HC102816R0012-0001 _CSCII_RFP_Amendment.pdf

AMENDMENT OF SOLICITATION/MODIFICATION OF CONTRACT

Except as provided herein, all terms and conditions of the document referenced in Item 9A or 10A, as heretofore changed, remains unchanged and in full force and effect.

15A. NAME AND TITLE OF SIGNER (Type or print)

30-105-04EXCEPTION TO SF 30

APPROVED BY OIRM 11-84

STANDARD FORM 30 (Rev. 10-83) Prescribed by GSA

FAR (48 CFR) 53.243

The purpose of this amendment is to revise the solicitation as follow s:

A. SF33 Solicitation form, pg. 5, the contract value minimum amount w as inadvertently set at $15,000,000. The minimum amount is corrected to reflect $1,500,000.

B. Section J, Atch C-1, PWS Appendix 3: The incorrect document w as inadvertently uploaded. See corrected document, dated 4 Aug 2016.

C. Section L, Instructions to Offerors, has been revised. See revised Section L document (corrections apprear in red markup using "Track Changes" tool).

D. Attachment L-4, Brand Name J&A, approved 20 May 2016 (redacted version), is being provided.

1. CONTRACT ID CODE PAGE OF PAGES

J 1 2

16A. NAME AND TITLE OF CONTRACTING OFFICER (Type or print)

16C. DATE SIGNED

BY 04-Aug-2016

16B. UNITED STATES OF AMERICA15C. DATE SIGNED15B. CONTRACTOR/OFFEROR

(Signature of Contracting Officer)(Signature of person authorized to sign)

8. NAME AND ADDRESS OF CONTRACTOR (No., Street, County, State and Zip Code) X HC1028-16-R-0012

X 9B. DATED (SEE ITEM 11)

02-Aug-2016

10B. DATED (SEE ITEM 13)

9A. AMENDMENT OF SOLICITATION NO.

11. THIS ITEM ONLY APPLIES TO AMENDMENTS OF SOLICITATIONS

X The above numbered solicitation is amended as set forth in Item 14. The hour and date specified for receipt of Offer is extended, X is not extended.

Offer must acknowledge receipt of this amendment prior to the hour and date specified in the solicitation or as amended by one of the following methods:

(a) By completing Items 8 and 15, and returning 1 copies of the amendment; (b) By acknowledging receipt of this amendment on each copy of the offer submitted;

or (c) By separate letter or telegram which includes a reference to the solicitation and amendment numbers. FAILURE OF YOUR ACKNOWLEDGMENT TO BE RECEIVED AT THE PLACE DESIGNATED FOR THE RECEIPT OF OFFERS PRIOR TO THE HOUR AND DATE SPECIFIED MAY RESULT IN

REJECTION OF YOUR OFFER. If by virtue of this amendment you desire to change an offer already submitted, such change may be made by telegram or letter, provided each telegram or letter makes reference to the solicitation and this amendment, and is received prior to the opening hour and date specified.

12. ACCOUNTING AND APPROPRIATION DATA (If required)

13. THIS ITEM APPLIES ONLY TO MODIFICATIONS OF CONTRACTS/ORDERS.

IT MODIFIES THE CONTRACT/ORDER NO. AS DESCRIBED IN ITEM 14.

A. THIS CHANGE ORDER IS ISSUED PURSUANT TO: (Specify authority) THE CHANGES SET FORTH IN ITEM 14 ARE MADE IN THE

CONTRACT ORDER NO. IN ITEM 10A.

B. THE ABOVE NUMBERED CONTRACT/ORDER IS MODIFIED TO REFLECT THE ADMINISTRATIVE CHANGES (such as changes in paying office, appropriation date, etc.) SET FORTH IN ITEM 14, PURSUANT TO THE AUTHORITY OF FAR 43.103(B).

C. THIS SUPPLEMENTAL AGREEMENT IS ENTERED INTO PURSUANT TO AUTHORITY OF:

D. OTHER (Specify type of modification and authority)

E. IMPORTANT: Contractor is not, is required to sign this document and return copies to the issuing office.

14. DESCRIPTION OF AMENDMENT/MODIFICATION (Organized by UCF section headings, including solicitation/contract subject matter where feasible.)

10A. MOD. OF CONTRACT/ORDER NO.

2. AMENDMENT/MODIFICATION NO. 5. PROJECT NO.(If applicable)

6. ISSUED BY

3. EFFECTIVE DATE

04-Aug-2016

CODE

DISA/DITCO-SCOTT-PL83

2300 EAST DRIVE

SCOTT AFB IL 62225-5406

HC1028 7. ADMINISTERED BY (If other than item 6)

4. REQUISITION/PURCHASE REQ. NO.

CODE

See Item 6

FACILITY CODECODE

EMAIL:TEL:

HC1028-16-R-0012

SECTION SF 30 BLOCK 14 CONTINUATION PAGE

SUMMARY OF CHANGES

SECTION SF 30 - BLOCK 14 CONTINUATION PAGE

The following have been added by full text:

IDC CONSTRAINTS

CONTRACT MINIMUM/MAXIMUM QUANTITY AND CONTRACT VALUE

The minimum quantity and contract value for all orders issued against this contract shall not be less than the minimum quantity and contract value stated in the following table. The maximum quantity and contract value for all orders issued against this contract shall not exceed the maximum quantity and contract value stated in the following table.

MINIMUM

QUANTITY

MINIMUM

AMOUNT

MAXIMUM

QUANTITY

MAXIMUM

AMOUNT

$1,500,000.00 $902,000,000.00

(End of Summary of Changes)

JUSTIFICATION FOR OTHER THAN FULL AND

OPEN COMPETITION (OTFAOC)

Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) Part 6 Justification & Approval (J&A), Supporting

Procurements under FAR Part 12, FAR Subpart 13.501, and FAR Part 15

Purchase Request Number: Not applicable at the contract level Contract Number: To be determined (TBD) Task/Delivery Order Number: TBD Procurement Title: CISCO Nexus Hardware to Ensure the Full Operational Capabilities of the Communications Capacity Services Contract (CSC II) Contracting Office: Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA) Defense Information Technology Contracting Office (DITCO) PL8322 Estimated Value:

Statutory Authority: 10 U.S.C. §2304(c)(1) FAR 6.302-1/Defense FAR Supplement 206.302-1

JUSTIFICATION FOR OTFAOC

Justification for OTFAOC Number: JA16-034

Upon the basis of the following justification, I, as the Senior Procurement Executive, hereby approve the use of other than full and open competition of the proposed contractual action, pursuant to the authority of 10 U.S.C. §2304(c)(1) and FAR 6.302-1/Defense FAR Supplement (DFARS) 206.302-1 – Only one responsible source and no other supplies or services will satisfy agency requirements.

JUSTIFICATION

1. REQUIRING AGENCY AND CONTRACTING OFFICE:

a. Requiring Agency:

DISA Capacity Services (IML21) 1 Overcash Avenue Chambersburg, PA 17201

b. Contracting Office:

DISA/DITCO Scott, PL8322 2300 East Drive, Building 3600 Scott Air Force Base, IL 62225-5406

2. NATURE/DESCRIPTION OF ACTION(S):

a. CSC II will be a competed single award indefinite delivery/indefinite quantity contract to provide hardware, software, routers, switches, appliances, monitoring equipment, etc. The purpose of this J&A is to justify the use of brand name CISCO Nexus switches on a utility model basis under the CSC II contract. CISCO Nexus switches are required, for compatibility purposes, with the currently installed fabric architecture. CISCO Nexus switches include flexible extender module (small), fabric capable switch (medium, large and

CISCO NEXUS Communications Capacity Services (CSC II)-JA16-034)

Page 2 of 6 Pages extra-large); campus Local Area Network (LAN) access layer switch with redundant supervisors; campus LAN access layer switch; and data replication switch.

b. The period of performance for CSC II contract will be a base period of five years with five 1-year options. The five-year base period allows the Government to take full advantage of the economic life of contractor provided communication equipment and services. The J&A will specify the use of CISCO Nexus switches throughout the life of the CSC II contract.

3. DESCRIPTION OF SUPPLIES/SERVICES:

a. Provide, through the CSC II contract, a solution that ensures the continued availability of

CISCO Nexus switch technologies to complement the existing installed network fabric architecture. The contract is intended to provide reliable, responsive, and cost effective communication infrastructure services at all network layers. Continental United States (CONUS) and outside CONUS (OCONUS) switches comprise approximately % of the CSC II total budget.

b. CISCO Nexus switches make up % of the devices currently deployed in the DISA network architecture on the existing contract, known as “CSC I,” contract number HC1028-11-D- 0102. The proprietary nature of their use is further explained in Section 5. These devices were acquired under a ‘utility service’ and will be tech refreshed when CSC II is awarded.

c. These devices will be sustained under a ‘utility service’ model under the new CSC II

Communications as a Service contract resulting from an award expected early in FY17.

Under this model, all hardware is provided by and maintained by the contractor for the duration of the requirement. Government usage levels will be monitored and adjusted monthly to provide only the hardware capacity necessary for operation.

d. The requirement is for the continued use of brand name CISCO Nexus switch technologies as currently deployed equipment is replaced by the CSC II contractor. Maintaining this technology is absolutely critical to the seamless migration of network services between contracts and will eliminate the time required to re-engineer solutions while simultaneously eliminating the inductions of failures into the supported infrastructures. Adoption of an alternate fabric technology during the transition between contracts will be disruptive to DISA network operations, causing significant downtimes to the supported mission partner applications. It is paramount, during the transition period, that DISA be able to operate parallel network infrastructures that are closest to the supported servers in order to facilitate the migration of the servers between the old and new networks; switching fabric technologies will hinder this ability and cause widespread and simultaneous outages to hundreds of servers at each DISA location. Additionally, migration away from the existing Nexus switch technologies will require the agency to re-invest unnecessary expense in tools to monitor and sustain the new technology while divesting the intellectual capital of the technicians supporting the current infrastructure and thus weakening the overall network infrastructure.

4. IDENTIFICATION OF STATUTORY AUTHORITY:

Page 3 of 6 Pages

This action will be awarded in accordance with 10 U.S.C. §2304(c)(1), as implemented by 10 U.S.C. §2304(c)(1) and FAR 6.302-1/DFARS 206.302-1, “Only one responsible source and no other supplies or services will satisfy agency requirements.”

5. DEMONSTRATION OF CONTRACTOR’S UNIQUE QUALIFICATIONS:

a. Interoperability: The requirement is for brand name CISCO Nexus switches. No other switch technology can integrate into the existing DISA network architecture as it is currently deployed. CISCO Nexus switches are a strategic foundational pillar for the DISA network infrastructure. Replacement of this foundational core would be highly disruptive to the network infrastructure and its operational capabilities, causing unnecessary expense and loss of productivity. Introducing, into the DISA infrastructure, other than CISCO Nexus switching technologies would require the stand-up of parallel networks for the duration of the migration period. This duplicated infrastructure will complicate the supported environments, increase risk to our mission partners and increase cost by an average of approximately $ per data center per year.

b. Security: DISA Data Center switching infrastructures, as currently deployed enforces security mandated separation between enclaves within the same physical devices. Nexus devices make it possible to segregate a single device into multiple logically separated enclaves without the need to deploy numerous additional devices. The use of the CISCO Nexus technologies over the past five years has reduced network security related faults by approximately percent while totally eliminating the potential for cross-domain fault inductions.

c. Cost Impact:

1) The use of CISCO Nexus devices significantly reduces the number of devices required to address and support alternate network protocols. This has improved the operational posture of the sites by reducing network and management complexity, device footprint, power consumption and cooling requirements. (Other contractors represented in the DISA inventory are F5 Networks, 11%; Juniper, 6%;and Lantronix and Palo Alto, 5% each. Making up the remaining 7% are devices from A10, Apcon, Vivio Networks, Bluecat, Bluecoat, Brocade, Imperva, NetScout, Pulse, Riverbed, RSA, Sourcefire, Thales and VSS Monitoring.)

2) The continued use of CISCO Nexus switches and associated modules results in a cost-effective deployment model for DISA since selection of a different architecture would require significant re-engineering efforts to replace the existing architecture. CISCO Nexus devices comprise 71% of DISA’s existing switching infrastructure. The re-engineering away from the existing CISCO Nexus solution is estimated at $ in labor costs. Additionally, more than 140 communications engineers and maintenance personnel would have to undergo significant re-training to maintain, sustain and support an alternate technology. The use of an alternate technology forces DISA to re-write hundreds of scripts and software products currently in use which would, in-turn, elongate the deployment times of the devices, further wasting personnel and financial resources.

Page 4 of 6 Pages

6. FEDBIZOPPS ANNOUNCEMENT/POTENTIAL SOURCES:

A presolicitation synopsis for the overall CSC II procurement will be published on the FedBizOpps website as required by FAR 5.204. Additionally, as required by FAR 6.305(c), a redacted version of this supporting J&A will also be posted on FedBizOpps with the solicitation package.

7. DETERMINATION OF FAIR AND REASONABLE COST:

A determination will be made by the contracting officer that the anticipated price to the Government is fair and reasonable, based upon price analysis methods in FAR 15.401(b).

8. MARKET RESEARCH:

a. Market research was conducted in August 2015 by knowledgeable DISA network engineers.

The focus of this research was to determine the availability of contractor solutions which could seamlessly integrate into the existing network topology.

b. The team performed a comprehensive review of all commercially available technologies, the goal being to determine if other than CISCO Nexus hardware was a solution that the government could consider. The viability of a contractor’s product was based upon its ability to fulfill the baseline requirements as stated in the project Performance Work Statement.

Initial product research was conducted through the use of contractor information to match product features against our required capabilities for functionality, highly available and reliable network switch architecture.

c. The following contractor products were compared for compatibility, functionality and features required by DISA: CISCO, F5 Networks, Juniper, Lantronix, Palo Alto, A10, Apcon, Bivio Networks, Bluecat, Bluecoat, Brocade, Imperva, NetScout, Pulse, Riverbed, RSA, Sourcefire, Thales and VSS Monitoring.

d. Market research failed to reveal any other OEM switch technologies or protocols that were compatible with the CISCO Nexus protocols currently in use. The team determined these incompatible technologies would require significant modifications to the existing infrastructure to achieve functional integration. The ability of the CISCO Nexus switches to enable the use of multiple concurrent links without inducing spanning tree faults is crucial to the current functionality and sustainability of the network and is required by DISA in order to support mission partner workloads and requirements.

9. ANY OTHER SUPPORTING FACTS:

a. A large deployment of Nexus switches currently resides within the DISA DECCs. This initial solution took over nine months to engineer and required three dedicated senior engineering resources. If DISA were required to introduce a different switching technology and/or infrastructure, it would take an estimated three years to redesign and redeploy the entire solution.

Page 5 of 6 Pages

b. The time required to complete the technology refresh process would lengthen from 24 to 36 months, induce extra complexities, risks and increase overall project costs.

c. Training on new hardware for support staff and engineers would expend additional time and resources at a considerable expense to the government.

10. LISTING OF INTERESTED SOURCES:

Not applicable, since this will be part of CSC II contract which will be competed full and open.

11. ACTIONS THE AGENCY MAY TAKE TO REMOVE OR OVERCOME BARRIERS

THAT LED TO THE EXCEPTION TO FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION:

a. Procurement History: DISA currently spends $ annually on CISCO brand equipment switches in support of the existing CSC I contract.

b. Actions are taken on a regular basis to remove barriers to competition while providing cost effective solutions for the protection and advancement of the agency’s mission critical systems. If CISCO elects to surrender their legal ownership, copyright, and/or intellectual property rights and move toward providing an open source solution for the products being purchased under this procurement, then DISA will seek open competition.

Regardless, the government will continue to search the marketplace to determine if alternative solutions exist. If the government should determine that the above brand name products are no longer required, the government will seek competition for the required functionality. DISA’s engineering philosophy is moving towards a more heterogeneous and less vendor prognostic model that will reduce the burdening of transitioning off the CISCO Nexus platform allowing DISA new protocols and technologies in the future. This process is expected to occur by the final base year on the CSC II contract with plans for the follow-on effort to be fully competed.

12. REFERENCE TO THE APPROVED ACQUISITION PLAN (AP):

The AP for the entire CSC II procurement is being routed and will be approved by the DISA Senior Procurement Executive as required by DARS Table 7.3.

CISCO NEXUS Communications Capacity Services (CSC ll)-JAl6-034)

TECHNICAL CERTIFICATION: I certify that the supporting data under my cognizance, which are included in the J&A, are accurate and complete, to the best of my knowledge and belief.

DA TE: 30 March 2016

REQUIREMENTS CERTIFICATION: I certify that the supporting data under my cognizance, which are included in the J&A, are accurate and complete, to the best of my knowledge and belief.

DATE: 30 March 2016

CONTRACTING OFFICER CERTIFICATION: I certify that this justification is accurate and complete, to the best of my knowledge and belief.

NAME: LISA A. O'DONNELL

O'DONNELL.LISA. ~';!,":~

SIGNATURE: ANN.1230404840 ~~ ... -

o..- 201e03JO 1uooe~

TITLE/ORGANIZATION: Contracting Officer, DITCO-PL8322

PHONE: (618) 229-9721 DATE: 30 March 2016

SENIOR PROCUREMENT EXECUTIVE APPROVAL: I have reviewed this justification and find it to be accurate and complete to the best of my knowledge and belief. Since this justification exceeds , this review serves as approval.

DATE:

ALL QUESTIONS REGARDING THIS JUSTIFICATION ARE TO BE REFERRED TO

Lisa O'Donnell, (618) 229-9721, lisa.a.odonnell4.civ@mail.mil.

Page 6 of 6 Pages

JA for CSCII_clean 13May16

JA for CSCII_Signature Page_30 Mar_2016

APPENDIX 3- Technical Assistance and Consulting Support

Technology Consultant I

Technology Consultant II

Technology Consultant III

Technology Consultant IV

Technology Consultant V

Job Level Definitions

Entry: Applies basic foundation of a function’s principles, theories and concepts to assignments of limited scope. Utilizes professional concepts and theoretical knowledge acquired through specialized training, education or previous experience. Exercises independent judgment within defined parameters. Develops expertise and practical knowledge of applications within business environment .Acts as team member by providing information, analysis and recommendations in support of team efforts.

Intermediate: Applies intermediate level of subject matter knowledge to solve a variety of common business issues. Works on problems / projects of moderately complex scope. Exercise independent judgment within defined practices and procedures to determine appropriate action. Acts as an informed team member providing analysis of information and limited project direction input. Follows established guidelines and interprets policies. Evaluates unique circumstances and makes recommendations.

Specialist: Applies experience and subject matter knowledge to solve common and complex business issues within established guidelines and recommends appropriate alternatives. Works on problems / projects of diverse complexity and scope. Exercises independent judgment within generally defined policies and practices to identify and select a solution. May act as a team or project leader providing direction to team activities and facilitates information validation and team decision-making process. Provides guidance to employees in lower job levels. May seek advice in order to make decisions on complex issues.

Expert: Applies advanced subject matter knowledge to complex business issues, and is regarded by others within as a subject matter expert. Frequently contributes to the development of new ideas/methods. Usually works on complex problems or projects where analysis of situations or data requires an in depth evaluation of multiple factors. Regularly exercises significant independent judgment within broadly defined policies and practices to determine best method for accomplishing work and achieving objectives. Sometimes directs and supervises within area of expertise. Leads and/or provides expertise to functional project teams and may participate in cross-functional initiatives. Provides mentoring and guidance to employees at lower job levels. Acts as an expert providing direction and guidance to process improvements and establishing policies. Frequently represents the organization to external customers/clients.

Master: Unique mastery and recognized expertise on relevant subject matter knowledge including technologies, theories, or techniques. Regularly contributes to the development of innovative principles and ideas. Works in the more complex disciplines in which the company must operate to be successful. Provides highly innovative solutions. Routinely exercises independent judgment in developing methods, techniques and criteria for achieving objectives. Develops strategy and sets functional policy and direction. Often directs and supervises within area of expertise. Often leads large, cross-division functional teams or projects that affect the organizations long-term goals and objectives Often participates in cross-division, multi-function teams.

Technology Consultant I

Technology Consultant II

Technology Consultant III

Technology Consultant IV

Technology Consultant V

Responsibilities

•Responsible for delivery of assigned tasks within the delivery cycle of a project. Understands a number of technologies in order to provide technical systems management support or deliver part of a detailed technical design which meets customer requirements. Tasks may include performing systems configurations, troubleshooting systems errors/problems, monitoring and/or testing systems performance, and contribute to the design of technical solutions for customer environments •Works under supervision of technical lead and with customer nominated representatives to accomplish assigned tasks. Participates in chosen technical community or profession, and regularly attends profession or community of interest

•Responsible for delivery of assigned tasks within the delivery cycle of a project. Understands a broad spectrum of technology in order to deliver part of a detailed technical design, which meets customer requirements. Tasks may include installing new systems applications; updating applications, firmware, and drivers; creating boundaries for as well as performing configuration and testing activities; applications programming for assigned modules within a larger program; assisting in the preparation of technical presentations and demonstrations; and participating in customer meetings. •Works with minimal direction from the technical lead and with customer nominated representatives to accomplish assigned tasks. Contributes to design for specific deliverables and assists in the development of technical solutions. •Uses knowledge tools and re uses information for the benefit of projects, and of professional development.

•Responsible for implementing part or all of the technical solution to the client, in accordance with an agreed technical design. Occasionally responsible for providing a detailed technical design for enterprise solutions. Understands a broad spectrum of technology in order to provide part or all of a detailed technical design which meets customer requirements. •Often leads small to medium technical projects. Works with and under the direction of the Project/Technical Manager and with customer nominated representatives. Liaises with Solutions Architect as appropriate. •Provides technical support and input on the application of technology to a defined business segment. Provides advice on solution and integration opportunities to defined segments. •Provides technical leadership on specific integration activities that are part of an engagement •Provides planning and design support for the development of solution architectures that will be implemented in a multiple system environment.

•Responsible for verifying and implementing the detailed technical design solution to the problem as identified by the Project/Technical Manager. Often responsible for providing a detailed technical design for enterprise solutions. Is often the Principal Consultant who analyzes and develops enterprise technology solutions. •Regularly leads in the technical assessment and delivery of specific technical solutions to the customer. Provides a team structure conducive to high performance, and manages the team lifecycle stages •Coordinates implementation of new installations, designs, and migrations for technology solutions in one of the following work domains: networks, applications or platforms. •Provides advanced technical consulting and advice to others on proposal efforts, solution design, system management, tuning and modification of solutions. •Collects and determines data from appropriate sources to assist in determining customer needs and requirements. Responds to requests for technical information from customers. Develops customer technology solutions using various industry products and technologies. •Engages in technical problem solving across multiple technologies; often needs to develop new methods to apply to the situation.

•Usually responsible for providing a detailed technical design for enterprise solutions. Is usually the Principal Consultant who analyzes and develops enterprise technology solutions. •Regularly leads large cross functional teams to include technical management of client staff assigned to implementation team in the completion of one or more solution requirements, architecture, or implementation deliverables. •Provides the technical direction required to resolve complex issues to ensure the on-time delivery of solutions that meet customer expectations. May need to develop new methods to apply to situations. •Provides advanced technical consulting and advice to proposal efforts, solution design. Provides consulting advice to customer senior IT leadership and assets strategic direction for customers based on solutions and products. •Works with peers outside immediate organization to define and characterize complex technology or process problems and/or develops new solutions, yet works independently to drive technical problems to a solution

HC1028-16-R-0012

Amendment 0001

SECTION L – INSTRUCTIONS TO OFFERORS

L.1.0 Program Title and Objectives

The purpose of this contract is to obtain reliable, responsive, and cost effective communication infrastructure services in both DISA and at other DISA-approved locations. DISA's goal is to obtain a dynamically scalable communications capability utilizing an on-demand service approach for new (unless approved by the Government) equipment that can readily adjust to both increases and decreases in communications requirements and which is priced on a utility ("as ordered") basis for communication hardware.

For all communications capacity requirements, the service provider will acquire, transport and provide the necessary hardware, hardware maintenance, communications operating software and service to support the communication infrastructure associated with this contract as a Capacity Service. The contractor shall also provide cabinets, racks and cabling as Supply Items, owned by DISA.

The Government intends to award a single, firm fixed price ID/IQ contract. Award will be made to the offeror whose proposal represents the best value in accordance with the evaluation criteria defined in Section M, Evaluation Factors for Award. The Government reserves the right to make no award at all.

For consideration in developing the proposal, funding will be provided annually via issuance of a task order(s). Incremental funding will be utilized in accordance with (IAW) DFARS Clause 252.232-7007. The contract ceiling for the overall contract lifecycle is $902M.

L.2.0 General Instructions

For the purpose of this solicitation, an offeror is defined as a prime contractor. Only one reference regarding subcontractor experience or past performance will be recognized. Each offeror, identified by a distinct CAGE code, may submit only one proposal for this RFP.

L.2.1 Use of Non-Government Evaluators. Non-government personnel will not be utilized in the evaluation of proposals.

L.2.2 Government Furnished Information (GFI). There may be GFI at the contract level. There will be no physical library or reading room for this solicitation; however, a virtual bidders library is being provided.

L.2.3 General Proposal Guidance

a. This section provides general guidance for preparing proposals as well as specific instructions on the format and content of the proposal. The offeror's proposal must include all data and information requested by the RFP and must be submitted in accordance with these instructions. Non-conformance with the instructions provided in this section may result in removal from competition.

b. The proposal shall be clear, concise, and shall include sufficient detail for effective evaluation and for substantiating the validity of stated claims. The proposal should not simply rephrase or restate the Government's requirements but rather shall provide convincing rationale to address how the offeror intends to meet these requirements. Offerors shall assume that the Government has no prior knowledge of the offeror’s facilities and experience and will base the Government’s evaluation only on the information presented in the offeror's proposal.

c. Elaborate brochures or documentation, detailed art work, or other embellishments are unnecessary and will not be considered part of the proposal, but will be considered part of the page count.

d. The offeror shall make a clear statement in block 12 of the cover page to the SF33 and Volume I cover page that the proposal is valid for a minimum of 365 days from the proposal due date.

e. In accordance with FAR Subpart 4.8 (Government Contract Files), the Government will retain one digital copy of all unsuccessful proposals. Unless the offeror requests otherwise, the Government will destroy extra copies of unsuccessful proposals.

L.2.4 General Information

L.2.4.1 Point of Contact. The KO and the contract specialist (CS) are the only points of contact for this procurement. Address any questions or concerns to the KO and CS. Written requests for clarification must be sent to the KO and CS at the email address located in DARS Clause 52.204-9000, Points of Contact, of the solicitation.

L.2.4.2 Debriefings. The KO will notify unsuccessful offerors of the source selection decision in accordance with FAR 15.503. Upon such notification, unsuccessful offerors may request and receive a debriefing. Offerors desiring a debriefing must make their request in accordance with the requirements of FAR 15.505 or 15.506, as applicable. Excluded offerors are entitled to no more than one debriefing.

L.2.4.3 Discrepancies. If an offeror believes that the requirements in these instructions contain an error, omission, or are otherwise unsound, the offeror shall immediately notify the KO or CS in writing with supporting rationale.

L.2.4.4. Electronic Reference Documents. All referenced documents for this solicitation are available on the Federal Business Opportunities (FedBizOpps) web site at http://www.fedbizopps.gov. Potential offerors are encouraged to subscribe for real-time e-mail notifications when information has been posted to the website for this solicitation.

L.2.4.5 Exchanges of Information

a. Exchanges of source selection information between Government and offerors will be controlled by the KO or contract specialists. Evaluation notices and responses will be transmitted as e-mails and will be treated and marked as Source Selection Sensitive Information. Questions/comments will only be entertained if received in email and only when submitted on the provided Attachment L-1 Questions and Answer Matrix. Questions/comments are due 9:00 am (CST) on August 12, 2016. Questions submitted after the deadline may not be answered. The email is to be addressed to the KO and CS at the to the following email addresses:

Email Address: lisa.a.odonnell4.civ@mail.mil

Attn: Lisa A. O’Donnell

Contracting Officer

Email Address: miguel.a.colungahuerta.civ@mail.mil

Attn: Miguel A. Colunga-Huerta

Contract Specialist

PL8322 (Hardware Section)

2300 East Drive

Scott AFB, IL 62225-5406

Subject Line Reference: RFP HC1028-16-R-0012, Contractor Name, Source Selection Information See FAR 2.101 and 3.104

b. No information concerning this solicitation or requests for clarification will be provided in response to offeror-initiated telephone calls. All such requests must be made in writing and submitted to the above email address. Written inquiries will be answered in writing and provided to all offerors. However, because of administrative time, written inquiries may not be answered when requests are received by the above addressee after the original due date for receipt of questions as specified in this solicitation. The timeframe for submitting inquiries will not be extended as a result of an extension to the due date for the receipt of offers, unless authorized by the KO.

c. The Government intends to award without discussions. Therefore, the offeror’s initial proposal should contain the offeror’s best approach/terms for technical, management, past performance, and price; however, despite this intent, the Government reserves the right to conduct discussions if the Source Selection Authority (SSA) determines they are necessary. If the SSA determines discussions are necessary, a competitive range will be established. Based on the ratings of each proposal against all evaluation criteria, the contracting officer shall establish a competitive range comprised of all of the most highly rated proposals, unless the range is further reduced for purposes of efficiency pursuant to FAR 15.306(c)(2). In the event issues pertaining to a proposed contract cannot be resolved to the SSA's satisfaction, the Government reserves the right to withdraw and cancel the solicitation. In such event, offerors will be notified in writing.

L.2.5 Organization/Page Limits

L.2.5.1 Proposal Organization. The offeror shall prepare the proposal as set forth in the Proposal Organization Table (Table L.1 below). The titles and contents of the volumes shall be as defined in this table, all of which shall be within the required page limits as specified in Table L.1. The contents of each proposal volume are described in applicable paragraphs of Section L as noted in the table below.

Table L.1 Proposal Organization.

VOL.

RFP

PARA #

VOL. TITLE

PAGE LIMIT

I

L3

Executive Summary

N/A

Cover Page

1 Page

Readme File

1 Page

Table of Contents

No Limit

Glossary of Abbreviations and Acronyms

No Limit

II

L4

Technical/Management Approach (Factor 1)

Table of Contents

No Limit

Compliance Requirements

4 pages

Technical/Management Approach (Factor 1)

(to include all subfactors)

60 pages

III

L5

Past Performance (Factor 2)

Summary PageTable of Contents

1 PageNo Limit

Offeror’s Past Performance Information Sheets

15 pages (5 pages per past performance effort) (Summary Page not included in page count))

IV

L6

Cost/Price (Factor 3)

Price Narrative

No Limit

Pricing Spreadsheet; CSC II Pricing Proposal

No Limit

V

L7

Additional Requirements

Table of Contents

No Limit

Contract Information

No Limit

Small Business Participation Plan/Subcontracting Plan (Factor 4)

No Limit

Organizational and Consultant Conflict of Interest Mitigation Plan

No limit

SCRM Plan

20 pages

DD254, DoD Contract Security Classification Specification

No Limit

Cross Reference Matrix

No Limit

L.2.5.2 Page Limitations. Page limitations shall be treated as maximums. If exceeded, the excess pages will not be read or considered in the evaluation of the proposal. Page limitations shall not be circumvented by including inserted text boxes/pop-ups or internet links to additional information; such inclusions are not acceptable and may be cause for elimination of the proposal from consideration. Page limitations may be placed on responses to Evaluation Notices (ENs). The specified page limits for EN responses will be identified in the letters forwarding the ENs to the offerors. The Government reserves the right not to consider for award any proposal that does not adhere to the administrative requirements of this solicitation. Each page shall be counted except the following: table of contents, glossaries and blank pages shall not be counted and no information on those pages will be evaluated.

L.2.5.3 Page Size and Format.

a. A page is defined as the material that fits between page breaks in a Microsoft Office Word document. Pages shall be 8.5 x 11 inches in format size. The font type/text size shall be no smaller than 12-point Times New Roman (no other font variations are acceptable) font for all text. For all tables, charts, graphs and figures included in the proposal, the text shall be no smaller than 10-point Times New Roman font.

b. The Technical/Management Volume of the proposal is to be submitted as an Adobe Acrobat, Portable Document Format (PDF) document. The document may not be protected to prevent copying of text. Tracking, kerning, and leading values shall not be changed from the default values of the word processing or page layout software. Use at least 1 inch margins on the top and bottom and 1-inch side margins. The pages of individual files within each volume shall be numbered sequentially.

c. Legible charts, graphs and figures may be used wherever practical to depict organizations, systems and layout, implementation schedules, plans, etc. These displays shall be uncomplicated, legible, and shall not exceed a single page in size. Tables whose total length (number of rows) exceed a single page may be continued by the use of repeating headers. For tables, charts, graphs and figures, the text shall be no smaller than 10-point Times New Roman font.

L.2.6 Cost or Pricing Information. All cost or pricing information shall be addressed ONLY in the Cost/Price Proposal Volume. The KO will review each proposal to ensure cost/price information is not mentioned outside of the Cost/Price Volume.

L.2.7 Table of Contents. Each volume, except the Cost/Price Volume IV, shall contain a more detailed table of contents to delineate the subparagraphs within that volume.

L.2.8 Glossary of Abbreviations and Acronyms. Volume I shall contain a glossary of all abbreviations and acronyms used, and with an explanation for each. Glossaries of Abbreviations and Acronyms do not count against the page limitations for that volume. Each Abbreviation and Acronym shall be spelled out in its entirety the first time used.

L.2.9 Proposal Submission

a. To respond to this solicitation, the offeror shall deliver an electronic proposal to https://www.ditco.disa.mil/vendors/ in accordance with the following instructions:

Submitting proposals via the worldwide web: Prior to submitting proposals, the offerors shall be registered in System for Award Management (http://www.sam.gov). The offeror must also have an External Certification Authority (ECA), located at: http://iase.disa.mil/pki/eca/. This webpage provides links to approved ECA. To apply for a certificate, select one of the approved ECA vendors and complete the registration. When applying, personnel will be required to verify their identity. If a new ECA is required, please contact the ECA vendor as soon as possible. The length of acquiring an ECA depends on the vendor approval. **NOTE: A Medium Assurance certificate is the type of certificate required.**

The offeror must also be registered on the DITCO Solicitations and Uploads (formerly DCOP) web site, at https://www.ditco.disa.mil/vendors/. If the offeror has an existing account (i.e., registered with DITCO for a prior solicitation) it is not necessary to re-register. The offeror may use that existing account to upload this proposal. If the offeror is required to register on the DITCO web site, choose the option for "The solicitation requires vendor registrations for eligibility" during the registration process. The offeror will then be prompted to enter the solicitation number. The solicitation number entered at this point is only used to help DITCO prioritize the order in which to review and approve the registration requests. Upon completion of the on-line registration process, a DITCO representative will review and approve the registration request before the offeror will be given access to the protected areas of the web site. As soon as the registration has been approved, an email will be sent to the email address of the person who registered. The email will contain a user id and password that will be needed when uploading proposals. The approval of the registration request usually takes one business day. This registration process allows DITCO to precisely track when proposals are uploaded (or attempted to be uploaded). Offerors are strongly encouraged to register a minimum of two weeks prior to uploading a proposal. Offerors should also attempt to upload their proposal as early as possible to ensure no problems arise at the last minute. A detailed guide for utilizing the website is located on the login page also being posted on FedBizOpps with the solicitation package, titled “DITCO Solicitations and Uploads – Vendors.” If there are any problems, contact the DITCO Customer Service Center at (618) 229-9333.

b. All proposal volumes shall be submitted in Adobe Acrobat, Portable Document Format (PDF), Version 11.0.16 (or previous versions that are completely compatible); except the CSC II Pricing Template, which shall be submitted in MS Excel 2010. Note: There shall be no page markings with restrictive legend prohibiting the copying and pasting of text for Government use specific to this acquisition. Also, no scanned images are permitted with the exception of the signed SF33 cover page (Section A), Sections I and K of the solicitation, and other documents originating from third parties as verification or certification required by the RFP (e.g. acceptable accounting system verification). The government must be able to copy text.

c. Submit each volume as a separate electronic .zip file with the volume number and the name of the volume from Table L.1. Each individual file within the zip file must be autonomous and complete. Then zip all volumes into a single zip file using the offeror’s legal business name and CAGE code as the file name.

d. Virus Check. Offerors shall perform a virus check prior to proposal submittal and certify they have done so in the proposal’s Cover Page.

e. Use of the software and procedures described in this part will reduce the amount of time and effort needed by the Government to receive and install proposals into an electronic evaluation system and will help to ensure that proposals are suitable for reading electronically. Information regarding electronic products listed herein should not be construed as Government endorsement for such products.

f. Due Date/Time. The time specified on the SF-33, Block 9, is in Central Standard Time (CST). Any proposal, modification, or revision that is received at the DITCO Solicitations and Uploads web site specified in Section L2.9 after the exact time specified for receipt of proposals in Block 9 is “late” and will be handled in accordance with FAR 15.208(b) and subparagraphs thereto.

g. The offeror’s proposal submission will be considered complete when all volumes have been received. Partial proposals will be considered late.

h. The offeror shall prepare a “readme” file, included in Volume I, which describes the organization and layout of the files in its electronic submission. The file shall describe the names of the .zip files and the names of each file included therein.

i. Efforts by the Government to clarify or expedite installation of electronic proposal submissions, in accordance with FAR 15.207(c), will not be considered discussions.

L.2.10 Use of Software Tool. The Government will access the softcopy versions of the offeror’s proposal using an automated source selection documentation tool.

L.2.11 Classified Information. Offerors shall not submit classified information.

L.2.12 Acceptance of Proposals. The Government reserves the following rights:

a. To consider as acceptable only those proposals that are submitted in accordance with all technical requirements stated or referenced in the solicitation, and that demonstrate an understanding of and the ability to perform the Government’s requirements.

b. To reject as unacceptable those proposals that delete or alter technical requirements of the solicitation or include terms, conditions, or assumptions that caveat or limit performance.

L.3.0 Volume I – Executive Summary.

a. In the Cover Page, the offeror shall provide the following information:

i. The offeror’s firm name.

ii. The solicitation name and number.

iii. The name, address, electronic address and telephone and facsimile numbers of the offeror.

iv. A statement specifying agreement with all terms, conditions, and provisions included in the solicitation and agreement to furnish any or all items upon which prices are offered at the price set forth in the schedule.

v. Names, titles, electronic addresses and telephone and facsimile numbers of persons authorized to negotiate on the offeror’s behalf with the Government in connection with this solicitation.

vi. Name, title, and signature of person authorized to sign the proposal.

vii. Proposals signed by an agent shall be accompanied by evidence of that agent’s authority, unless that evidence has been previously furnished to the issuing office.

viii. A generic company email address shall be provided for this solicitation and all CSC II correspondence or the email addresses of a maximum of two points of contact.

ix. Provide the offeror’s CAGE code; DUNS code; TIN; and business size (large or small) and type(s) of small business, if applicable.

x. Confirmation offeror’s proposal is valid for a minimum of 365 days from the proposal due date.

xi. Confirmation of virus check.

b. Readme file as described in Section L2.9.h.

c. Table of Contents of the entire proposal to include Lists of Tables, Figures, and/or Drawings.

d. Glossary of Abbreviations and Acronyms

L.4.0 Volume II - Technical/Management Approach

The PWS provides the Government’s overall requirements for the duration of the CSC II contract. Offerors shall submit their Technical/Management Approach as Volume II of the proposal in response to the Technical/Management Factor found in Sections M2.1, as applicable.

L.4.1 General. The Technical/Management Volume should be specific and complete. Responses will be evaluated against the technical/management subfactors defined in Section M, Evaluation Factors for Award. Using the instructions provided below, provide as specifically as possible the actual methodology used for accomplishing/satisfying these subfactors. Do not merely reiterate the objectives or reformulate the requirements specified in the solicitation.

L.4.2 Content and Organization (Volume II). Please construct and present responses according to the following:

Volume II

- Compliance Requirements

- Technical/Management - Factor 1

Subfactor 1: Physical Network Solutions

Subfactor 2: Virtual Network Solutions

Subfactor 3: Service Delivery: Design Support

Subfactor 4: Service Delivery: Management

L.4.2.1 Compliance Requirements

All proposals will initially be evaluated to determine whether their proposals are acceptable in meeting the following two compliance requirements (see approved Brand Name J&A for justification of CISCO brand, included as Attachment L-4). For each of the compliance requirements, criteria are provided that each offeror shall meet in order to be determined to be acceptable. Acceptable/unacceptable criteria are provided in Table M.1.

Include the following table in the Technical/Management Approach to acknowledge that the proposal meets the following requirements and indicate the section of the proposal where the requirement is addressed and meets the requirement.

Compliance Requirements

Volume, Section and Page Reference

a. Communications capacity shall deliver switching infrastructure that supports a CISCO Nexus fabric environment as identified in PWS Appendix 5-1, Section 6, Item 6.6 and 6.7and Appendix 5.2, Section 5, Item 5.1.

b. Written proof of existing CISCO Gold Certified Partnership agreement between offeror and CISCO as stated in PWS section 6.10.

L.4.2.2 Technical/Management (Evaluation Factor 1)

In the technical/management volume, address the proposed approach to meeting or exceeding the minimum performance or capability requirements of the following technical/management subfactors. Offerors should discuss how their solution will introduce new technology during the life of the contract.

L.4.2.3 Proof of Concept.

If a Proof of Concept demonstration is required, ALL offerors in the competitive range will be required to demonstrate their proposed solution to members of the SSEB Technical/Management Team at the Offeror's own demonstration location and at the offeror's own expense.