170109_BAA_Questions_-_responses_FINAL.pdf

Question DTRA Response

1. The BAA Addendum states that “Expert-Driven, Focused” methodologies are already well-understood. Will DTRA make available a list of the methods that it has already tested or evaluated for use in prior technology forecasting efforts?

Such methods include, but are not limited to:

interviews, expert dialogues, causal layered analysis, Delphi, gaming, modelling and simulation, roadmaps, and scenarios-based analysis.

2. Will DTRA provide examples of (non-classified) outputs from existing methodologies already in use at DTRA?

DTRA operates an Information Analysis Center identified as DTRIAC (Defense Threat Reduction Information Analysis Center). The Scientific and Technical Information Archival and Retrieval System (STARS) is DTRA’s strategic data preservation and knowledge management information system. STARS is an example of a tool used for collecting and preserving past, present, and future data and knowledge generated across all DTRA mission areas.

3. Will DTRA accept discovery approaches that are dependent on methodologies that require sustained, recurring costs (e.g., methods that use subscriptions to proprietary databases that require an annual subscription fee)?

Yes. Within an offeror’s proposal, such recurring costs to sustain access shall need to be provided.

4. If an offerer proposes a discovery approach that can integrate a methodology that is provided by an existing service (e.g., technology forecasting reports produced by a market research firm), will the offerer need to (a) have a formal agreement with that existing service provider to include it in the proposed approach, and (b) include the cost of that service in its proposed budget?

(a) No, an existing formal agreement is not necessary for proposing an approach;

(b) Yes, an offeror should include any costs associated with the integration of an existing methodology provided by a service if such is part of the offeror’s proposal. These may include the costs for licensing and sustainment agreements.

5. Will DTRA accept biosketches to be included as part of Volume III Supplemental Information?

Offerors are encouraged to follow the guidance contained in HDTRA1-17-S-0002 regarding Vol III – Supplemental Information.

6. Will DTRA accept CPARS reports for current projects within the last five years?

CPARS/PPIRS data is not required with the formal proposal. However, under Attachment 8, Proposal Evaluation section, the Government reserves the right to perform responsibility checks to include past performance where PPIRS information may be reviewed. Offerors are encouraged to follow the format and guidance contained in BAA HDTRA1-17-S- 0002.

Questions and Answers to the "Emerging and Disruptive Technology Discovery" Addendum of 12/1/16

7. To the extent that a discovery approach is dependent on software or a particular computer system, is there any restriction on the software language or the technology stack used in that approach?

No restrictions other than those already noted in the BAA and Addendum (e.g., 3.1.: “Integrated discovery approaches should: (1) support a process for searching, culling, collecting, and curating the various input streams from each methodology; (2) translate the data into usable information; and (3) capture the outputs for later analysis and synthesis” and 3.5.: “Proposed discovery approaches should therefore use methodologies that can be adapted to a CWMD-related purpose, and should be compatible with operations in both unclassified and classified domains”). Offerors should note that DTRA principally utilizes MicroSoft Windows-compatible systems. As such, systems should be expected to plug and play in that environment.

8. Do the relevant Technical Proposal formatting instructions also apply to the 5-page white paper? Specifically from BAA Attachment 4 – “A page is defined as 8½ x 11 inches, single spaced, with one-inch margins in type not smaller than Times New Roman, 12 point font.”

No, the specifications for the technical proposal are not applicable to the optional white paper. The white paper may be provided in the offeror’s preferred format.

9. Reference BAA para 3.8.5 – “Failure to have an adequate accounting system will preclude the Offerer from receiving a cost-type contract and instead will require a non-cost reimbursable award, e.g. a firm-fixed price contract, etc., if appropriate.” Will DTRA consider awarding a non-cost reimbursable contract for the Emerging and Disrupting Technology Discover Initiative.

Yes, in accordance with Section 3.8.5 of the HDTRA1- 17-S-0002 BAA, DTRA would consider a non-cost reimbursable contract.