RFI Leadership Development Questions and Answers 2.28.2025.pdf

Number Question Answer

Will instructors be required to have security clearances, or is that only necessary for certain courses?

At this time, due to current return to work policies, it is anticipated that contractors (working in capacities as stipulated by the PWS) working at any DCSA location will require a clearance that conforms to that location's requirement. While it is not anticipated that contractors will require high level clearances, it is anticipated that most will require low to medium level clearances based on location.

Does DCSA anticipate running concurrent training sessions, and if so, how many at a time?

The agency may run sessions singularly or concurrently based on operational priorities.

Training schedules will be determined in partnership with the vendor as far ahead as possible but are also subject to change based on mission need.

What is the expected class size per course type (virtual, blended/hybrid, and in person)?

Class size will be contingent on the type of program and/or topics covered in the course.

Normally, enrollment numbers for courses range between 10 to 30 participants (for both in-person and virtual delivery).

4 How many students are expected to attend each session? Normal class sizes (for most programs) range between 10 to 30 participants.

For in-person and blended/hybrid sessions, would printed or digital materials be preferred?

This will be decided by the Instructional Designers who create the content for the courses. It is expected that some materials will be digital (reading assignments, reference materials, etc.) while some may be more conducive to printed (journals, note -taking guides, etc.)

Is there an anticipated Period of Performance? Evaluation factor (e.g., Best Value or

LPTA)?

The performance period and evaluation factors are not known at this time. We welcome recommendations based on vendor experience.

7 Is it correct to assume that there is not currently an incumbent for this program? Correct, this contract will be entirely new to the agency.

Shall pricing be presented in the form of labor categories, hours, and rates per catalog item?

Providing a detailed pricing breakdown is helpful, but it is not required.

If there was a needs analysis done to determine the catalog will the successful contractor have access to its data to help align catalog content to identified needs?

Yes. HCMO staff will share any pertinent data with the vendor re: data from previous focus groups, surveys, etc.

10 What is the expected or predicted Period of Performance?

The performance period is not known at this time. We welcome recommendations based on vendor experience.

11 After contract Start of Work, what is the expected date of the first seminar launch?

This will be established by HCMO staff in partnership with the vendor once work begins on the design of the program. While some start dates for some courses or programs may be aggressive, the agency will consider a staggered roll out plan to ensure a thoughtful and deliberate approach.

Is there an existing system (such as a learning management system) to handle administrative tasks such as participant registrations, completion rates, Level 1, 2, 3, 4 evaluations, etc.?

While DCSA has several Learning Management Systems in place at the agency, the HCMO Leadership Development Team is currently in the process of acquiring an LMS for internal use. The expectation is that an LMS for the leadership development program will be acquired in conjunctions with the development of the program. The vendor should make contingency plans to operate w/out an LMS if changes occur to the timelines.

Section 3.1: Do “virtual” instruction seminars allow contractor/instructor to be in a location other than Quantico?

Yes. In addition to DCSA's primary hub locations in Quantico, VA, Ft. Meade, MD, and Boyers, PA, the agency has a distributed workforce across the United States (to include territories and some staff serving overseas). Virtual instruction will need to accommodate all geographic locations. Though there will be core vendor staff expected to work in Quantico, the vendor may employ remote staff (as permitted under current return to work policies) to support course delivery.

Section 3.1: Is the requirement for the vendor to provide personnel within commuting distance of Quantico, Virginia for the delivery component only, or inclusive of instructional design as well?

Under current return to work policies, Federal employees and contractors are expected to work in person at their duty stations. The expectation is all key staff identified in the PWS will work within commuting distance of DCSA offices in Quantico, Stafford, or Ft. Meade.

Section 4: “Leadership Seminars” are shown as 24 sessions that are “all GG levels”. Is that one “catch all” seminar for all GGs with 24 sessions, or is it broken out, for example 6 separate GGs with 4 sessions each?

The seminars will be based off of the DoD Leadership Competencies and be available to all GG levels. There are 24 competencies, one seminar per competency.

Section 4: Does “all GG” mean that the seminar content is the same for all participants regardless or GG level, for example Leadership Seminars, Team Engagements, and Immersive Leadership Experience?

Yes, "all GG" means the content should speak to all levels.

Section 4: Does “all GG” levels mean levels 11-15 only, or are there lower levels as well?

We have GG 4-15.

Section 4: Is the strategy to have all seminars in the catalog delivered over the course of one calendar year, and then repeat?

Yes.

Section 4: Are the 24 sessions for “Leadership Seminars” one 1-2 hour seminar repeated 24 times, or 24 different seminars that last 1-2 hours each? The same question for “Team Engagements”.

24 different sessions, based on the DoD Competencies, each 1-2 hours in length.

Section 4: Will “In-person”/”Destination Learning” physical locations be provided by the USG?

We have government training space across the nation that will be used for all training.

Section 4: Is “blended” defined as some combination of virtual and in-person sessions?

Yes.

Section 4: Does “virtual” mean synchronous real-time virtual instruction (live online instructor) as opposed to asynchronous instruction (for example, online pre-work, read-aheads, or Interactive Multimedia Instruction/eLearning)?

It could mean both. This will depend of what the content needs.

Section 4: Is there a student cap to each seminar, thus the possibility of multiple instances of the same seminar within the same time frame?

A student cap for seminars has not been established yet. There is a possibility of the same seminar being given multiple times, it will depend on the need and/or want of the content by the agency/employees.

Section 4: Is there an existing strategy or plan for how the catalog seminars relate to each other in terms of GG level-specific pre-requisites or career mapping? For example, do participants need to take Leadership Seminar prior to Team Engagements? Does the order in Section 4 of the RFI attempt to reflect that?

We are currently working on career mapping and will set pre-requisites. Section 4 reflects a rough draft of the mapping but a more detailed approach is in the works.

Due to the complexity of the RFI is it possible to allow more than 8 pages to respond?

The requirement will be revised to 10 a page limit.

Is this RFI a precursor to a formal solicitation (RFP/RFQ), and if so, what is the anticipated release timeline?

As noted in the RFI disclaimer, the Government is not committing to a formal solicitation at this time.

Will DCSA award a single contract for the entire requirement, or would separate contracts be issued for curriculum development and instruction?

The expectation is for a single contract, but vendors may provide suggestions based on their experience.

Is there an incumbent currently providing these services, or is this a new initiative?

This is a new initiative. Prior to this we have relied on multiple contracts and external vendors. We want to move to in-house content that can be tailored/customized for our employees and map back to the DoD Leadership Competencies.

Are there any existing leadership development programs or frameworks that should be integrated into the new curriculum?

DoD Civilian Leader Development Continuum and DoD Civilian Leader Development Framework

Does DCSA have a preference for specific leadership competencies or instructional methodologies beyond ADDIE?

Please see response to question 29.

Will the government provide any existing content, or is the contractor expected to develop all materials from scratch?

We have some content that can be reviewed and/or edited, but the bulk of the content will need to be developed from scratch.

What level of customization is expected for different leadership levels (GG-12 through GG-15)?

TBD, basic outline provided in section 3.2

Will experiential learning or hands-on components be required, and are there any preferred methods for implementation?

Yes, experiential and hands-on learning will be required for some components. Methods for implementation are open for discussion.

What platform(s) will be used for virtual training, and will the contractor be responsible for LMS hosting and technical support?

We are acquiring Corner Stone for our LMS. Corner Stone will provide technical support while PMs for specific programs will be responsible for other LMS responsibilities.

Could you provide additional guidance on the expected labor categories and the estimated number of personnel needed?

Section 3.2 for personnel, number needed will be determined by vendor in order to complete task.

Are there any security clearance requirements for personnel involved in this contract?

At least a secret clearance.

Is commuting distance to Quantico, VA, mandatory for all personnel, or will remote work be considered?

Remote work is not available at this time.

Will instructors be required to travel beyond Quantico, VA, for in person sessions, and should travel costs be included in pricing?

There may be some travel required depending on the program. For example, the Immersive Leadership Experiences will be held at different locations depending on the content. One possibility would be using the Holocaust Memorial Museum in Washington, D.C. to teach about competencies like influencing, communication, ethical behavior, resilience, etc.

What are the key performance indicators (KPIs) or success metrics that will be used to evaluate curriculum and instruction?

TBD

Will DCSA provide a Learning Management System (LMS) for tracking learner progress, or should the contractor propose a solution?

Yes, Corner Stone.

Are there specific reporting requirements for course evaluations, instructor feedback, and program assessments?

These are currently being developed.

Does DCSA have a budget estimate or funding ceiling for this requirement?

TBD

Should the Rough Order of Magnitude (ROM) pricing include both one-time development costs and ongoing maintenance?

Yes. Vendors are welcome to provide assumptions and a price breakdown.

What contract type is anticipated (Firm Fixed Price, Time & Materials, Cost-Reimbursable)?

There is no expected contract type at this time. The Government welcomes suggestions from vendors on contract type.

Will there be an opportunity for a debriefing after RFI responses are reviewed?

No.

Will the contractor need to adhere to federal cybersecurity standards (e.g., NIST 800-171, CMMC)?

Yes

Are there any regulatory compliance requirements such as ITAR or

HIPAA?

No

Will classified or sensitive information be part of the training, requiring additional security measures?

Basic security clearance should meet requirements.

Does DCSA plan to hold an industry day or pre-solicitation conference before releasing an RFP?

No.

Will there be an opportunity for one-on-one discussions or capability briefings with vendors?

No.

What is the anticipated period of performance and contract duration for this initiative?

The performance period is not known at this time. We welcome recommendations based on vendor experience

52 Will there be a clearance requirement for this contract? Yes

Will there be any key personnel identified? If so, will these key personnel need resumes at the time of submission?

Review page 3 for details.

Is there an estimate of how many iterations of each course within the Leadership Development Catalog for the Period of Performance?

There will be a phases release of courses based on estimated timeline to complete each course.

55 What is the anticipated Period of Performance? See question 51.

56 Where is the anticipated location for performance? Main location will be in Quantico, VA.

57 Is this a new requirement? Yes 58 If this is not a new requirement, who is the incumbent? New requirement

Does DCSA have a current leadership development program the same or similar to the DCSA Leader Development Program described in the PWS?

This is a new initiative.

Does DCSA have existing leadership development courses and/or curricula that it would like the successful contractor to leverage when designing and developing the DCSA Leader Development Program?

See question 59.

Has the Government identified a contract type, such as firm fixed price or time and materials?

See question 44.

Would the Government allow some work on this contract that does not involve in person student and stakeholder interaction, such as program management and curriculum design and development, to be performed at the contractor site?

We expect full interaction with stakeholders, we prefer contractors physically sit in government space but with new "return to work" action, seating is fluid.

Does the Government envision that the contractor will deliver training on-site at locations other than Quantico, VA?

See question 38.

What, if any, level of Facility Clearance will the contractor need when performing this work?

Basic security clearance should meet requirements.

Could the Government provide more information regarding the Period of Performance? For example, given the nature of the work, would the Government consider issuing a multi-year base period plus option years?

Yes, we are willing to consider all options when it comes to PoP. Vendors are welcome to make suggestions based on experience. This RFI is for market research only.

RFI Section 2.2: Background: Could the Government provide artifacts resulting from the Leadership Insights Project, such as reports and findings, that will help potential vendors prepare proposals to best serve DCSA’s needs?

Results from the Leadership Insights Project will be provided to the vendor.

RFI Section 3.2: What We’re Looking For: Could the Government clarify the expected role and responsibilities of the Administrative personnel?

They will assist in any administrative needs for this program to be successful from roster creation in our LMS to assistance with in-person class set-up and any number of things in between.

RFI Section 3.2: What We’re Looking For: Who does the Government envision being Key Personnel on this effort?

Currently laid out in section 3.2. There will be government employees involved such as a PM, Chief, possibly attentional instructors.

RFI Section 3.2: What We’re Looking For: In keeping with best practices for curriculum delivery, would the Government require contractors to staff each training delivery with two instructors and one Virtual Producer when applicable?

Length of class and number of employees within the class, will determine how many instructors will be needed (using best practices).

RFI Section 3.2: What We’re Looking For: The complexity and magnitude of this program suggest a significant need for program oversight and administration. Could the Government add a Program Manager into the required program personnel?

Program Manager will be a government employee. However, we are open to suggestions on what and how many contract personnel will be needed to be successful.

RFI Section 3.2: What We’re Looking For: Could the Government provide more specifics on the required level of experience of the Subject Matter Experts? For example, would they require a minimum of a master’s degree and 5 years of experience in leadership development for federal- or local-level government?

Only leadership development expertise in general. If they have knowledge of the federal government, that is more advantageous.

RFI Section 3.2: What We’re Looking For: Will the Government consider adding a requirement for the successful vendor to conduct a course design meeting with the Government PMO for each new course as part of the curriculum development process?

Yes, we expect the vendor to follow the ADDIE model. There will be "check points" during each stage with the government program manager and any other government stakeholders, as needed.

RFI Section 3.2: What We’re Looking For: Will the Government consider adding a requirement for the successful vendor to conduct pilot deliveries of each new course as part of the curriculum development process?

Proper ISD procedures require pilot deliveries.

RFI Section 4: Appendix: Could the Government clarify what it means by “blended” learning?

Virtual - 100% online, either synchronous or asynchronous; Blended - some instruction and/or content given online and some in-person; Hybrid - giving content to people in-person and online at the same time.

RFI Section 4: Appendix: If the Government requires eLearning to be part of the blended learning approach, could it confirm which level of eLearning interactivity (1, 2, 3, or 4) it requires the successful contractor to develop?

The interactivity of the online learning will be determined by the level of complexity in which the content is created. The level of complexity will be determined through the ADDIE model and working with SMEs.

RFI Section 4: Appendix: Could the Government specify which virtual training delivery platform(s) it prefers?

We have access to Microsoft Teams, Zoom.gov, and Adobe Connection.

RFI Section 4: Appendix: Does the Government expect the contractor to deliver training on the Government’s virtual platform or the contractor’s virtual platform?

All training must be delivered on the government platforms.

RFI Section 4: Appendix: Could the Government specify which Learning Management System(s) (LMSs) it uses?

Starting in 2026, our LMS will be Corner Stone.

RFI Section 4: Appendix: Does the Government expect the contractor to deliver multi-day training on consecutive days (i.e. 5 consecutive days for the GG 11-13 engagement) or periodically, such as once per week for 5 weeks?

Yes, depending on the content.

RFI Section 4: Appendix: Could the Government provide more information about its expectations for destination learning?

TBD

RFI Section 4: Appendix: Does the Government expect the contractor to provide logistical arrangements for the destination, such as transportation, accommodation, and meeting space?

This is yet to be determined, either it will be handled by a government employee, contractor admin, or a combination. Simply depends on what support is needed at that time.

Are there any governing policies or programs that offerors should consider when developing their solutions/ROMs?

DoD Civilian Leader Development Framework and Continuum

Section 4: Appendix: We kindly request that the Government share more information on the anticipated level of effort defined in Section 4. For example, the Fundamental Leadership course is described as "virtual, 20 hours over 5 days" but does not define how many iterations of this course will occur throughout the year.

Can the Government please provide this information for all courses outlined in Section 4?

How many courses offered throughout the year will be determined on a yearly basis based on multiple factors that cannot be determined at this time.

84 How many participants does the Government anticipate for this program annually? Participation varies by month and/or year.

85 How many participants are expected per session, cohort, and/or course? TBD

For virtual or blended learning, will the Government provide the virtual platform or will the offeror need to provide this?

Yes, all virtual or blended learning must be hosted on government platforms.

Will coaching or mentoring be part of the program? If so, how many participants per year are expected at each level of seniority (entry, midcareer, senior)?

No, we already have coaching and mentoring programs in place.

Section 1: RFI Overview: How long is the anticipated length of the engagement? Will the contract be structured with option years, or will the full Period of Performance be a continuous engagement?

See question 10.

Section 1.3: RFI Timeline: The due date is currently set for February 21, 2025. Given the impact the answers to our questions will have on our response and ability to provide a rough order of magnitude (ROM), we ask that DCSA extend the due date to 10 business days after it distributes answers to questions.

The due date will be extended to March 7, 2025 at 2PM ET.

Regarding “design and create a catalog,” may the vendor include any existing Commercial-off-the-Shelf (COTS) content they already possess?

TBD. The content within the COTS will have to be reviewed by the government PM for approval before this can be answered.

Section 2.1: Goals and Outcome: This section states that “DCSA is seeking a strategy” and that the “outcome will be delivered to DCSA in a report format that details recommendations….” Please clarify if the final deliverable of this requirement is a strategy/recommendation report or if it includes the actual instructional design and delivery of the program itself.

The strategy and recommendation should include suggestions about instructional design and delivery but not finished products.

Section 2.1: Goals and Outcome: Please clarify if the requirement for career mapping will include specific roles and career paths within the agency or if it refers to a broader approach related to GG levels.

We are looking for a broader approach related to GG levels.

Section 2.1: Goals and Outcome: Do the “blended executive continuing education options” require formal ACE or college-level accreditation?

Not require, but open to suggestions.

Section 2.2: Background: Will the comprehensive Leadership Insights Project’s outcomes and insights be available to the vendor selected for this project? Will these details be available before the selected vendor and government commits funds to a curriculum direction so that this direction may be fully informed by the data collected?

They will be available after a vendor is selected.

Section 2.2 Background: Are there any recent restructurings or reorganizations that are driving the need for this new requirement?

Not yet, the need is to have customized leadership development for our agency, not off the self content that doesn't speak to our mission.

Section 2.2 Background: Is there an existing leadership development curriculum that is being replaced? If so, what deficiencies were noted? Were there any goals or objectives that were not met?

We are considering replacing multiple contracts and in-house content with one all encompassing contract to have continuity throughout our leadership development.

Section 2.2 Background: Is there an incumbent currently providing leadership development in the agency? Who is the incumbent if there is one?

Currently all leadership development is contracted out to multiple vendors with off the shelf content. We are seeking in-house development that is customized to our agency's needs.

Section 3.1 Who We’re Looking For: Is it the intention that personnel identified for this requirement commute to Quantico, Virginia on a full-time basis? If not, how frequently might personnel be expected to be on site in Quantico?

Yes, the intention is that personnel will commute to Quantico, Va on a full-time basis.

However, due to current seating challenges, telework may be available but all in-person courses will be held at Quantico, Va.

Section 3.1 Who We’re Looking For: Does the requirement for proximity to Quantico, VA refer to all positions identified in Section 3.2 or only to instructors delivering in-person training?

All

Section 3.1 Who We’re Looking For: For any on-site work, will appropriate office space and/or conference rooms be provided by the government, as well as needed supplies and technical resources, for any in-person content development or program delivery?

Yes

Section 3.2 What We’re Looking For: Will clearances be required for any of the job series positions? EOD/BI?

Yes, basic clearance is needed to sit in government space.

Section 3.2 What We’re Looking For: Regarding the requirement to provide the “estimated time to complete each event,” please clarify if “event” refers to individual items in the expected leadership development catalog or to something else, such as tasks in a project plan.

Individual items listed or you can estimate time for the entire catalog to be completed.

Section 3.2 What We’re Looking For: Regarding the requirement to provide the “estimated time to complete each event,” please clarify if this refers to the time to develop, deliver, or participate in each event.

See question 102.

Section 3.2 What We’re Looking For: In order to enable respondents to provide a rough order of magnitude for one year of execution, can the government provide an estimated number of events and participants for the targeted performance period?

TBD

Section 3.3: Submission Requirements: Please confirm that a cover page, cover letter, and table of contents are excluded from the eight-page limitation on the RFI response.

Confirmed

Section 4: Appendix: What is the guiding leadership development continuum or model that underpins these various offerings?

DoD Civilian Leader Development Framework and Continuum

Section 4: Appendix: Does the government anticipate the incorporation of assessments (e.g., Myers Briggs, Hogan, Leadership Styles, etc.) into any of the events in the leadership development catalog? If so, which ones and at what level?

Are there any assessments currently being used within the agency that should be incorporated into the curriculum?

If the content calls for them, yes. Currently we use EQi, EQi 360, MBTI, and FIRO-B.

Section 4: Appendix: When the RFI references “blended” learning, please confirm that it means a blend of live virtual and instructor led learning and not a mix of eLearning and live learning. These terms are often used interchangeably, and it is critical to achieve clarity. Additionally, please also confirm that virtual does in fact mean live virtual instructor led classes and not asynchronous eLearning.

Correct, blended is referring to a combination of virtual (either instructor led or self-paced) and in-person instruction.

Section 4: Appendix: Will the government provide more details around what they envision from the Team Engagements? What are the desired outcomes of these engagements?

Yes, these are based on agency need.

Section 4: Appendix: Will the government provide goals, objectives, outcomes, and/or other details around what they envision from the Executive Continuing Education? What are the desired outcomes of these activities?

Yes, this will be a new addition. Goals, objectives, outcomes, etc. will be formed at a later date.

Section 4: Appendix: Will the government provide goals, objectives, outcomes, and/or other details around what they envision from the Immersive Leadership Experiences? What are the desired outcomes of these experiences?

See question 110

Section 4: Appendix: Will the government provide goals, objectives, outcomes, and/or other details around what they envision from the Emerging Leaders Cohort?

What are the desired outcomes of these activities?

See question 110

Section 4: Appendix: Will the government provide goals, objectives, outcomes, and/or other details around what they envision from the Leading People/Programs/ Organizations? What are the desired outcomes of these activities?

See question 110

Section 4: Appendix: Will the government provide goals, objectives, outcomes, and/or other details around what they envision from the Leading Teams/Projects/People? What are the desired outcomes of this element?

See question 110

Section 4: Appendix: Will the government provide goals, objectives, outcomes, and/or other details around what they envision from the Fundamental Leadership?

What are the desired outcomes of this catalog selection?

See question 110

Section 4: Appendix: Will the government provide goals, objectives, outcomes, and/or other details around what they envision from the Leadership Seminars? What are the desired outcomes of these seminars?

See question 110

Program Drivers & Objectives – What are the primary challenges or gaps DCSA aims to address with this new leadership development initiative? Are there specific pain points or past lessons learned that vendors should consider?

We wish to cover gaps by providing a leadership development program that is customized to our agency. The results form our Leadership Insights Project addresses all gaps and/or concerns and will be made available to the awarded vendor.

Pricing Structure – For the rough order of magnitude (ROM) estimate, does DCSA have a preferred cost structure (e.g., firm-fixed price, labor-hour)? Should vendors include multi-year pricing assumptions, or is the estimate strictly for the first year?

The Government does not have a contract type preference. The Government is requesting pricing for one year, but vendors are welcome to make suggestions and provide additional information.

Hybrid Delivery Model – The RFI states that personnel must be within commuting distance of Quantico, VA. Would DCSA consider a hybrid approach, where instructional design and virtual training are delivered remotely while in-person instruction is handled by local personnel?

We are open to suggestions.

Please clarify the primary leadership challenges this program aims to address, and how success will be measured at an organizational level?

See question 118

Does DCSA have an existing leadership development framework that the new curriculum should align with, or is this an opportunity to develop a program from the ground up?

DoD Civilian Leader Development Framework and Continuum

Should the proposed curriculum integrate with any existing government training programs, or will it function as a standalone initiative?

This is a standalone initiative.

What is the anticipated project timeline from contract award to full implementation, and will this be a phased rollout or a single launch?

This catalog will be a phased rollout.

How much flexibility is expected in curriculum development—should vendors propose a rigidly structured training model, or a more adaptive approach?

At a minimum, facilitator guides are expected for all content. Vendor should follow the ADDIE model.

Given the inclusion of virtual, blended, and in-person courses, does DCSA have preferred platforms and technologies, or should vendors propose best in-class solutions?

See question 76

Can you provide budget visibility or funding parameters to help vendors propose realistic cost models?

Not at this time.

Will this contract be structured as multi-year with renewal options, or is it anticipated as a single-year contract with potential extensions based on performance?

See question 51

Should vendors propose separate cost estimates for curriculum development and program execution, or is an all-inclusive / fixed-pricing model preferred?

Vendors are welcome to provide pricing breakdowns and make suggestions.

Are there security clearance requirements for personnel involved in curriculum development, instruction, and/or program administration?

Yes, everyone will need a clearance.

Will DCSA provide any internal personnel resources to assist with training delivery, or is the vendor expected to supply all instructors, facilitators, and support staff?

We will provide support, however, the majority is expected to come from the vendor.

What is the expected on-site vs. remote work balance for key roles such as instructional designers, subject matter experts (SME’s), instructors, etc.?

With the implementation of return to work, it is no known at this time.

Given that Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Businesses (SDVOSB) and Minority-Owned Businesses (MBE) play a vital role in federal contracting, will DCSA be considering set-aside preferences, subcontracting incentives, or sole-source opportunities for SDVOSB and/or MBE firms when this opportunity transitions to an

RFP?

As noted in the RFI disclaimer, the Government is not committing to a formal solicitation at this time.

What is the anticipated timeline for transitioning from this RFI to a formal Request for Proposal (RFP)?

See question 134

Will there be an opportunity for vendors to participate in a pre-solicitation briefing, industry day, and/or Q&A session before the RFP is issued?

See question 134

Is DCSA considering a single-award contract, or is there potential for multiple awardees handling different aspects of the project?

Please see response to question 44.

Beyond the initial development and execution phase, does DCSA envision this leadership development initiative evolving into a long-term, continually refined program?

Yes

What level of ongoing curriculum updates, participant assessments, and program refinements is expected after the initial rollout?

Curriculum should go through review once every 2 years, or as major changes are needed

Would DCSA be open to supplementary leadership development services, such as executive coaching, immersive leadership experiences, or strategic advisory consulting to further enhance program impact?

We are open to the conversation but currently already have a coaching contract/program.

Regarding the Emerging Leaders Cohort (GG 12-13) and the Strategic Leaders Cohort (GG 14-15), both of which entail in-person instruction for 100 hours over a span of 12 days: Could you please specify whether these courses are intended to be conducted over 12 consecutive days, 12 business days, or if they are to be distributed across 12 business days throughout the year? Is this training expected to be held on base at Quantico, VA? Do we have a permanent location for training?

What A/V equipment is on-site for our use? Do we have to provide all A/V equipment for this contract?

Distributed days throughout several months. All in-person training is conducted at our headquarters in Quantico. Our training room is equipped with everything you could possibly need to conduct training.

Concerning the Immersive Leadership Experiences for all GG levels, which are in-person and involve destination learning lasting 3-5 days: How does your organization define "destination learning"? Will these experiences be held in Quantico, VA, or are there other locations being considered? If it is outside of Quantico, VA, is the contractor responsible for reserving a conference room off-site, or is that the government's responsibility?

We define destination learning as going to a specific destination and learning there. For example, a museum, battlefield, NASA, historical place/monument, etc. The admin for this program will be covered by the govt PM and/or admin support.

143 How many people are we providing training for? Is there a desired cohort size? TBD

144 The total number of sessions planned for each leadership development event? TBD

The expected duration of each session, particularly for the blended learning components?

TBD

The breakdown of blended learning formats, including the ratio of virtual to in-person instruction and any anticipated asynchronous learning components?

TBD

Can the government clarify what level of security clearance is required to perform the services of curriculum development and delivery of training services?

At a minimum, a secret clearance is required.

148 Is this a recompete? If so, who is the incumbent? This is a new initiative

Will the government allow the use of Google (e.g., Meet) and Microsoft programs (e.g., Teams) ? Also, is it acceptable to use other DCSA ATO approved tools on this project?

Question 76

150 Will the government provide laptops or are contractor's laptops acceptable? You will be issued government approved equipment.

Can the government clarify broadly “leadership” is defined versus “management?”

Management is defined as tactical and transaction driven. Leadership is emotion and strategy driven.

The basis of this question derives the nature of the training.

DoD Civilian Leader Development Framework and Continuum

Will the government allow Subject Matter Experts to travel from outside of the Washington, DC metro area?

TBD, but open to suggestions.

Will the Visual Designer be required to work at Quantico or can this person be remote

TBD, but open to suggestions.

Can the government clarify their expectation of having all the courses listed in Section 4: Appendix, sample of expected leadership development catalog completed and ready for delivery in one year?

All catalog items will be developed and delivered in a phased approach.

Will the government accept a degree level in lieu of the hour requirements stated in a specific area?

We are open to the discussion, but experience is important.

Can the government provide insight into what source material will be provided if any by the government supporting the instructional design? If source material is provided, what will be the format (e.g., manuals, PowerPoint slides, etc.)

Lesson plans, facilitator guides, PPTs, participants guides are all currently being used.

Can the government provide insight into how many government resources will be available for review of content and the expected turn around time?

TBD

Is the training conducted in the DC area exclusively or will it be hybrid and/or remote?

Depends on the content/course

Is the government open to recommendations of increasing the duration of Leadership seminars or is it firm on the specified duration?

Yes, we are open to suggestions.

Is the government open to the increased number of sessions for Team Engagements?

Yes, we are open to suggestions.

Is the government open to recommendations of increasing the duration of Executive Continuing Education or is it firm on the specified duration? Yes, we are open to suggestions.

Would the government consider a proposal from a bidder that requires FCL sponsorship when company leadership (CEO and Owner) holds the required clearance?

As noted in the RFI disclaimer, the Government is not committing to a formal solicitation at this time.

Can you clarify if DCSA has any existing instructional design guidelines, leadership training materials, or templates that the vendor should follow, or will the vendor be responsible for designing the leadership development program from scratch?

Lesson plans, facilitator guides, PPTs, participants guides are all currently being used.

Are there any budget constraints or parameters that vendors should be aware of when developing their rough order of magnitude (ROM) pricing?

TBD

Will the personnel need to be on-site in Quantico, or can some work be performed remotely?

See question 133

Are there any specific technologies, platforms, or tools (e.g., Learning Management Systems, virtual classroom software) that DCSA prefers for the virtual or blended courses? Should the vendor plan to integrate these platforms, or is the vendor expected to provide its own?

See question 76

167 What is the anticipated release date for the solicitation?

As noted in the RFI disclaimer, the Government is not committing to a formal solicitation at this time.

168 What is the expected award date?

As noted in the RFI disclaimer, the Government is not committing to a formal solicitation at this time.

169 What key milestones or timelines can the government share for this effort? TBD

Is there a preferred contract vehicle or small business set-aside designation expected for this requirement?

See question 44

Can you clarify whether this effort is a follow-on to an existing contract or a completely new requirement?

New requirement

172 Does the government have an anticipated level of effort for this potential work? No. Vendors are welcome to make suggestions based on experience.

173 What was missing from the previous leadership curriculum?

It was not customized to our agency, also many identified gaps. Awarded vendor will be given the Leadership Insights project data.

174 What specific performance gaps does this new requirement aim to address? See question 173

Can DCSA provide data analysis based on participant evaluations of the previous leadership curriculum?

Not at this time.

Regarding firewalls, will DCSA own the virtual platform for delivering virtual sessions?

Yes

177 Is certification in the Kirkpatrick Model required? No 178 Are other evaluation model certifications acceptable? We are open to suggestions.

179 What is the anticipated number of participants involved at each GG level? TBD

Learning Management System (LMS): Does DCSA currently have an organizational or commercial LMS they use for internal training? Could the contractor leverage this LMS to provide leadership training?

We will have Corner Stone by Jan 2026; yes, it can be leveraged.

Timeframe: Is there a deadline for creating all the courses listed in the leadership development catalog? Would DCSA consider a phased-approach timeline with milestone delivery of each of the courses listed in the appendix? This would allow for cost tradeoff between development time and resources required. A longer development timeline would require less resources and cost less money compared to a shorter development timeline requiring more resources and money.

This will be a phased approach.

Leadership Seminars (all GG levels): virtual, 1-2 hours, 24 sessions: How many personnel are expected to participate in each session? Is the same seminar provided 24 times, or is each of the seminar sessions a separate topic that needs to be developed and delivered? Does any of the material currently exist? Could the seminars be conducted over MS Teams or similar collaborative platforms (Commercial or organizational LMS)?

1. TBD; 2. No, 24 different seminars based on the DoD Competencies; 3. No; and 4. Yes

Team Engagements (all GG levels): blended, 1-4 hours, 10 sessions: How many personnel are expected to participate in each session? Is the same seminar provided 10 times, or is each of the seminar sessions a separate topic that needs to be developed delivered? Does any of the material currently exist? Could the seminars be conducted over MS Teams or similar collaborative platforms (Commercial or organizational LMS)?

1. TBD; 2. TBD; 3. Yes, they will be conducted as the content allows and requested by the given team.

Fundamental Leadership (GG 12 and below): virtual, 20 hours over 5 days: How many personnel are expected to participate in each session? Does any of the material currently exist? Could the seminars be conducted over MS Teams or similar collaborative platforms (Commercial or organizational LMS)?

1. TBD; 2. No; 3. Yes

Leading Teams/Projects/People (GG 11-13): virtual, 25 hours over 5 days: How many personnel are expected to participate in each session? Does any of the material currently exist? Could the seminars be conducted over MS Teams or similar collaborative platforms (Commercial or organizational LMS)?

1. TBD; 2. No; 3. Open to suggestions.

Leading People/Programs/Organizations (GG 14-15): virtual, 25 hours over 5 days:

How many personnel are expected to participate in each session? Does any of the material currently exist? Could the seminars be conducted over MS Teams or similar collaborative platforms (Commercial or organizational LMS)?

1. TBD; 2. No; 3. Open to suggestions.

Emerging Leaders Cohort (GG 12-13): in-person, 100 hours over 12 days: How many personnel are expected to participate in each in-person session? Does any of the material currently exist?

1. TBD; 2. No

Strategic Leaders Cohort (GG 14-15): in-person, 100 hours over 12 days: How many personnel are expected to participate in each in-person session? Does any of the material currently exist?

1. TBD; 2. No

Immersive Leadership Experiences (all GG levels): in-person, destination learning, 3- 5 days: How many personnel are expected to participate in each in-person session?

Does any of the material currently exist?

1. TBD; 2. No

Executive Continuing Education: blended, 40 hours: Will this be a single course that is offered continuously throughout the year? It states blended. Will this include asynchronous with an in-person requirement or a combination of virtual asynchronous and synchronous requirements. How many personnel are expected to participate in this course? Does any of the material currently exist? Could the seminars be conducted over MS Teams or similar collaborative platforms?

1. TBD; 2. TBD; 3. TBD; 4. No; 5. Open to suggestions.

Operation Tempo: Does the customer anticipate simultaneous delivery of the courses in the catalog? For example, would the contractor be expected to deliver a Strategic Leaders Cohort and an Emerging Leaders Cohort simultaneously. If so, please provide the maximum number of activities the contractor would be expected to deliver simultaneously?

No, this will be a phased approach.

192 Section 1: RFI Overview: What historical data is DCSA seeking from respondents? None at this time, but vendors may provide information viewed as relevant.

Section 1: RFI Overview: Will the creation of this catalog include the reuse of any existing content from DCSA’s current Leadership Development Program or other DCSA-owned trainings? If so, which courses might include reused content?

This will be all new.

Section 2.2: Background: Will the government consider sharing pertinent information from the "Leadership Insights Project"?

It will be shared with the awarded vendor.

Section 3.3: Submission Requirements: Does the 8-page response limit include cover page and/or cover letter?

No, the cover letter does not count towards the page limit.

Section 4: Appendix: Will the government provide brief descriptions (e.g., objectives, topics covered, etc.) for each of the courses listed?

This will all be new material.

Section 4: Appendix: Will the government please provide more details around the “Executive Continuing Education” course(s)? How many courses are anticipated? Is development and delivery of these courses part of this program and if not, who is responsible?

All TBD, this is a brand new initiative.

Section 4: Appendix: How many people does the government wish to train under each course listed? How many people would the government like to include in each class?

TBD

Section 4: Appendix: How many instances of each course does the government wish to deploy each year?

TBD

Section 4: Appendix: Is the expectation from the government that all of these courses would be offered concurrently?

No, a phased approach will be used for launch. Once all curriculum is completed, a FY calendar will be built on a 2-year cycle/schedule.

201 What start date does the government anticipate for this work?

As noted in the RFI disclaimer, the Government is not committing to a formal solicitation at this time.

Will the government include a key personnel requirement in the final RFP to demonstrate the offeror’s ability to meet the requirements?

Key personnel are outlined in 3.2

Can you provide more details on the expected size of the target audience for in-person, virtual, and blended training (e.g., number of participants per course, frequency of course offerings)?

TBD

Are there any specific geographic constraints or requirements for in-person training delivery (e.g., multiple locations, travel requirements for instructors)?

Except for the Immersive Leadership courses, all in-person courses will be held at our headquarters in Quantico, VA.

What is the expected level of customization for the curriculum? Will it be based on existing materials, or will it require entirely new content development?

This is entirely new content development.

206 What is the anticipated volume of courses that need to be developed? TBD

Will the curriculum require the development of multimedia elements (e.g., videos, interactive modules, simulations)? If so, what level of complexity is expected?

As the content dictates, appropriately.

What is the expected timeline for the development and delivery of the curriculum?

Are there any critical milestones or deadlines that must be met?

TBD

Is there a phased approach to the development and delivery of the curriculum (e.g., pilot programs, staggered rollouts)?

Yes, all content will be developed and delivered in a phased approach.

Will DCSA provide any internal SMEs or resources to assist with content development, or will all expertise need to be sourced externally?

Yes

What learning management system (LMS) or technology platforms will be used for virtual and blended training? Are there any specific tools or software that must be integrated into the curriculum?

We will have Corner Stone by Jan 2026, and yes.

Is there a preliminary budget range for this project, and how flexible is it? Are there any constraints on the number of personnel or hours that can be allocated?

TBD

Are there any existing resources (e.g., templates, branding guidelines, content libraries) that can be leveraged to reduce development time?

Yes

What level of post-development support is expected (e.g., updates to the curriculum, ongoing instructor training, technical support)?

All curriculum should be on a lifecycle of 2 years, or if major changes are deemed appropriate (i.e., changes made to the DoD Leadership Competencies).

215 What is the preferred turnaround time for developing individual courses? TBD, there will be a phased approach.

Will administrative support be required for scheduling, tracking attendance, and managing training records?

Yes

217 Will all courses require facilitators, or will some be self-paced? Some could be self-paced. Open to suggestions.

218 What is the expected deadline for full course development and implementation? TBD, there will be a phased approach.

219 Are there any courses that need to be prioritized for earlier release? TBD 220 What is the anticipated review and approval process for course content? TBD

Are there any compliance or security reviews that could delay the development timeline?

Reviews in general could delay…