CBP_response_to_questions_vol._1.docx

HSBP1014Q0085

Cargo Pre-Inspection Pilot

1. Paragraph II 1.d. states “Production of a modeling program with statistical results and visual representation of effects of full implementation of cargo pre-inspection at the Buffalo POE that must be compatible with currently utilized CBP authorized software”. Technical Questions:

a. Will CBP provide a list of currently approved software as a reference for bidders? CBP expects the modeling program with statistical results and visual representation in the form of data files that are compatible with CBP computers, i.e. Microsoft or Windows products.

b. Does CBP have a preference as to the type of modeling approach that would be preferred for representing the operation for analysis? (e.g. simulation, cueing model, statistical model) The preferred type of approach is both simulation and cueing models.

c. Would it be acceptable to generate analysis results using contractor owned and supported tools and then provide output to CBP authorized software in the form of data files or compatible algorithms? Yes, as long as output of data files are compatible with CBP software, i.e. Microsoft Products. If any other product is required, please check with CBP in advance.

d. Is CBP open to adding new software to the CBP approved list if it can be demonstrated to be in CBP’s benefit from a cost or technical standpoint? No.

2. Paragraph II 1.d also states that “baseline data of current operations would be required for the modeling” Will CBP provide historic data that predates the contract period of performance for developing a reliable baseline model or is the contractor to plan on collecting baseline data? The contractor should plan on collecting baseline data. It is possible to collect baseline data during non-operating hours of the pilot or when tracking vehicles not participating in the pilot.

3. Did the Phase I effort in Blaine WA receive any contract analysis or implementation support? If so, who is the incumbent contractor that is currently supporting the Phase I Cargo Pre-inspection Pilot? No.

4. Were any reports or data generated during the phase one effort that can be made available to support proposal preparation or as GFI in support of the Phase 2 effort? Data may be made available however Phase I was a proof of concept pilot only and varies considerably operationally. Not sure that data from Phase I would be valuable in the Phase II analysis.

5. Is the required cover page included as part of the 10 page proposal limit? No.

6. The SOO deliverables identify “Pilot Program Data Collection” as a task. Earlier in the SOO reference is made to a small set of variables that could inform a simple simulation model. Is there any guidance available on what data collection techniques the Government prefers? (e.g. stratified sampling, continuous data collection) related questions:

a. Does CBP currently employ any automated data collection tools from which data will either be provided, or can be extracted to support analysis? CBP could provide some data from our Automated Commercial Environment (ACE) system for some primary data however there is no method available to capture release booth data. Contractor will need to conduct manual observation and calculations.

b. Does CBP currently use video cameras at the Pilot site? If so, can that data be made available for analysis? Yes cameras are used on site however they are not CBP property. It is recommended that the contractor set up on site manual gathering of data.

7. The National Geospatial Advisory Council and other Federal governing bodies are now requiring that much geospatial data be collected and managed using open standards. This allows the geospatial data to be used for multiple purposes and more cost effectively managed. Will demonstrating an understanding of and the ability to meet these standards be part of the technical evaluation? Not applicable

8. "Will the government consider making multiple awards (perhaps in the form of a BPA) if it determines that there would be benefits achieved if more than one bidder was involved in the pilot? No.