HSHQDC-11-R-10001-Amendment2-AnswersToVendorQuestions_Set 1.pdf

EAGLE II Request for Proposal Solicitation Number: HSHQDC‐11‐R‐10001

Response to RFP Questions: Set #1 Amendment 000002

Reference Number Section / Attachment Paragraph Page # Question / Comment Response

Section B ‐ Supplies or Services and Prices / Costs, and Section H.8 ‐ Government Property, Information, Workspace B.4.1(b)(1), and H.8(a)

Section B: pg.

3, and Section H.8(a): pg. 42

In this section the solicitation states, "Government Site Rates. When performing at Government sites, the Contractor shall furnish fully‐burdened labor rates. The Government will provde only office space and may provide furniture and office equipment and supplies, as described in Section H.8, Government Property, Information, and Worspace, and as specified in the individual Task Orders." However Section H.8(a) on page 42 states: "The Government does not intent to provide hardware/software equipment required to accomplish day‐to‐day work requirements in support of the overall contract‐level effort." Will the Government provide the basic computer hardwware and the necessary softwaresuch as Microsoft Office and other similiar programs required to perform routine work on a daily basis?

The statement in section B.4.1(b)(1) is corrected to read that the Government will provide office space, furniture, office equipment and supplies. However, in accordance with H.8, individual Task Orders may further specify what hardware / software equipment may be furnished by the government. The government will not provide hardware / software equipment required to perform day‐to‐day work requirements in support of the overall contract‐ level effort. The forthcoming amendment will reflect this clarification.

3 L.5 2 91 Since Monday, 17 January 2011, is a holiday, will the government push the due date back one day to accommodate hard‐copy delivery?

Please note that the due date for proposal submission is changed to February 16, 2011 for the Unrestricted Track and February 23, 2011 for the Small Business Track.

6 L.2, L.10.2.Tab D b, (2,3,4) 89, 102 Are core team members expected to submit a cost proposal? No. One proposal shall be submitted for the entire team.

Section L ‐ Instructions, Conditions, and Notices to Offerors L.9.2 94 Where smaller font size is allowed (tables and graphs), may we use Arial font?

Arial font may be used. Section L.9.2 will be updated in forthcoming RFP Amendment.

Section L ‐ Instructions, Conditions, and Notices to Offerors L.10.1, Tab B 96

Is the prime limited to "up to four (4) other businesses" only, or can additional subcontractors be added, as long as they are in addition to the Core Team?

The prime can have additional subcontractors over the life of the contract;

however, the government is only evaluating the prime and up to 4 other businesses (core team members) as part of the source selection.

Section L ‐ Instructions, Conditions, and Notices to Offerors Tab C 100

Since small businesses do not need to submit a Subcontracting Plan, should we omit Tab C and renumber the tabs, or include Tab C with no content? Small Businesses can omit Tab C, but shall not renumber the tabs.

Section L ‐ Instructions, Conditions, and Notices to Offerors 111

L.10.2 Tab B, Attachment L‐4 ‐ In the draft solicitation, Section L.10.2 – Tab B stated that Attachment L.4 was to be included in that section. That reference no longer exists in the final RFP, but Section J still states that it should be there.

Attachment L‐4 is to be included in Tab A of Volume I. The forthcoming amendment will reflect this change.

Attachment L‐2 Past Performance Questionnaire 109

L.10.1 Tab D and Attachment L‐2 ‐ Since companies may be on multiple teams, it is possible that past performance references could receive multiple copies of the same questionnaire. Is it acceptable to send a single past performance questionnaire to complete and submit for multiple proposals, or should a separate questionnaire be completed for each proposal/team?

Each submitted questionnaire is linked to a single proposal. Therefore, a separate questionnaire is required for each proposal.

Section L ‐ Instructions, Conditions, and Notices to Offerors L.10.1. Tab D 98 May the offeror submit a CPAR in the place of a past performance questionnaire? No.

14 Please advise the small business set‐aside is still available to bid or not.

Yes. The Small Business track is available for proposal submissions by the various small business categories.

Section L ‐ Instructions, Conditions, and Notices to Offerors Page Paragraph 3 (L.9.2) 94

Regarding the electronic copies, the Government states that “Individual file sizes shall not exceed 5 MB.” Comment: In light of the graphics and content provided in each volume, 5 MB per volume could be insufficient. Question: Assuming organizational clarity is not compromised, can the Tabs within each of the two volumes or even tab subsections (e.g., “Task Order Management” in “Tab E

– Factor 3: Program Management” of Volume 1) be saved as individual files?

RFP Sections L.9.2, L.10.1, and L.10.2 will be revised in the forthcoming amendment to reflect instructions for proposal submission, both electronic and hard copy, including a naming convention for filenames on the CDs. The 5 MB file size limitation is still included, however, offerors are not limited to only one file per proposal volume.

Section L ‐ Instructions, Conditions, and Notices to Offerors

Page Paragraph 4 (Section 9.2) 94

"Fold outs for complete spreadsheets and/or organization charts are permissible up to 11" by 17", with printing on only one side, if secured with the volume. Large sheets (i.e., greater than 8 by 11 inch) shall count as two (2) pages." Are fold‐outs only permissible for spreadsheets and/or organization charts, or is their use for other purposes (e.g., Executive Summary) permissible?

Fold‐outs that are greater than 8 1/2 by 11 inch are permissable for other purposes, however, they will count as two pages.

Section L ‐ Instructions, Conditions, and Notices to Offerors

Page Paragraph 5 (Section 9.2) 94

"The Offeror shall provide a certification that the hardcopy version of the proposal is exactly the same as the electronic version." There are no further instructions regarding where this certification should be provided. Will the Govt please clarify, or alternatively, indicate whether inclusion of the required certification language in the cover letter is sufficient?

The certification shall be included in the cover letter. The forthcoming amendment reflects that clarification.

Response to RFP Questions: Set #1 Amendment 000002

Reference Number Section / Attachment Paragraph Page # Question / Comment Response

Attachment L‐1 and Attachment L‐4 N/A

Portions of these checklists are duplicated in both attachments. Since Attachment L‐4 is more complete, should we disregard Attachment L‐1?

No. Offerors are to complete both checklists. The checklist in Attachment L‐1 shall remain with the excel spreadsheet containing the Labor Rates.

Attachment L‐2 Past Performance Questionnaire 2 1

Should the subject line in the submission e‐mail for a core team member's questionnaire reference both core team partner name and prime contractor name? How?

The “subject” line in the submission email shall clearly indicate:

(1) EAGLE II Past Performance Questionnaire Submission for Offeror [Name];

or (2) EAGLE II Past Performance Questionnaire Submission for Prime Offeror [Name] ‐ Core Team Member [Name] ‐ See , Section L.10.1, Tab D in the forthcoming amendment for clarification.

Section L ‐ Instructions, Conditions, and Notices to Offerors L.10.1 100

In L.10.1, there is no specific limit on the length of PM and TC resumes. Attachment L‐4, Tab F of Vol. I, it indicates a 2 page limit for the PM and TC resumes. Is there a page limit for the resumes?

There is a page limit of 6 pages for Staffing (Tab F). The resumes for the PM and teaming coordinator are included within the pages limits. Attachment L‐ 4 will be revised in the forthcoming amendment.

Section L ‐ Instructions, Conditions, and Notices to Offerors L.9.2, para. 2 94

In the phrase "8‐point font on graphs and 10‐point font on tables", did the Government intend for "graphs" to be "graphics"? Yes. The forthcoming amendment will reflect the change.

24 Section A ‐ Standard Form 33 SF 33 Block 12 1 The SF 33 in block 12 states the proposal must be valid for 240 days; L.10.1, Cover Letter states the proposal must be valid for 180 days. Please clarify.

This will be corrected in a forthcoming amendment to reflect the requirement for the proposal acceptance period to be valid through December 1, 2011.

Section L ‐ Instructions, Conditions, and Notices to Offerors L.10.1, Tab C, Para. (a) 97

Does the narrative of the [offeror's] qualifications include the prime and the core team, or just the prime? The following paragraph, (b), refers to "Prime Offeror" when limited to Prime and not core team members. The narrative can include the prime and the core team.

Section L ‐ Instructions, Conditions, and Notices to Offerors L.5.2 92

Is it possible for us to hand deliver our proposal? Are there any special instructions for hand delivery? No. DHS has a mail processing facility and does not allow for hand‐deliveries.

Section L ‐ Instructions, Conditions, and Notices to Offerors L.9.2 94

It states that the font required is Times New Roman. Is is possible to use Arial for some of the graphics and tables to provide for easier reading? See response to question 8.

Section L ‐ Instructions, Conditions, and Notices to Offerors L.10.1 ‐ Tab F 100

In Tab F, is "…its plan for recruiting, training, and retaining qualified/secured personnel" referring to an overall staffing plan and not a role of the Teaming Coordinator? We assume so, but want to confirm.

Yes, this refers to an overall staffing plan and not the role of the Teaming Coordinator.

35 Section A ‐ Standard Form 33 Block 12 1 For estimating purposes, can the Government confirm the start date for the period of performance? The government suggests using December 1, 2011 as the start date of Year 1.

Section B ‐ Supplies or Services and Prices / Costs (2) 6 Non‐competitive Task Orders – Under what circumstances will there be a non‐competitive TO.

Section G.4.2, Fair Opportunity Exceptions, lists circumstances for a non‐ competitive TO.

Attachment L‐2 Past Performance Questionnaire Part I 2

The Questionnaire asks for the company name, address, and DUNS number of the EAGLE II Offeror (prime). For those instances in which the past performance of a core team member is used, should their name and information be entered here?

Yes, the core team member's name and informaton should be entered there.

40 When does a small business subcontractor (other than CORE) need to re‐represent its size status?

A small business subcontractor re‐represents its size status to a prime at the time it proposes for a subcontract award.

Section H ‐ Special Contracting Requirements H.19(c) 47 If we want to add a sub to a TO do we need to submit request 15 days ahead for consent? Only if consent is required by the provision at H.19.

Section L ‐ Instructions, Conditions, and Notices to Offerors L.10.2 Tab C Factor 5 101

Should we incorporate the requirements of Subfactors 1, 2 and 3 into the DHS Subcontracting Plan Template (Attachment L‐5)?

The DHS Subcontracting Plan Template is for subfactor 1. Offerors shall not incorporate responses for subfactors 2 and 3 into the template.

46 Overall FAQ 2

Based on Question 8 of the Frequently Asked Questions; will small business subcontractors be subject to the same timeline for recertification under the Unrestricted portion of this effort? Can their small business status as initially proposed be utilized in the Subcontracting Plan Report until re‐certification? See response to question 40.

Response to RFP Questions: Set #1 Amendment 000002

Reference Number Section / Attachment Paragraph Page # Question / Comment Response

Section L ‐ Instructions, Conditions, and Notices to Offerors L.10 86

L.10, Format and Instructions for Proposal Submission, states: For each Volume, the Offeror shall provide an original and three (3) paper copies (four (4) total copies) and three (3) electronic copies.

Would the Government please provide additional instructions for submitting the 3 electronic copies; e.g., a typical submission would include the CD in a CD pocket inserted into the print copy ring binder. In this case, the Government has requested 4 print copies but only 3 CDs. Does the Government want all 3 CDs packaged and delivered together as a group but separate from the 4 print copies? For each Volume, do we also mark one CD as an original and the others as copies?

See response to question 15. In addition, the packaging is at the discretion of the offeror.

Section L ‐ Instructions, Conditions, and Notices to Offerors

L.10.1 Tab E 99

L.10.1, Tab E‐‐Factor 3, states: "This section shall include: Organization. An organizational chart for the contract and all lines of authority, including the roles and responsibilities of the prime and the core team members, if applicable, and the position of the prime Contractor (the division or group proposed to perform this effort) within its overall corporate organization and a description of the level of corporate project oversight planned in terms of authority to make programmatic decisions and implement design solutions."

Would the Government please clarify if the organization chart, itself, is to include all of the requested data in this bullet, or if the "description of the level of corporate project oversight" is to be presented separately as text rather than chart content or if all data except the organization chart itself is to be presented as separately as text or if the Offeror may choose content presentation other than the required organization chart?

The Offeror shall use its best judgment to fulfill the requirements of this Section.

Section L ‐ Instructions, Conditions, and Notices to Offerors L.9.2 94

L.9.2, General Format Instructions, para. 2, states: Each volume shall also be marked to indicate whether it is an original or copy. Does this apply to both print and electronic copies? I.e., for each Volume, do we also mark one CD as an original and the others as copies? See response to question 15.

Section L ‐ Instructions, Conditions, and Notices to Offerors L.9.2 94

L.9.2, General Format Instructions, para. 2, states (with respect to organization charts or other graphic illustrations): Offerors shall ensure that the print is easily readable; no less than 8‐point font on graphs and 10‐point font on tables.

No specific font style is stated for the charts, graphic illustrations, and tables. May another more readable font style (not Times New Roman) be used in this instance? See response to question 8.

52 Section J ‐ List of Attachments 83, 96 & 100 L‐4 Proposal Preparation Checklist (Ref. L.10.2 Tab B). Update to L.10.1 Tab A? See response to question 11.

53 Section J ‐ List of Attachments 83, 98 & 101 L‐3 Labor Category Table (Ref L.10.1 Tab D). Update to L.10.2 Tab D?

L‐3, Labor Category Table should reference L.10.2 Tab D. This will be corrected in a forthcoming amendment.

Section L ‐ Instructions, Conditions, and Notices to Offerors L.9 93

Section L.9 states that the proposal shall be indexed (cross‐indexed as appropriate). Would a Table of Contents be an acceptable form of indexing for each volume? If a Table of Contents is acceptable, will it be excluded from the page limits of Volume I?

The forthcoming amendment will require a table of contents be submitted with each volume. It will be excluded from the page limits.

Section L ‐ Instructions, Conditions, and Notices to Offerors L.9.2 94

We recognize that there are page limitations within sections of each Volume; is a title page, a table of contents, and an acronym list permitted for each volume and excluded from page limitations?

Are dividers excluded from the page limitations?

The forthcoming amendment will require a table of contents be submitted with each volume. The Table of Contents will be excluded from the page limitation. A title page and dividers are allowed and will be excluded from the page limitation. Other extraneous data (e.g. acronym lists, appendices, etc.) if included, will be included in the page limitation.

Attachment L‐1 Pricing Templates Pricing Tabs

We recognize that the multiple worksheets for the pricing tables are formatted to print on legal size paper. Does the Government intend for the hard copy submission to be provided in the binders as legal size paper? This question is brought up, due to the fact that in Section L.9.2, last sentence before the Note, we are requested to provide a certification that the hard copy version of our proposal is exactly the same as the electronic version. Can we change the page setup of the file to 11x17 or does the Government intend for us to submit on legal size paper?

Hard copy submissions of Attachment L‐1, Pricing Tables, shall be submitted on legal size paper (8 1/2 by 14 inch). This will be reflected in the forthcoming amendment.

57 Section A ‐ Standard Form 33 9 1 May the proposal be hand delivered by the offeror? See response to question 28.

Response to RFP Questions: Set #1 Amendment 000002

Reference Number Section / Attachment Paragraph Page # Question / Comment Response

Section L ‐ Instructions, Conditions, and Notices to Offerors L.10.1 TAB C 98

Should the "Reference information" include "Reference contract/order number (e.g. contract, BPA, task order)"?

Yes. This information shall be included. The forthcoming amendment will reflect this change.

Section L ‐ Instructions, Conditions, and Notices to Offerors L.10.1 TAB D 98‐99 Should the offeror provide the "brief narrative statement" to their client reference? This is left to the discretion of the offeror.

Section F ‐ Deliveries or Performance 6 18 How many sites, or places of performance, are anticipated for this project?

The Government is unable to determine at this time the number of sites as this will be determined at the task order level.

Section L ‐ Instructions, Conditions, and Notices to Offerors L.10.1 100 Do the Key Personnel resumes count towards the 6‐page "Staffing" section limit? See response to question 22.

Section L ‐ Instructions, Conditions, and Notices to Offerors L.10.1 100 Is there a page limit for the individual resumes? See response to question 22.

Section L ‐ Instructions, Conditions, and Notices to Offerors L.5 95

In what format would DHS prefer to receive the 3 electronic copies (e.g. CD‐ROM)? Should electronic copies be emailed to any particular recipient in addition to the hard copy submission?

A change to RFP Section L.9.2 will be issued in the forthcoming RFP Amendment.

Section L ‐ Instructions, Conditions, and Notices to Offerors L.5 95 If CDs are the preferred medium for the electronic copy requirement, how should CDs be marked? See response to question 64.

Attachment L‐2 Past Performance Questionnaire 1, 2 1

If a core team member other than the prime is completing a past performance questionnaire, which company name should be listed as "Offeror" in Section A and in resulting subject line of email to DHS? See response to question 20.

Section L ‐ Instructions, Conditions, and Notices to Offerors L.10.1 98

Must completed past performance questionnaires also be included as part of an Offeror's response in Tab D (i.e. in addition to the references emailing the completed questionnaires directly to DHS)? No

69 Section I ‐ Contract Clauses I.4 69 Does each Core Team Member and Subcontractor need to complete the COI as part of the proposal submission? No.

Section K ‐ Representations and Certifications K.1 84

Does each Core Team Member and Subcontractor need to complete their Reps and Certs as well as part of the proposal submission or do you require only the Prime's Reps and Certs?

Only the Prime Offeror is required to submit Representations and Certifications as part of the proposal.

Attachment L‐1 Pricing Templates L‐1

Are the pricing templates in Excel Workbook intentionally locked from expansion? If this is password protected, can we have a non‐password protected version for internal analysis?

Yes, Attachment L‐1 is intentionally locked. The government will not issue an unlocked version of the pricing templates. See amendment 00001.

74 Overall Do all references to "days", mean Business days?

Please see FAR 2.101 Definitions. "Day" means, unless otherwise specified, a calendar day.

Section B ‐ Supplies or Services and Prices / Costs B.4.1.2(b)(3) 6

Would the government clarify what an "affiliate" rate is? Participants previously defined include prime, core teammate, subcontractor, etc. but the term "affiliate" is not defined

Business units in which either directly or indirectly, one unit controls or has the power to control the other, or another concern controls or has the power to control both. In determining whether affiliation exists, consideration is given to all appropriate factors including common ownership, common management, and contractual relationships; provided, that restraints imposed by a franchise agreement are not considered in determining whether the franchisor controls or has the power to control the franchisee, if the franchisee has the right to profit from its effort, commensurate with ownership, and bears the risk of loss or failure. See FAR Subpart 19.1.

Attachment L‐3 Labor Category Table L‐3 1

Will the government clarify the use of "and / or" in the qualifications between education and experience? Will either criteria will suffice (e.g. the education or the experience)?

Either or both criteria will suffice; however, the government is expecting a certain level of capability and competency for each level which is articulated in the knowledge/skill description. Level 1 is equivalent to an Entry Level IT Professional, Level 2 is equivalent to a Mid‐Career IT Professional and Level 3 is equivalent to an Expert IT Professional.

Response to RFP Questions: Set #1 Amendment 000002

Reference Number Section / Attachment Paragraph Page # Question / Comment Response

Section L ‐ Instructions, Conditions, and Notices to Offerors L10.1 ‐Tab D 98

May we clarify by having the PPQ email subject line reference substitute something like "Past performance questionnaire submission for company A as a core team member of the company B team" to facilitiate handling by DHS? The instructions with regard to the "subject" line of the responding email for PPQs may not be specific enough to avoid handling confusion when received by the government. When the offerors name is cited, it will probably have the name of the company being cited in the past performance. This may not be sufficient to tie the company to the appropriate prime team if the company is a core team member. See response to question 66

Section F ‐ Deliveries or Performance F.8.5 22

Does Re‐representation of Small Business Size requirements apply to core team members and other subcontractors? Based on Question #8, core team members only have to re‐represent if they are subject ot merger or acquisition. See response to question 40.

Section L ‐ Instructions, Conditions, and Notices to Offerors 10 95

Will the government consider the following to be excluded from the page count ‐ eg., Cover Page, Table of Contents, Abbrieviations and Acronyms, Appendicies,with additional information on patents, corporate capabilities, publications, other personnal with qualifications as functional matter experts and subject matter experts, additional information on team presence in Conus and Oconus? See response to question 55.

Section H ‐ Special Contracting Requirements 16 45

Does the government recommend that all the listed minimum requirements for the contractors web site be grouped together under a common link?

Minimum information should be easily accessible and identifiable for all levels of computer users.

82 Section I ‐ Contract Clauses 1 61,62,63, 64, Can the offeror assume that the FAR clauses referred to have a cut off date relative to the proposal submission date;, ie., is there a reasonable cutoff to potential amendments to the FARs in relation to what the offeror is responsible for in the proposal?

All clauses included in the RFP are applicable to the resultant contract for the full period of performance of the contract. Further, offerors are responsible for ensuring all amendments to the RFP are incorproated into their proposal prior to submission.

Section M ‐ Evaluation Factors for Award 1 105

a. Best value, Please clarify if the government will also consider innovative approach, e.g., patents, pulications, etc., In addition to adherance to Section L and the criteria defined in Section L alone.

Please also clarify out understanding that the government is looking for contractors who can support the IT requirements based on the mission of DHS in general and all the agencies in particular, ie., a good understanding and approach with industry functional and subject matter experts who understand the DHS mission very well.

All proposal submissions will be evaluated in accordance with Sections L and M of the RFP. Further, RFP Section L.10.1, Tab C, Factor 1 Corporate experience states that offerors must provide five (5) examples of corporate information for active or complete contracts, task orders or subcontracts and at least one must demonstrate the use of creative solutions or innovations in achieving or exceeding customer objectives.

Section M ‐ Evaluation Factors for Award 4 109

Will the government provide names, addresses, and contact information of such contractors that the government may intend to use so that we can have a non‐disclosure agreement exacuted in place with such contractors?

Section M.4 serves as the Government's notification to potential offerors that contractor support may be utilized in the evaluation of proposals. An offeror's submission of a proposal to be evaluated is considered acknowledgement and acceptance of this RFP condition. The Government will ensure appropriate Conflict of Interest, Non‐Disclosure and standards of conduct agreements are in place prior to participation by any contractor support.

Section H ‐ Special Contracting Requirements 15 45

Can the government provide the reference to or what the Explicit Written Consent for news release of commercial advertising looks like so it can be reviewed before in advance?

At such time as a successful offeror(s) or someone acting on behalf of a successful offeror requires such explicit written consent, the EAGLE II PM named in the contract shall be contacted by said persons to obtain such written consent.

Attachment L‐3 Labor Category Table 1 1

Please clarify if the government will accept additional labor categories if the offeror based on their experience provide any more than the ones already identified? The government will not accept additional labor categories.

Section H ‐ Special Contracting Requirements 3 39

What will the advance notification to the contractor be regarding any specific models of desktop computers, notebooks & monitors in relation to a TO being release or awarded to said contractor or will the specific models be outlined in the TO?

Any references to specific models of hardware will be outlined in individual task orders.

Section H ‐ Special Contracting Requirements 6.2 41

Will there be training or seminars recommended to be attended by the government and if yes, will those costs be reimbursed?

The Government is unable to determine at this time if there are any training or seminars that will be required under individual task orders.

Response to RFP Questions: Set #1 Amendment 000002

Reference Number Section / Attachment Paragraph Page # Question / Comment Response

Section F ‐ Deliveries or Performance 8.4 21

Annual Small Business 50% report ‐ If the team consists of a Prime who is an 8a, woman owned and core partners are SDVOB, Hub‐Zone, Native American etc., will the government accept one proposal response for all the socio‐economic categories that the proposer offers the bid upon or has the same response need to be copied four times and submitted separately to qualify in all the socio‐economic categories? We propose to save the government review time, we will comply to the rules of 50% performance on cost of labor will be from the socio‐economic category business core team member who is leading the set aside.

DHS will accept one Annual Small Business 50% Report from a small business prime awardee. The prime will report according to the type of small business category the contract was awarded under. The report will provide information on each individual task order won to date under the contract.

However, for EAGLE II proposal submissions, offerors must submit a proposal for each category/track in which it desires to be considered.

Attachment H‐2 EVMS Self‐ Verification Form 1 1

Self Verification Form ‐ Please clarify if this form has to be completed by the prime, core team and sub‐contractors or only by the Prime? The self‐verification form is to be completed by the Prime.

Section K ‐ Representations and Certifications 1 84

Government to advise if only the Prime or all the core team and sub‐contractors have to complete the Representations and Certifications and such completed Representations and Certifications have to be part of the proposal submission? See response to question 70.

Section L ‐ Instructions, Conditions, and Notices to Offerors 10.2 100

In Tab B, We intend to propose a few Universities to bring in innovation into our proposal team as sub‐contractors. Can the government advise if we will need to attach to teaming agreements?

Teaming agreements are required for prime offerors proposing core team members. If the universities will be considered a part of the core team being proposed, then teaming agreements are required submissions.

Section L ‐ Instructions, Conditions, and Notices to Offerors 10.2 101 In Tab D, Please clarify "Each Offeror", does it mean the core team and the sub‐contractors?

A single submission is required in Tab D that encompasses the team proposed.

Section L ‐ Instructions, Conditions, and Notices to Offerors 10.2 103

In Tab E, Please clarify "Each Offeror" does it mean the Prime or does it mean the core team and all the sub‐contractors The prime offeror only.

Section L ‐ Instructions, Conditions, and Notices to Offerors

Paragraph 5.1 – General Format Instructions 92

If desired, can offerors provide a Cover Page, and/or a Table of Contents, and/or Compliance Matrix that do not count towards page count limits for Volumes I and II?” See response to question 55.

Attachment L‐1 Pricing Templates Lines 253 and 262 1, 2

Attachment L‐1, "Pricing Template" and Attachment L‐3, "Labor Category Table" include the same labor categories in the same exact order, with one exception: in Attachment L‐1, the order of "Systems Analyst" and "Systems Engineer" is reversed as compared to the order of these Labor Categories in Attachment L‐3. Please confirm that the Pricing Template hours for these two labor categories in Attachment L‐1 is correct.

The hours for the Systems Analyst and Systems Engineer in Attachment L‐1 are correct.

101 Overall 2 1 Can an Offeror propose in more than one functional category if the Offeror is not going to be identified as a prime or core team member? No. The RFP has been amended to reflect this clarification.

102 Overall 2 1

Is a wholly owned subsidiary of an Offeror, which has an independent corporate structure, considered an independent contracting entity such that the prohibitions against awards across functional categories would not apply?

If an offeror's parent organization is submitting an offer under one functional category, subsidiaries of offerors will be restricted from submitting a proposal under another functional category. Offerors may not submit or be a part of proposals in more than one functional category, either as a prime contractor or core team member. The same restriction applies to affiliated business units of an offeror. This clarification will be provided in a forthcoming amendment.

103 Overall 2 1 Will a non‐Prime/non‐Core team member be in any way restricted from future EAGLE II subcontracting opportunities by Teaming with an awardee of one functional category? Subcontracting opportunities must abide by I.4 and I.5 clauses.

Section L ‐ Instructions, Conditions, and Notices to Offerors

Section L.10.1 Tabs C and D. Pp. 97‐98 for EAGLE 2

RFP.

For the EAGLE 2, teaming is not required. However, many small businesses don’t have 5 past performances to satisfy the corporate experience and past performance requirements. Is the Government open to changing the RFP language to provide maximum of 5 corporate experiences and past performances? No, the RFP language will remain as written. The level of competition for the limited number of EAGLE II awards will be significant. Offerors with limited corporate experience should consider becoming part of a team.

Response to RFP Questions: Set #1 Amendment 000002

Reference Number Section / Attachment Paragraph Page # Question / Comment Response

Section L ‐ Instructions, Conditions, and Notices to Offerors

L.10.1 Tab F Para. 1 100

Tab F (Staffing) has a total page limit of 6 pages but the number of pages per resume is not provided. However, in Attachment L‐4 on page 4, the Proposal Preparation Checklist indicates a page limit of 2 pages per resume. Can the Government please confirm the page limit per resume? See response to question 22.

Attachment B‐1 Labor Rate Tables N/A 1

Throughout the RFP there are references to Attachment B‐1, Labor Rate Tables. In Section J, the RFP states that Attachment B‐1, Labor Rate Tables, is to be completed on contract award.

However, in the Proposal Preparation Checklist, Attachment B‐1 is listed and is named “Cost/Price Proposal.” No Attachment B‐1 is included in the RFP. Please clarify whether Attachment B‐1 is supposed to be included in the RFP, and if not, whether it should be removed from the Proposal Preparation Checklist.

Attachment B‐1, Labor Rate Tables, will be completed at contract award using the data contained in Attachment L‐1 Pricing Templates, as submitted by the successful offerors. Revisions to the Proposal Preparation Checklist, including the removal of the reference of Attachment B‐1, will be addressed in the forthcoming amendment.

Section L ‐ Instructions, Conditions, and Notices to Offerors L.5.2 92

Please confirm that proposals may be hand delivered to the address in section L.5.2. Please also confirm if proposals may be submitted prior to the due date.

See response to question 28. Proposals must be received on or before the due date.

Section L ‐ Instructions, Conditions, and Notices to Offerors L.9.2

The RFP requires that the Offeror shall provide a certification that the hardcopy version of the proposal is exactly the same as the electronic version. Please identify which section of the proposal this certification should be included in (e.g., the cover letter). See response to question 17.

Section L ‐ Instructions, Conditions, and Notices to Offerors L.10.1 95

The RFP states "Small Business Offerors will not be permitted to submit proposals (participate as a prime or a core team member) in more than one (1) Functional (FC) on either the Unrestricted or Small Business tracks. This only applies to Small Business FC1." Please confirm, therefore, that a Small Business Prime on FC2 may be on an Unrestricted team in FC1. Please also confirm that this will not render the FC1 prime ineligible for award.

Section L.10.1, Volume 1‐Technical/Management Proposal will be revised for clarity in the forthcoming amendment. In addition, please see responses to questions 5 and 6 of the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) dated November 1, 2010.

Attachment L‐3 Labor Category Table N/A 1

The criteria for Level I – Level III make it seem that any degrees are optional by using “and / or”.

This means that degrees are not required for any level. This may drive labor rates very, very low and may not retain the current DHS labor force who have critical agency knowledge (because many of these have Bachelor's Degrees). Please strongly consider creating a format that sets years of experience requirements but allows for substitution of degrees consistently at each level (e.g Assoociates = 1 year exp, Bachelor’s = 2 year experience equivalent). Many companies, including small businesses, have a workforce with Bachelor's or more advance degrees but may not be able to be price competitive. See response to question 76.

Attachment L‐3 Labor Category Table N/A 1

Labor Category Levels – In the current labor category construct, using the term “and/or”, do both of the following meet the criteria for a Level III Program Manager: (a) someone with a Master’s Degree but no years of experience and (b) someone with no education and 16 years of experience? If so, this construct will result in a wide variety of people and may be interpreted differently. This will pose a significant challenge in delivery of the work, where less experienced are chosen so that companies can make more profit within the blended rates. Companies will not be incented to recruit or retain personnel in the 11‐15 years of experience range, a range that is critical to successful delivery under EAGLE II. We request that the Government please consider using a base number of years with a modifier for varying Educational degrees. See response to question 76.

Response to RFP Questions: Set #1 Amendment 000002

Reference Number Section / Attachment Paragraph Page # Question / Comment Response

Section L ‐ Instructions, Conditions, and Notices to Offerors N/A 1

Labor Category Levels – The current years of experience range for the Levels of Labor Categories (Level I, Level II, and Level III) is very challenging. There is a significant differential in pay and capability level between someone with 5 years of experience and someone with 15 years of experience, yet they are in the same range. In addition, the current levels could result in issues retaining highly qualified personnel with DHS EAGLE experience. To maximize the retention of candidates in the higher level of this range, we highly recommend that DHS consider shifting the years of experience at the following levels to improve retention: 1) Level I ‐ 1‐4 years, 2) Level II 5 ‐ 10 years, 3) Level III 11+ years. See response to question 76.

Section L ‐ Instructions, Conditions, and Notices to Offerors Tab B 96

Please confirm that offerors may provide a summary of the teaming agreements in this tab as well as include actual signed teaming agreements with core team members. If a summary is permitted, please confirm that this summary is not page limited. We recommmend that DHS allow this summary and limit it to one page in order to assist the evaluators in reviewing the teaming agreements.

1) It is up to the offeror's discretion to submit a summary of the teaming agreement in this tab. 2) There is no applicable page limitation for Teaming Arrangements

Section M ‐ Evaluation Factors for Award N/A N/A Please identify how the teaming agreements will be evaluated.

Teaming agreements are a documentation requirement of the RFP. They are not part of the evaluation factors for award.

Section L ‐ Instructions, Conditions, and Notices to Offerors L.10.1 95

Will all the tabs of each volume be read by the same evaluator, or will DHS assign different evaluators to different secions? The answer to this will affect if/how we cross reference materials between sections.

The Government recommends that offerors respond to all evaluation factors as stand‐alones since different evaluators may be assigned to different sections.

Section D ‐ Packaging and Marking Tab D 98

Would DHS provide a clear guidance statement on what, if any, clearly expected difference is supposed to be communicated between past performance in Section C and D.

As provided in Section M of the forthcoming amendment to the RFP, corporate experience will consider the offeror's demonstrated qualifications and experience in performing work of the same or similar nature as that of the proposed Functional Category. The Past performance evaluation will assess the Offeror’s ability to successfully perform as an EAGLE II contract holder. In laymen's language, corporate experience demonstrates on "what" an offeror has performed and past performance provides information on "how" an offeror has performed.

Section L ‐ Instructions, Conditions, and Notices to Offerors L.10.1 98

In the RFP, Section L.10.1 Technical/Management Proposal Tab D‐ Factor 2: Past Performance states the following: (Five page limit, excluding Past Performance Questionaires). Question: Does that also mean that other Government required Attachments/Documents and Exhibits; and Prime and Core Team Member Exhibits will also be excluded from the Page Counts in any other Technical/Management proposal Volume I and the Volume II Tabs?

Fillable attachments to be submitted with Volume I of the proposal are excluded from the page limitation (e.g. EVMS Self‐Verification Form, Past Performance Questionnaire, and Proposal Preparation Checklist). Volume II has no page limitations.

Attachment H‐2 EVMS Self‐ Verification Form L.10.1 99 We assume that this form is excluded from the page count of Factor 3: Program Management Yes. The assumption is correct.

Section B ‐ Supplies or Services and Prices / Costs B.4.2 8

Will the Government reimburse contractors for Defense Base Act insurance expense for work outside CONUS? Will applicable Status of Forces Agreements (SOFA) apply to contractor personnel? This will be determined at the task order level.

Section L ‐ Instructions, Conditions, and Notices to Offerors L.10.1 99

In Factor 3: Program Management, 4th bullet, we assume that the government would like to see a description of quality control methodologies. Please confirm.

The requirements of this element of Factor 3, Program Management are outlined in the RFP. Offeror should use its judgement as to what is appropriate for inclusion.

Section L ‐ Instructions, Conditions, and Notices to Offerors L.9 93

Instructions call for material to be indexed (cross indexed as appropriate). What hierarchal level do you want the index to reflect? It is the Offeror's discretion to use the best suited method.

Section L ‐ Instructions, Conditions, and Notices to Offerors

There are no instructions regarding Cover Page, Table of Contents, Table of Exhibits, Compliance or Cross Reference Matrix, Acronym Glossary, or Appendices for either Volume 1 or 2. Are these items excluded from the page count? See response to question 55.

Response to RFP Questions: Set #1 Amendment 000002

Reference Number Section / Attachment Paragraph Page # Question / Comment Response

Section L ‐ Instructions, Conditions, and Notices to Offerors L.10.1 97‐98

Tab C Project Descripton calls for identifying the prime or core team member that performed the work. Is corporate experience and past performance limited only to prime and core team members? Can corporate experience and past performance of subcontractors who are not core team members be used? No.

Section L ‐ Instructions, Conditions, and Notices to Offerors L.10.1(b) 95

Section L.10.1(b) states that "Past performance is comprised of two elements:" Element (b) is the questionnaire. Since the questionnaire is sent by the client‐‐it will not be included in this tab. Is this correct? Yes.

Section H ‐ Special Contracting Requirements H.19(e) 48

The Small Business goal is 40%. Does this include the subcategories of SDVOSB, VOSB, 8(a), etc.? Is the 3% goal for SDVOSD included within the 6% for Veteran‐Owned Small Businesses?

No, the DHS subcontracting goals are separate and distinct, not inclusive. The subcategories do not roll up to equal the 40% small business goal. Yes, all SDVOSB’s are considered VOSB’s.

Section L ‐ Instructions, Conditions, and Notices to Offerors L.10.1 97‐98

In order to best evaluate offerors capabilities in the 15 support areas, can we introduce additional experience to cover those areas. Since some small businesses on our team have specific experience in specialized areas, they would not be considered core team members.

The RFP requires the submission of five corporate experience statements and five past performance questionnaires. The Offeror shall use its discretion in presenting its best solution. Responses (proposed examples) to these two areas are limited to the prime offeror and any core team members.

Section L ‐ Instructions, Conditions, and Notices to Offerors 9.2 94

Is the font in tables and figures also restricted to Times New Roman? Alternately, may we choose a different font (e.g., Arial) for tables and figures? See response to question 8.

Section L ‐ Instructions, Conditions, and Notices to Offerors 9.2 94

Are section headings and page headers and footers required to meet the font selection and font size requirements? Yes. See Section L.9.2 in the forthcoming amendment for clarification.

Section L ‐ Instructions, Conditions, and Notices to Offerors 10.1 95

"Small Business Offerors will not be permitted to submit proposals (participate as a prime or a core team member) in more than one (1) Functional Category (FC) on either the Unrestricted or Small Business tracks. This only applies to Small Business FC1." Could a small business on one winning team become a subcontractor to an awarded team after contract start without violating this clause? See response to question 112.

Section L ‐ Instructions, Conditions, and Notices to Offerors

10.2 Tab C, items (1), (2), (3) 100 ‐ 101

We are a small business and are contemplating leading a team consisting of a mixture of small and large businesses. What additional and/or amended guidance can the government provide for these paragraphs related to our team.

There are no limits on team members; however, the Prime and it's Core Team will only be evaluated.

Section L ‐ Instructions, Conditions, and Notices to Offerors 5 91

There are two award tracks. Can a small business lead a team and submit a proposal for both the full & open competition and for the small business set aside EAGLE competitions?

Yes. However, a small business should consider the level of competition anticipated on the unrestricted procurement prior to submitting a proposal in that track.

Section F ‐ Deliveries or Performance 8.4 items 1 & 2 21

If we bid and win the small business track under an 8(a) set‐asside category and we graduate from the 8(a) program during the life of the contract will we still be able to respond to solicitations under the EAGLE II (i.e., Small Business (SB) and Unrestricted). What tracks would we be able to respond to solicitations under once graduated and no longer certified Small Disadvantaged Businesses (SDB)?

The firm will be considered 8(a) for the life of the contract unless one of the conditions are met stated in the RFP Section F.8.5. See also FAQ # 8.

Section F ‐ Deliveries or Performance 8.4 items 1 & 2 21

Would we be able to respond to Small Disadvantaged Businesses (SDB) solicitation during the period when we have graduated 8(a) but are still certified SDB under the SBA (SDB transition period)?

Ther EAGLE II contract will not have any Task Orders set aside for SDBs.

Please reference RFP Section G.4.1. See also FAQ #8.

Attachment L‐5 Subcontracting Plan Format 2. Goals 2

Subcontract Plan Format appears to call for the goals as percentages, but the instructions state "FAR 19.704(a)(1) requires separate dollar and percentage goals." Should Offeror update format to provide dollar goals ?

The EAGLE II RFP will be amended in order that the plan requests both dollars and percentages of subcontracting goals for the Base Year Period, as well as the Option Year Period.

Section L ‐ Instructions, Conditions, and Notices to Offerors L.10.2, Tab C (SB) 101

Are the Section (3) on page 101 Small Disadvantaged Participation Targets different from the DHS 40% SB subcontracting goal, which includes 5% for SDB ? If so, what are they ?

Yes, the Small Disadvantaged Business Participation Program ‐ Targets (FAR 52.219‐24) are separate and distinct from the subcontracting plan (FAR 52.219‐9). These are targets, expressed as percentages of potential contract value, for SDB participation in any of the NAICS Industry Sub‐sectors as determined by the Department of Commerce. Please see FAR 19.201(b), General Policy. The General Services Administration shall post the Department of Commerce determination at https://www.acquisition.gov/references/sdbadjustments.htm.

Response to RFP Questions: Set #1 Amendment 000002

Reference Number Section / Attachment Paragraph Page # Question / Comment Response

Section L ‐ Instructions, Conditions, and Notices to Offerors L.10.2, Tab C (SB) 101

Instructions call for signed mentor protégé agreement from DHS. Does DHS also want the underlying mentor protégé agreement or only the DHS approval letter for the mentor protégé agreement? Only the DHS approval letter.

162 Section C ‐ Statement of Work C.1.2 10 Is there anything that would preclude a qualified 8(a) company prime from also offering a proposal as prime in the "All SB" track? No, please reference RFP Section L.10.1.

Section B ‐ Supplies or Services and Prices / Costs H.18 46

Is it the Government's intent Core Team members will each be contract holders able to bid independently of the Prime? If yes, why are they a team and what is the purpose and role of the Prime?

No, core team members will not be contract holders. The contract holder will be the prime offeror.

Section H ‐ Special Contracting Requirements H.18 46

Since a Prime with Core Team members is not a Joint Venture, why are Core Team members not subcontractors? Core team members identified in the proposal are ultimately subcontractors.

Section B ‐ Supplies or Services and Prices / Costs B.4.1(d) 4

Please explain how a Core Team member is not considered a subcontractor? What is the relationship between a Prime company and Core Team member if not prime‐subcontractor? How can a Prime be ultimately responsible for contract performance if the relationship is not prime‐ subcontractor?

The Prime Offeror will have the ultimate responsibility for the contract.