Attach_1_SLS_PWS_rev1_dated_11_12_25.pdf

UNCLASSIFIED

NATIONAL GEOSPATIAL-INTELLIGENCE AGENCY

Performance Work Statement (PWS) Sign Language Services (SLS)

12 November 2025 revision 1

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Table of Contents

1 BACKGROUND AND SCOPE

1.1 BACKGROUND

1.2 SCOPE

2 SPECIFIC TASKS

2.1 SIGN LANGUAGE SERVICE PERFORMANCE REQUIREMENTS

2.2 PLACE OF PERFORMANCE

2.3 COMMUNICATION ACCESS REAL-TIME TRANSLATION (CART) REQUIREMENTS

2.4 UNCLASSIFIED TRAININGS/EVENTS

3 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

3.1 STAFFING AND CONTRACTOR PERSONNEL

3.2 QUALITY ASSURANCE SURVEILLANCE PLAN

3.3 QUALITY CONTROL

3.4 POST AWARD CONFERENCE/PERIODIC PROGRESS MEETINGS

3.5 TRANSITION PLAN

3.6 OFF-SITE PERFORMANCE

3.7 TRAVEL

3.8 ORGANIZATIONAL CONFLICT OF INTEREST

3.9 NON-DISCLOSURE AGREEMENTS (NDA)

3.10 NON-PERSONAL SERVICES

3.11 GOVERNMENT FURNISHED ITEMS AND SERVICES

3.12 SECURITY REQUIREMENTS

3.13 MANDATORY TRAINING

3.14 NORMAL HOURS OF OPERATION

4 REFERENCES

5 APPENDICES

APPENDIX 1: PROPOSED NGA WASHINGTON DOS SHIFT SCHEDULE

APPENDIX 2: PROPOSED NGA ST LOUIS DOS S H I F T SCHEDULE

APPENDIX 3: PERFORMANCE REQUIREMENTS SUMMARY (PRS)

APPENDIX 4: CONTRACT DELIVERABLE REQUIREMENTS LIST (CDRL)

APPENDIX 5: ACRONYM LIST

PWS Change History Matrix

Revision

Change Summary Date

Paragraph revisions (highlighted in yellow) include administrative revisions (space, grammar, punctuation) and language revisions for clarity include: 1.1, 1.2., 2.1. ,2.2, 2.4, 3.1, 3.4 ,3.5, 3.6, 3.7, 3.14, 3.15, Appendix 1-5

10/21/2025

1 . BACKGROUND AND SCOPE

1.1 BACKGROUND

National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA) has a requirement for Top Secret, Sensitive Compartmented Information (TS//SCI) clearance contractors qualified in providing sign language interpreting services. These services include American Sign Language (ASL)/ English interpreting, Contact Sign Language (CSL)/Pidgin Signed English (PSE)/ English transliterating, tactile/close vision interpreting and oral transliterating. NGA also has a requirement for Communication Access Real-Time Translation (CART) services on a case-by-case basis. These services are required to ensure equal linguistic access for all NGA employees, visitors, and applicants.

The NGA is the nation's primary source of geospatial intelligence (GEOINT) for the Department of Defense (DoD) and the United States (US) Intelligence Community (IC). As a DOD combat support agency and a member of the IC, NGA provides GEOINT, in support of U.S. national security and defense, as well as disaster relief. GEOINT is the exploitation and analysis of imagery and geospatial information that describes, assesses, and visually depicts physical features and geographically referenced activities on the Earth.

The NGA Office of Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) ensures that NGA’s Deaf and Hard of Hearing (DHH) employees, applicants, and others conducting official business with the agency, have equal access to the terms, conditions, benefits, and privileges of employment, or for individuals doing business with the Government by facilitating effective communication with others in the performance of their responsibilities and duties.

EEO provides subject matter experts from the Interpreting Services Team (IST) to be assigned as the Contracting Officer Representative (COR), Alternate Contracting Officer Representative, (ACOR), Government Program Manager (GPM), and Technical Monitor(s) (TM). Government (GOV) interpreters have the responsibility of maintaining the daily interpreting requirements for all Government and contract Sign Language Interpreters (CSLI)(s), as well as determining program requirements.

Authority for this contract is contained in the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended, in Title V, Sections 501 which provides for reasonable accommodations for employees with a disability, and in Title V, Section 504, which provides that no individual with a disability shall, solely because of the disability, be excluded from participation in or be denied the benefits of, any federal program or program receiving federal financial assistance.

1.2 SCOPE

The Government intends to obtain Sign Language Services Support. The Contractor shall provide all the TS//SCI personnel and services needed to perform the work set forth in this Performance Work Statement (PWS). The contractor shall provide a workforce of CSLIs for uninterrupted performance in fulfillment of a Daily On-Site (DOS) work shift or Intermittent (INT) work shift schedule throughout the duration of this contract. See DOS Work Shift Schedules in Appendix one (1) & two (2). The contractor shall provide CSLI(s) to support, as requested, for Deployment and Temporary Duty (TDY) assignments within the Contiguous United States (CONUS) and Outside the Contiguous United States (OCONUS). Unclassified Communication Access Real-Time Translation (CART) services shall be required on a case-by-case basis.

2 SPECIFIC TASKS

2.1 SIGN LANGUAGE SERVICE PERFORMANCE

REQUIREMENTS

1. The contractor support shall consist of assigned CSLI to various DOS shifts, as well as remote and/or hybrid work shifts. The Government will request INT CSLI as needed for surge workforce coverage. The contractor shall be well-versed with Deaf culture and various modes of sign language communication and sign language interpreting techniques as follows:

American Sign Language/ English interpreting

Contact Sign Language/Pidgin Signed English/ English transliterating

Fingerspelling

Spoken/Written English

Tactile/close vision interpreting and oral transliterating

2. CSLI(s) possess and demonstrate the ability to analyze and match which communication modes the DHH consumer is using or needs.

3. CSLI(s)shall be prepared, possess and demonstrate the ability to interpret in dynamic and potentially unpredictable environments, which may include high stakes, high stress, and emotional situations.

4. The Government may assign one (1) CSLI to one and a half (1.5) hours or less interpretation task; however, each assignment will be assessed on a case-by-case basis.

Two (2) or more CSLI(s) may be assigned as follows:

Assignment exceeding one and a half (1.5) continuous hours of interpreting.

Assignment where the DHH person has a prominent role in the scheduled activity and/or there are several DHH participants.

Assignment where more than one mode of communication is preferred by the DHH participants.

Assignment where the subject matter being presented or discussed is extremely technical, complex, or difficult for a layperson to understand.

Assignment involving a panel discussion or large group meetings of any length.

5. All CSLI(s) shall provide spoken language to signed language and signed language to spoken language interpretations/transliterations in a variety of settings. Standard assignments at NGA may include, but are not limited to meetings, trainings, mentoring assignments, job shadowing assignments, platform events, live streamed and recorded events, teleconferences, interviews, benefits of employment, offsites, Video- Teleconferences (VTCs), and Video Remote Interpreting (VRI).

6. The contractor shall maintain a stable workforce while minimizing turnover, maintaining the same level of expertise and managing their personnel in such a way as to minimize the impact of any turnover and/or disruption to the customer and/or mission.

7. The contractor shall ensure all CSLI(s) have complete and accurate job information prior to the assignment day, with the understanding that schedules are subject to change with minimal to no notice. Government staff will provide access to a designated shared location for the purposes of CSLI(s) collecting, populating, and classifying preparation materials.

8. CSLI(s) shall be prepared for dynamic schedule or location changes during their assigned duty hours to satisfy NGA interpreting requirements. If the communication mode of a contract CSLI and consumers do not match, limiting the scheduling options for that contract CSLI, NGA reserves the right to require the contractor to replace the CSLI within two weeks of notification. This is determined through feedback collected in quarterly meetings or case-by-case as reported, from DHH customers, hearing customers, SLI feedback, and Government observations.

9. CSLI(s) shall prepare for assignments by referencing the Government-designated, CSLI and GOV SLI populated, shared documentation and researching specific information on NGA internal networks.

10. CSLI(s) may interpret for non-NGA DHH employees who are visiting/working with NGA on official business, on occasion, should mission require it.

11. Immediate notification to the NGA’s IST is required when any CSLI(s) DOS or INT CLI(s) is unable to work. The contractor shall provide an alternate CSLI when scheduled CSLI(s) are unable to work their scheduled shift and shall accurately adjust the invoice to reflect the absence.

2.2 PLACE OF PERFORMANCE

1. DOS CSLI(s) and INT CSLI(s) shall support NGA employees at NGA Washington

(Springfield, VA), NGA St Louis (St Louis and Arnold, MO), NGA Wright-Patterson

(Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, OH), and remote locations, to include Contiguous United States (CONUS) and Outside the Contiguous United States (OCONUS).

2. Other locations could include other government facilities, contractor facilities, or any location required for official business. Assignments may occur in person, virtually, or a hybrid approach. The contractor shall be prepared to change locations of services from virtual to in person or vice versa with minimal prior notice, at no additional charge to the Government. The contractor shall maintain the following staffing levels throughout the contract period of performance at all of the following NGA core locations:

NGA Washington

The contractor shall maintain a minimum pool of twenty-four (24) CSLI(s) with Top Secret, Sensitive Compartmented Information (TS//SCI) clearance to be available at any given time, throughout the contract base and potential option years. Two (2) DOS CSLI, in addition to (1) Coordinator, shall be consistently assigned to NGA, assigned to support NGA, at least three (3) days per week. The CSLI(s) shall meet the additional INT CSLI shift requirements outlined in Appendix 1.

NGA St Louis

The contractor shall maintain a minimum pool of thirteen (13) CSLI(s) with TS//SCI clearance effective throughout the contract base year and potential option years. Two (2) DOS CSLI(s), in addition to a contract coordinator, shall be consistently assigned to support NGA, at least three (3) days per week. The contractor’s CSLI shall meet the additional INT CSLI shift requirements outlined in Appendix 2. For the purpose of this document, NGA St. Louis encompasses NGA Arnold.

NGA Wright-Patterson

The contractor shall have a minimum of two (2) INT CSLIs with TS//SCI clearance effective upon contract award and nominate 1 additional INT CSLI for TS//SCI clearance processing within 30-days of contract award.

2.3 COMMUNICATION ACCESS REAL-TIME TRANSLATION

(CART) REQUIREMENTS

1. CART is a service that provides real-time, live captioning for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing.

2. CART services will be requested, by the Government, for unclassified events only on an intermittent basis. The Government estimated the following levels of CART services.

NGA Washington CART - 75 hours per year NGA St Louis CART - 25 hours per year

3. For unclassified requests, the contractor CART writers shall provide their own CART equipment.

4. All CART writers shall be certified by the National Court Reporters’ Association or possess an equivalent certification.

5. The contractor shall work with the COR//ACOR/GPM, NGA’s Office of Chief Information Officer and Office of Security to obtain appropriate approvals and paperwork for CART writers and equipment to be allowed in NGA’s secure facilities.

6. The contractor shall provide the COR/ACOR/GPM an unedited draft of all transcribed unclassified events no later than 2 full business days after the conclusion of the event Contract Data Requirement List (CDRL 0006).

7. CSLI(s) are required to act as an escort for the CART writers. If no CSLI is available, the DHH employee, or a designated NGA Government point of contact (POC) will escort.

8. The contractor shall submit Visitor Authorization Request (VAR) for CART Writers without NGA badges to NGA’s Workforce Support Center (WSC). This shall be completed at least 48 hours in advance of the CART writer’s arrival. Time to park and access the facility shall not be billable.

2.4 UNCLASSIFIED TRAININGS/EVENTS

1. If there is an unclassified training, event, or other interpreting request that cannot be covered by the cleared CSLI(s), uncleared CSLI shall be used. This will be done on an ad-hoc basis, subject to COR/ACOR/GPM or designated authority’s written pre-approval.

2. If the INT CSLI requires an escort in the facilities, the team contract CSLI shall act as the escort if they have a TS//SCI clearance. If the team CSLI not have a security clearance, the contract Coordinator or another designated NGA Government POC shall escort.

3. The contractor shall submit Visitor Authorization Request (VAR) for INT CSLI(s) without NGA badges to NGA’s Workforce Support Center WSC. This shall be completed at least 48 hours in advance of the INT CSLI(s)’ arrival. Time to park and access the facility shall not be billable.

3 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

3.1 STAFFING AND CONTRACTOR PERSONNEL

1. The contractor shall provide fully qualified and cleared personnel to satisfy the conditions of this PWS. The contractor is responsible for ensuring all personnel performing work under this contract possess and maintain current certifications as required within the PWS during the execution of this contract. The contractor shall not be reimbursed for obtaining or maintaining certifications. Contractor’s personnel shall stay compliant with all NGA mandatory training. All CSLI(s) are expected to be professional, and able to work in a fast-paced team.

2. The contractor shall ensure all CSLI(s) comply with all local, state, and federal ordinances, statutes, and regulations regarding personal safety in work areas. The contractor is responsible for the costs associated with the safety compliance program and will not be reimbursed for those costs.

3. Professional/business attire is expected of all CSLI(s) unless otherwise directed by the

Government for specific events.

4. All contractor personnel shall adhere to the National Association of the Deaf-Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (NAD-RID) Code of Professional Conduct (CPC).

3.1.1 CONTRACTOR KEY PERSONNEL

1. CONTRACTOR PROGRAM MANAGER (CPM)

A. CPM shall be responsible for overseeing the execution, and performance of contract SLI services provided to the Government.

B. The CPM shall have the following program management responsibilities:

Oversee the entire contract lifecycle for interpreting services, from award to execution, monitoring, and potential option years.

Ensure that all interpreting services comply with contract requirements.

In partnership with the GPM - develop, implement, and refine systems and protocols to ensure smooth project implementation and consistent, high-quality service delivery.

Monitor staffing performance and analyze budget expenditures and burn rates

Participate in monthly progress meetings at a time stipulated by the

Government, which will be scheduled after contract award kick-off meeting.

C. In addition, the CPM shall have the following other responsibilities:

1) Resource Management

Maintain an accurate and up-to-date database of CSLI staff.

Monthly contract performance assessment data and trend analysis.

Project an outlook of resources for upcoming months.

2) Quality Control and Assurance

Regularly monitor and evaluate the performance of CSLI to ensure adherence to professional standards and best practices.

Address and resolve service issues, including Government feedback and interpreting concerns.

Monitor CSLI’s NGA knowledge base for interpreters, offering sources to refresh skills and ensure alignment with program standards.

3) Customer Relations

Serve as the primary point of contact for the contractor to the NGA, addressing programmatic needs, resolving issues, and ensuring satisfaction.

Appoint and delegate liaison responsibilities to one (1) CSLI (or another contractor personnel), to each NGA Washington and NGA St. Louis location, to coordinate, vet and share preparation materials collected by CSLI staff in coordination with a government-appointed POC. The Government POC will populate the shared information in a government designated location on the classified domain for all SLIs to use.

Meet (at least quarterly) with CPM/COR/ACOR/GPM to discuss matters related to the performance of the contractor. CPM shall ensure CSLI coordinators attend quarterly meetings included, as determined by the meeting agenda.

Act as a liaison between the Government, interpreters, and internal teams to facilitate clear and timely communication.

Provide as needed reports and briefings on CSLI performance to

CPM/COR/ACOR/GPM.

Provide recommendations for improved efficiency and/or effectiveness.

Notify and seek COR/ACOR approval prior to the CPM or company owner’s NGA onsite visit.

D. REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

1) Shall have a minimum of five (5) years paid professional experience in program management and provision of sign language interpreting services.

E. DESIRED QUALIFICATION:

1) Have a minimum of 7 years previous experience in program management and provision of sign language interpreting services.

2) Have a minimum of a master’s degree in interpreting related field or program management.

2. PRIMARY OR ALTERNATE COORDINATOR(S)

A. The contractor shall designate and schedule four (4) DOS Primary or Alternate CSLI Coordinator(s) to provide daily support of all DOS CSLI(s) at each respective location, as follows:

1) One (1) Primary and one (1) Alternate DOS CSLI(s) coordinator – NGA

Washington

2) One (1) Primary and one (1) Alternate DOS CSLI(s) coordinator – NGA St.

Louis

B. Primary or Alternate CSLI(s) Coordinator(s) may be directed to another location by the Government, and shall:

1) Be responsible to ensure that all CSLI(s)are engaged in professional activities during extended non-interpreting time (2 hours or more of scheduled non-interpreting time). Examples of activities can include, but are not limited to:

team interpreting opportunities, assignment observation opportunities, class audit opportunities, online resources/training, and updating the Government-designated contractor-populated preparation materials on classified and unclassified domains.

2) Ensure that CSLI(s) use of social media is kept to a minimum; excessive use of the computer for non-interpreting related activity can result in disabling of account or dismissal of the CSLI(s) from the contract.

3) Serve as alternate scheduler as required by the Government.

4) Refer all interpreting and non-interpreting customer service requests (e.g., availability of CSLI(s), reasonable accommodation, space, accesses) to appropriate EEO Government staff.

5) Provide a monthly roster of DOS and INT CSLI(s) positions by the 15th day of each month in a calendar format. The contractor shall provide the Government timely updates to the monthly roster in the agreed upon format.

6) Acts as liaison between the Government and the contractor for all scheduling needs. Shall be highly adaptable and responsive to short notice requests, which may include contact outside normal business hours for last minute assignment changes or scheduling needs.

7) Other responsibilities include, but are not limited to, accepting requests for

INT CSLI(s) or coordinating scheduling changes based on needs at that location, orienting new contract CSLI(s) to NGA, gathering preparation material, providing schedules to CSLI(s), coordinating offsite assignments, submitting visit requests to the Workforce Support Center (WSC) for upcoming site visits (passing clearances), submitting uncleared visitor requests, providing temporary parking passes to CSLI(s), and supporting an overall collaborative work environment for CSLI(s).

C. REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

1) Shall have a minimum of 2 years previous experience coordinating sign language interpreting services.

2) Shall have a minimum of an associate’s degree in an interpreting related field or have a minimum of five (5) years paid professional experience as an interpreter.

3) Certifications

a. Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID) certification if based in NGA Washington.

b. Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID) certification; or Missouri Interpreter Certification System (MICS), Master or Advanced level certification, in lieu of RID certification if based in NGA St Louis.

4) CSLI Coordinator (s) based in NGA St Louis shall hold a valid Missouri sign language interpreter license.

D. DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

1. Have a minimum of 4 years previous experience coordinating sign language interpreting services.

2. Have a bachelor’s degree or higher.

3.1.2 CONTRACTOR NON-KEY PERSONNEL

1 DAILY ON-SITE (DOS) CSLI(S)

A. The contractor shall provide DOS CSLI services for a 49-week year as outlined in Appendix 1 & 2.

B. All CSLI(s)shall complete read-ons for special accesses as required/needed for their assignment to support the mission needs. The DD254 provides specific security requirements.

C. DOS CSLI(s)shall continually monitor the scheduling system and Outlook to track assignments throughout the day for changes to the schedule. As such, they shall also be reachable on both domains for any schedule updates via email, instant messaging, or by phone when not on an assignment for ad hoc assignments or phone calls. Due to a dynamic schedule, last minute assignments may be assigned, by the Government, at any time within a scheduled shift.

D. If a CSLI is not scheduled for an assignment at the start of their scheduled shift, they shall report to the Sign Language Interpreter Operations Center (SLIOC) or other designated location and check in with IST.

E. CSLI(s) shall notify the interpreting office when a deviation from their schedules occurs within fifteen (15) minutes (e.g., DHH does not show up to assignment, cancellation upon arrival, CSLI is relieved early from assignment, or if the CSLI will arrive late to their assignment for any reason).

F. If the CSLI intends to be away from their workstation for more than fifteen (15) minutes, they shall inform IST.

2 DEDICATED CSLI(s)

A. Dedicated CSLI(s) is the title given to interpreters who are assigned to a pool of interpreters working primarily with 1 DHH NGA employee. There shall be identified pools of CSLI(s) for each dedicated CSLI position; size of pool and knowledge requirements will be determined by the Government. Dedicated CSLIs shall:

Become familiar with assigned DHH employee, work procedures, co-workers, and other office requirements.

Submit team interpreting requests to IST via the request form and keep the team abreast of schedule changes.

Coordinate with IST and their assigned consumers to determine the best schedule for services.

Be consistently scheduled throughout the week in order to fully acclimate and associate themselves with the business practices of the office they are supporting.

Collaborate with the DOS CSLI(s) coordinator to develop and ensure preparation material in shared locations on both domains are readily available for team CSLI(s) and orient team CSLI(s) to office requirements for their assigned DHH employees.

Be a part of the main pool of CSLI(s) if interpreting services for the regularly assigned consumer/office are not required (e.g.: employee on leave) and follow the requirements of DOS CSLI(s), as set forth in Section 3.1.2, number 1.

3. INTERMITTENT CSLI(s)

A. INT CSLI is the title given to CSLI(s) who are scheduled as surge support on ad hoc basis as requested by NGA.

B. The Government will request INT CSLI services in addition to regularly scheduled DOS CSLI(s), as needed. The contractor shall fill INT CSLI requests submitted in accordance with the following notice:

C. The contractor shall satisfy a minimum of 95% of all INT CSLI requests submitted with more than five (5) full business days’ notice.

D. The contractor shall satisfy a minimum of 90% of all INT CSLI requests submitted with five (5) or less full business days’ notice.

E. The contractor shall provide a monthly report to the Government (CDRL 0002) with the intermittent assignment dates and the dates requested along with the invoice.

F. The Government estimates the following annual hours of intermittent services:

1) NGA Washington (06:00-18:00): 5,500 hours per year

2) NGA Washington (18:00-06:00; weekends, and holidays): 2,500 hours per year

3) NGA St Louis (06:00-18:00): 3,000 hours per year

4) NGA St Louis (18:00-06:00; weekends, and holidays): 250 hours per year

5) NGA Wright-Patterson: 1,450 hours per year

6) OCONUS: 250 hours per year

7) INT CSLI(s) location may be NGA locations, remote, offsite, or hybrid.

G. A two-hour minimum cost will be applied to stand alone routine INT CSLI requests. If an intermittent INT CSLI(s) request is submitted to extend the day of a DOS CSLI, this will not be subject to a two-hour minimum. A two-hour minimum does not apply when taking mandatory trainings.

H. The contractor shall provide weekly updates to the Government in the agreed upon format regarding the status of all INT CSLI requests and shall send a weekly copy of an updated calendar for each both NGA St. Louis and NGA Washington, and any other applicable locations (CDRL 0003).

I. The Government will submit shift cancellations of INT CSLI services to the contractor at least forty-eight 48 calendar hours over 2 calendar days in advance. The Government will only be billed for services rendered and not for services cancelled in accordance with this time frame.

J. The Government reserves the right to reassign INT CSLI(s) to other NGA assignments and locations. If INT CSLI(s) are at NGA Washington or NGA St. Louis, they shall follow all DOS CSLI requirements in section 3.1.2 of this PWS.

K. The contractor shall maintain a minimum roster of TS//SCI cleared SLI(s) per Section

3.1 of this PWS; all DOS CSLI, dedicated and most INT CSLI requests are required to be TS//SCI cleared. Occasionally, the COR/ACOR/GPM may approve the contractor to send SLI(s) without TS//SCI access, depending on the assignment. The Government will inform the contractor if INT CSLI(s) without TS//SCI clearances are acceptable with the initial request.

L. The contractor shall have one uncleared Certified Deaf Interpreter (CDI) on their roster, which may be requested for specific assignments.

M. INT CSLI requests will be labeled with a numbering system for easy tracking as agreed upon between the IST and the Contractor.

1. REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

A. All non-key CSLI(s) shall have the following required qualifications and certifications:

Shall have an associate’s degree in an interpreting related field or have a minimum of five (5) years paid professional experience as an interpreter.

Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID) certification; or Missouri Interpreter Certification System (MICS), Master or Advanced level certification, in lieu of RID certification if based in NGA St Louis.

CSLI(s) based in NGA St Louis shall hold a valid Missouri sign language interpreter license.

3.2 QUALITY ASSURANCE SURVEILLANCE PLAN

The Government will provide quality assurance in accordance with the Quality Assurance Surveillance Plan (QASP), which will utilize the contractor-proposed Performance Requirements Summary (PRS) within Appendix 3. This plan is primarily focused on the measures and standards against which the Contractor is expected to be evaluated. It defines how the performance standards will be applied, the frequency of surveillance, and the minimum acceptable defect rate(s). When an observation indicates defective performance, the COR/ACOR/GPM will require the Contractor or designated on-site representative to initial the observation to acknowledge the defective performance. The acknowledgement of the observation does not necessarily constitute Contractor concurrence with the observation, only that the Contractor has been made aware of the defective performance.

3.3 QUALITY CONTROL

Quality control is the responsibility of the contractor. The contractor shall be responsible for the delivery of quality services/supplies to the Government. NGA employees will provide the CO or COR/ACOR/GPM with an evaluation of the services rendered, using provided evaluation forms. The Government will provide collected feedback, to the Contractor, CPM, or contract coordinator(s) quarterly, or as needed.

3.3.1 Quality Control Plan (QCP)

1. The Government is committed to a highly interactive relationship between quality control by the Contractor and quality assurance by the Government recipient of services. This relationship shall be achieved through an effective QCP (CDRL 0001) dedicated to ensuring the best possible products and services to end users. The Contractor shall submit an initial written QCP within 10 business days in accordance with this PWS and as outlined in the Deliverables Schedule (Appendix 4).

2. The Contractor shall establish and maintain a QCP to ensure the requirements of this contract are provided as specified by describing the inspection system for the requested services listed in this PWS. The CO/COR will notify the Contractor of acceptance or areas requiring discussion. The QCP shall be finalized in accordance with (IAW) the discussions and submitted not more than 35 business days after contract award. The QCP shall be updated as changes occur. Each update shall be submitted to the COR/ACOR for review and acceptance.

3. The Contractor’s QCP shall demonstrate its prevention-based outlook by meeting the objectives stated in the PWS throughout all areas of performance.

The QCP shall be developed to specify the Contractor’s responsibility for management and quality control actions to meet the terms of the contract. The QCP as a minimum shall address continuous process improvement; procedures for scheduling, conducting and documentation of inspection; discrepancy identification and correction; corrective action procedures to include procedures for addressing Government discovered non-conformances; procedures for root cause analysis to identify the root cause and root cause corrective action to prevent re-occurrence of discrepancies; procedures for trend analysis; and procedures for collecting and addressing customer feedback/complaints.

3.3. 2 Contractor Discrepancy Report Response

1. When the contractor(s)’ performance is unsatisfactory, a Contractor Discrepancy

Report (CDR) will be issued. The contractor shall reply in writing within five (5) business days from the date of receipt of the CDR, giving the reasons for the unsatisfactory performance, corrective action taken, and procedures to preclude recurrence (CDRL 0013). In the event the contractor’s personnel performance continues to be unsatisfactory to the Government, the Contracting Officer (CO) reserves the right to request and receive a satisfactory replacement.

2. Quality Control is the responsibility of the Contractor. The Contractor is responsible for the delivery of quality services/supplies to the Government.

3.4 POST AWARD CONFERENCE/PERIODIC PROGRESS

MEETINGS

The Contractor shall attend any post award conference convened by the contracting activity or contract administration office in accordance with the FAR 42.5. The post award meetings will also be utilized to ensure contractor understands the contract requirements. The CO, COR (and other government personnel) will hold a quarterly progress meet with the Contractor to review the Contractor's performance. At these meetings the CO and COR will apprise the Contractor of how the Government views the Contractor's performance and the Contractor will apprise the Government of problems, if any, being experienced. The contractor shall take appropriate action to resolve outstanding issues. These meetings shall be at no additional cost to the Government.

CPM or designated authority shall submit signed meeting minutes documents to the CO/COR five (5) business days after each meeting (CDRL 0007). The government will acknowledge receipt within 5 business days.

3.5 TRANSITION PLAN

The contractor shall provide a transition plan within 10 days after contract award that describes its approach to hand-off work and associated products from each outgoing contract coordinator to their replacement, who could be the Government staff or a contractor under a different task. The plan shall account for the complete turnover of work in a manner that minimizes disruption to customer operations. The contractor’s program manager shall serve as the transition manager during this phase. The objectives of the plan are to minimize the impacts on continuity of operations, maintain communications, identify key issues and overcome barriers to transition. The contractor is responsible for performing due diligence to ensure that all transition activities are identified, negotiated and completed during the transition. The contractor’s transition plan shall provide details necessary to transition activities during follow-on efforts

(CDRL 0009).

3.5.1 PHASE-IN

1. Kick-Off Meeting

A. The contractor shall schedule the kick-off meeting no later than five (5) full business days after award and shall lead a contract kickoff meeting within ten

(10) business days after contract award. At a minimum, the contractor shall introduce key personnel, team members and staff, and discuss organizational structure and administrative operations pertinent to this requirement. The Kickoff Meeting Agenda is due within five (5) business days after contract award for government review and concurrence (CDRL 0010).

B. The contractor shall address details of overlapping task with the current incumbent to include hand-off of any required documentation. To minimize any decreases in productivity, and to prevent possible negative impact on additional services, the contractor shall ensure that all personnel on-board within the 30-day phase-in period. During that period, the contractor shall become familiar with performance requirements to commence full performance of services on the start of the base period of performance. Contractor personnel shall obtain required IC badges, CACs, all other forms of Government identifications, and all specific Government training during the phase-in period.

3.5.2 PHASE OUT

1. Prior to the completion of this contract, an observation period will occur, during which team management personnel from the incoming contractor may observe operations. This will allow for orderly turnover of facilities, equipment, and records and will help to ensure continuity of services. The outgoing contractor is ultimately responsible for performing full services in accordance with the PWS, during the phase-out period, and shall not defer any requirements for the purpose of avoiding responsibility or of transferring such responsibility to the succeeding contractor. The outgoing contractor shall fully cooperate with the incoming contractor and the Government to prevent interference with their work or duties.

2. To minimize decreases in productivity and prevent possible negative impacts on additional services, the outgoing contractor shall maintain its personnel in an active working status at the Government site(s) during the phase-out period. The outgoing contractor shall transition the workload to the newly selected contractor during the 30-day phase-out period, which will occur at the end of the contract period of performance.

3. The outgoing contractor shall develop a written phase-out plan and effect a smooth and orderly transfer of contract responsibility to the incoming contractor. This plan will be provided to the COR/ACOR/GPM within 30 days before the phase-out period commences. At a minimum, the plan shall fully describe the outgoing contractor’s approach to the following:

Inventories and turn-over of government property and information.

Removal of any contractor property Reconciliation of all property accounts Turn-in of excess property Data and information transfer Clean-up of contractor work areas Security debriefings in accordance with NGA policies and IC directives for incumbent personnel holding security clearances Any other actions required to ensure continuity of government mission and operations

3.5.3. TRANSITION REPORT

The outgoing contractor shall be prepared to transition the workload to the newly selected contractor during the 30-day phase-out period, which will occur at the end of the period of performance of the contractual effort. The contractor shall submit a Transition Report which includes all up-to-date critical information needed to sustain service support before this contract expires. The report shall include all Government owned property, status of deliverables and any other applicable documentation (CDRL 0011).

3.5.4 CLOSEOUT REPORT

1. Upon expiration of this contract, the contractor shall provide to the Government with a close-out report which at a minimum must include status of contract funds and final invoice, disposition of Government Furnished Equipment (GFE)/Government Furnished Property (GFP) if distributed, the names of personnel who worked on this contract and written confirmation that they have been read off in accordance with NGA security policy.

2. At the end of the last option year, the contractor shall provide a Contract Closeout

Report (CDRL 0012) at the timeline directed by the Government.

3.6 OFF-SITE PERFORMANCE

All below sections are applicable to DOS and Intermittent CSLIs.

3.6.1 REMOTE WORK REQUIREMENTS

1. CSLI(s) shall have the technology, space, and capability to support virtual interpreting. NGA will provide the appropriate links to the web-based platform used for each assignment and a government-issued Common Access Card (CAC) reader.

2. When interpreting requests are made, the COR/ACOR/GPM assigns CSLI(s) to either remote locations or onsite. This schedule is subject to change at any time.

3. The contractor shall ensure CSLIs have necessary equipment while working virtually at a remote location: to include two (2) video-capable devices, a solid-colored background, high-speed internet, mobile phone, and headset.

4. CSLI(s) shall not schedule personal appointments during contracted remote time and appropriate childcare arrangements shall be made so not to conflict with contracted time.

5. CSLI(s) on the daily schedule shall be available for last minute assignments and shall watch for computer or phone-based communication (onsite or offsite) for added assignments and messages from the Government.

3.6.2 HYBRID/MULTI-LOCATION REQUIREMENTS

1. DOS and INT CSLI(s) shall be highly adaptable and responsive to short notice requests, CSLI may start their contracted hours at one location and end their shift at another location, including onsite, remote, or offsite. The Government may contact coordinator(s) the night before or morning of an assignment, or mid-shift as requirements emerge. (e.g.: CSLI starts shift at NGA Washington at 0800 and is requested to change location at 1000 for a local assignment at DIA. CSLI will travel to new location during shift time to complete assignment. CSLI may return to NGA Washington to complete shift if assignment has ended or stay for duration of shift if needed at offsite location.)

2. Some CSLI(s) shall be able to physically report for onsite interpreting on any given day, even if already scheduled to work remotely.

3. For CSLIs that are confirmed to work an assignment with a location change, yet within a scheduled shift, and within 50 miles of an NGA core location (NGA Washington, NGA St. Louis, NGA Arnold), travel time from a virtual setting to an in-person or in-person to virtual is included within a work shift at a regular rate and accounted for in the government scheduling process for same day notice to change assignments.

3.6.3 TEMPORARY DUTY ASSIGNMENTS

1. CSLI(s) shall support TDY assignments as requested.

2. NGA may send a request for a TDY estimate in the agreed upon format, to include the anticipated date(s) and location(s). This is not an official request for services.

3. The contractor shall submit an estimated cost to the Government no later than three

(3) full business days upon receipt of the TDY estimate request (CDRL 0004).

4. The estimated cost shall include a breakdown of travel, lodging, per diem, rental car, estimated travel hours, and other allowable costs.

5. If acceptable, the Government will approve the TDY estimate or inform the contractor that services are not required.

6. The Government recognizes that costs may fluctuate; the contractor shall request approval from the government at the time of purchase if prices are more than 10% greater than the estimate.

7. The Government will request the appropriate number of CSLI(s) for a TDY.

While most TDY assignments will require 2 CSLI(s), some requests, due to the nature of the event, will only require 1 CSLI. TDYs may require extended hours of interpreting and on-call status. This may include shiftwork, weekends, and holidays. CSLI(s) shall exercise professional discretion to ensure they take adequate breaks while performing interpreting services.

8. The contractor shall advise the COR/ACOR/GPM as soon as possible if TDYs require additional interpreting hours beyond the previously approved request.

The contractor shall receive approval from the COR/ACOR/GPM before performing any additional hours.

9. As much as possible, the contractor shall match the travel itinerary of the

Government employees required to travel.

10. The Government will provide the itinerary to the contractor.

11. The contractor shall conduct cost comparisons between travel itineraries (Government and contractor) to determine the best value for the Government.

12. Contractor personnel shall be familiar with the information and purposes of the TDY. On-site preparation time is billable if requested in advance by the contractor and approved by the Government’s CO/COR/ACOR/GPM.

3.6.4 DEPLOYMENTS

1. The contractor may receive requests to deploy OCONUS, as necessary. A valid tourist passport is required for CSLI(s) traveling OCONUS.

2. The Government will request INT CSLI(s) for deployments.

3. The Government will send a request for a deployment estimate in the agreed upon format, to include the anticipated date(s) and location(s). This is not an official request for services.

4. Upon receipt of the estimate, the contractor shall submit an estimated cost to the

Government within 15 full business days (CDRL 0005).

5. The estimated cost shall include travel, lodging, per diem, rental car, and other associated costs. In some situations, the Government will provide lodging; the COR/ACOR/GPM will communicate this to the contractor at time of request.

6. The Government will either approve or deny the deployment request.

7. The Government recognizes that costs may fluctuate; the contractor shall advise the Government at the time of proposal if prices are more than 10% greater than the estimate.

8. The contractor shall fulfill some administrative requirements prior to deployment;

the COR/ACOR/GPM will communicate these requirements to the contractor.

9. The Government will reimburse the contractor per Joint Travel Regulations (JTR).

The contractor shall provide all receipts to substantiate travel costs.

10. Travel hours are billed at regular rate, regardless of day of week or time of day.

11. When possible, the contractor shall strive to match the itinerary of the NGA employees required to travel. The Government will request cost comparisons between itineraries to determine the best value for the Government.

12. Most deployment trainings and related requirements will be provided by the

Government. The scheduled CSLI(s) shall satisfy all pre-deployment requirements.

13. The Government will request the appropriate number of CSLI(s) for a deployment.

Most deployments only require 1 CSLI.

14. Deployments may require extended hours of interpreting and on-call status. This may include shiftwork, weekends, and holidays. The basic workday will be established between the NGA Deployment office, the COR/ACOR/GPM, and the contractor.

15. The contractor shall advise the COR/ACOR/GPM as soon as possible if deployments require additional interpreting hours beyond the previously approved request. The contractor shall receive approval from the COR/ACOR/GPM before performing any additional hours.

16. CSLIs can be assigned to high threat posts.

17. In case of unforeseen/emergency situations that require the contractor to return

CONUS, the contractor shall be responsible for any fees incurred by the Government.

18. While on OCONUS deployment, contractors will have access to APO/FPO postal or mail services, as well as shipping and receiving services.

3.7 TRAVEL AND OTHER DIRECT COSTS (ODC)

1. CSLIs may be required to travel both within the Continental United States (CONUS), and Outside CONUS (OCONUS), during the performance. All travel requirements shall be reimbursed at the current per diem rates as published within the Defense Travel Management Office (DTMO) website (https://www.travel.dod.mil/Travel- Transportation-Rates/Per-Diem/Per-Diem-Rate-Lookup/) and in accordance with Joint Travel Regulations (JTR). Travel costs shall only be billed and allowed to the extent that they are determined to be reasonable, allocable, and determined to be allowable in accordance with FAR 31.205-46. The Contractor will submit a travel expense sheet specifying the names of contract CSLI(s), dates, duration, receipts, locations, and associated costs to the COR. All travel shall be pre-approved in writing by the COR.

2. If costs exceed estimate during travel, the contractor shall notify the Government as soon as possible and reimbursement of the excess in costs is not guaranteed without Government prior approval.

3. Local travel is defined as travel performed for official purposes and to locations within 50 miles of NGA core locations (based on online GPS estimate) as determined by the COR. For the purpose of this requirement, travel between NGA Washington and National Security Agency (NSA) shall be considered local travel.

4. ODCs include direct costs required in the performance of the contract, such as other CSLI assignments, registration costs for events, and/or all documentation and preparation for OCONUS travel, as required. All ODCs shall be preapproved by the

COR.

5. A valid tourist passport is required for CSLI(s) traveling OCONUS.

6. Travel hours shall not be billed at a premium rate, regardless of the day of week or time of day.

3.8 ORGANIZATIONAL CONFLICT OF INTEREST

Contractor and subcontractor personnel performing work under this contract may receive or have access to proprietary or source selection information (e.g., cost or pricing information, budget information or analyses, specifications or work statements, etc.), which may create a current or subsequent Organizational Conflict of Interests (OCI), or appearance thereof, as defined in FAR Subpart 9.5. OCS Government personnel will provide added oversight and review to minimize OCIs. The Contractor shall notify the CO immediately whenever it becomes aware that such access or participation may result in any actual or potential OCI and shall promptly submit a plan to the CO to avoid or mitigate any such OCI. The Contractor’s mitigation plan will be determined to be acceptable solely at the discretion of the CO. In the event the CO determines that any such OCI cannot be satisfactorily avoided or mitigated, the CO may affect other remedies as necessary, including prohibiting the Contractor from participation in subsequent contracted requirements that may be affected by the OCI.

3.9 NON-DISCLOSURE AGREEMENTS (NDA)

The Contractor’s personnel are required to maintain active Non-disclosure Agreements in accordance with NARI 5X09.505-4. See attachment 09 for the current NGA NDA FORM 5X52.209-9003. The contractor shall require all employees, prime and subcontractors, sign the attached non-disclosure agreement (NDA) prior to starting work. The purpose of the NDA is to prevent disclosure of sensitive Government information the contractor may be exposed to through performance of this contract. Copies of signed NDAs shall be submitted to the CO and COR (CDRL 0008).

3.10 NON-PERSONAL SERVICES

The Government will neither supervise contractor employees nor control the method by which the contractor performs the required tasks. Under no circumstances shall the Government assign tasks to, or prepare work schedules for, individual contractor employees. The contractor shall be responsible for the management of its employees and shall guard against any actions that are of the nature of personal services or give the perception of personal services. If the contractor believes that any actions constitute, or are perceived to constitute personal services, it shall be the contractor's responsibility to notify the CO immediately.

3.11 GOVERNMENT FURNISHED ITEMS AND SERVICES

Equipment: As necessary, the Government will provide use of the following property to CSLI(s) on-site, as needed: office furniture, office supplies, computers, telephones, voicemail, photocopy machines, CAC readers, and classified videophones. As necessary, NGA will provide CAC readers for external remote use. The use of government-provided property shall be used for NGA business purposes only.

3.12 SECURITY REQUIREMENTS

1. Classified Work Performance Security Requirements

A. NGA may require contractors to have access to additional clearance(s)/access(es) in the performance of their duties. The personnel shall meet the security requirements to obtain approval to these clearance(s)/access(es) when it is determined that they have a mission requirement. NGA will sponsor the security clearance(s) and access(es) for required Sign Language Interpreting Services personnel. The contractor may/will have access to the following types of information but not limited to:

Restricted Data/Formerly Restricted Data (RD/FRD), Critical Nuclear Weapon Design Information (CNWDI), North…