan for transitioning all current Cafés from the existing service to the new service.” What does “transition...to the new service” entail?

Answer 69: As stated in PWS 6.1.2.1, this transition will include installation of new Cafés at all sites indicated in Table 1 as well as activation of the contractor’s Internet Café services.

Question 70: Reference C.6.1.2.1.

The DRFP states, “[T]he contractor shall submit a Transition Plan for transitioning all current Cafés from the existing service to the new service.” Does “transition…to the new service” mean legacy equipment remains in place while inside plant (ISP) connectivity changes?

Answer 70: No. As stated in PWS 6.1.2.1, this transition will include installation of new Cafés at all sites indicated in Table 1 as well as activation of the contractor’s Internet Café services.

Question 71: Reference C.6.1.2.1.

The DRFP states, “[T]he contractor shall submit a Transition Plan for transitioning all current Cafés from the existing service to the new service.” Does “transition…to the new service” mean the equipment and ISP connectivity changes?

Answer 71: Yes. As stated in PWS 6.1.2.1, this transition will include installation of new Cafés at all sites indicated in Table 1 as well as activation of the contractor’s Internet Café services.

Question 72: Reference C.6.1.2.1.

The DRFP states, “[T]he contractor shall submit a Transition Plan for transitioning all current Cafés from the existing service to the new service.” Does “transition…to the new service” mean the contractor maintains and sustains the 20 cafés as they move to a new network operations center?

Answer 72: As stated in PWS 6.1.2.1, this transition will include installation of new Cafés at all sites indicated in Table 1 as well as activation of the contractor’s Internet Café services for those Cafés.

Question 73: Reference C.6.1.2.2.

The DRFP states, “All details necessary for effective transition planning (e.g., locations, engineering drawings, past usage and throughput, etc.) shall be provided in the task order documentation and will be reviewed during the Transition Kick‐Off Meeting.” Will the U.S. Government (USG) provide these “necessary details…e.g., locations, engineering drawings, past usage and throughput, etc.)” with the final request for proposal (RFP)? This information will enable offerors to provide informed, effective, and accurate proposals.

Answer 73: No.

Question 74: Reference C.6.1.2.2.

The DRFP states, “Following 30 days of task order award(s), the contractor shall deliver a Task Order Transition Plan, to include:…Project and milestone schedules[,] Transition to new facilities/shelters, if applicable[,] A risk mitigation plan[, and] Plans for service cutover to maintain a seamless transition for the Warfighter.” Are offerors expected to bid on replacing the ICPs?

Answer 74: As stated in PWS 6.1.2.1, 6.1.2.1. DISA plans to transition 20 Cafés in the Southwest Asia region to this contract. Within the first 30 days of task order award, the contractor shall submit a Transition Plan for transitioning all current Cafés from the existing service to the new service. This transition will include installation of new Cafés at all sites. The current Cafés are summarized in Table 1;

however, this information is subject to change and will be finalized prior to award of any transition task orders.

Question 75: Reference C.6.1.2.2.

The DRFP states, “Following 30 days of task order award(s), the contractor shall deliver a Task Order Transition Plan, to include:…Project and milestone schedules[,] Transition to new facilities/shelters, if applicable[,] A risk mitigation plan[, and] Plans for service cutover to maintain a seamless transition for the Warfighter.” Are offerors expected to bid only on maintaining legacy ICPs?

Answer 75: No. There is no requirement to maintain legacy Internet Cafés. All Cafés will be transitioned to the contractor’s service as stated in PWS 6.1.2.1.

Question 76: Reference C.6.2.1.3.

The DRFP states, “Small flyaway Cafés will not require contractor installation and shall be simple enough to deploy and set up without an on‐site field support representative.” Will the flyaway cafés remain contractorfurnished equipment (CFE)?

Answer 76: Yes.

Question 77: Reference C.6.2.1.3.

The DRFP states, “Small flyaway Cafés will not require contractor installation and shall be simple enough to deploy and set up without an on‐site field support representative.” Will the flyaway cafés become Government furnished equipment (GFE)?

Answer 77: No.

Question 78: Reference C.6.2.1.5.

The DRFP states, “Unless otherwise stated in the task order, CFE shall be installed and activated within 60 days after receipt of order by the contractor. Upon activation of service, all Internet Café equipment shall be operational, safe, and in working order. The Government reserves the right to inspect any equipment prior to Government acceptance.” After inspection and acceptance, does the USG intend for the equipment to become GFE?

Answer 78: No.

Question 79: Reference C.6.2.1.5.

The DRFP states, “Unless otherwise stated in the task order, CFE shall be installed and activated within 60 days after receipt of order by the contractor. Upon activation of service, all Internet Café equipment shall be operational, safe, and in working order. The Government reserves the right to inspect any equipment prior to Government acceptance.” If the USG intends for the equipment to become GFE after inspection and acceptance, this statement contradict the remainder of the DRFP as the document does not require or identify GFE.

Answer 79: The equipment will remain CFE. The Government will not purchase or otherwise take ownership of any equipment. None of the CFE will become GFE and all equipment will be returned to the contractor at the conclusion of the Task Order as stated in PWS 6.2.2.8.

Question 80: Reference C.6.2.1.5.

The DRFP states, “Unless otherwise stated in the task order, CFE shall be installed and activated within 60 days after receipt of order by the contractor. Upon activation of service, all Internet Café equipment shall be operational, safe, and in working order. The Government reserves the right to inspect any equipment prior to Government acceptance.” Does the USG intend to inspect the services provided?

Answer 80: Government surveillance of the services provided is described in the Quality Assurance Surveillance Plan in Section E.

Question 81: Reference C.6.2.1.5.

The DRFP states, “Unless otherwise stated in the task order, CFE shall be installed and activated within 60 days after receipt of order by the contractor. Upon activation of service, all Internet Café equipment shall be operational, safe, and in working order. The Government reserves the right to inspect any equipment prior to Government acceptance.” Are the ICPs company‐owned/company‐operated

(COCO)?

Answer 81: All Café items provided by the offeror as part of the complete turnkey solution are CFE and will remain CFE.

Question 82: Reference C.6.2.1.5.

The DRFP states, “CFE shall be installed and activated within 60 days after receipt of order by the contractor.” Are offerors expected to have supplies in stock to meet the 60‐day order‐to‐operational timeline?

Answer 82: Offerors are expected to meet the requirements stated in the PWS; the Government will not dictate how the requirement is met.

Question 83: Reference C.6.2.1.7.

The DRFP states, “[T]he future locations and corresponding facilities available at each location are undetermined, and in extreme…