LTR BAA FINAL REOPENED VERSION with Amendments.pdf

Logistics Technology Research (LTR) Program Research & Development (R&D)

Broad Agency Announcement SP4701-24-B-0001

Source Selection Information—See FAR 2.101 and 3.104

BROAD AGENCY ANNOUNCEMENT

Logistics Technology Research (LTR) Program – Research and Development

SP4701-24-B-0001

Table of Contents

INTRODUCTION.…………………………………………………….…….…..……….….. 4

SECTION 1: GENERAL INFORMATION.…….…………………….….……………..…. 4

Initial Closing for IDIQ Consideration………...………………………………………... 5 Reopening for Short Term Project (STP) Consideration…………………..…………... 6 Contract Type………………………………………………………………………………6

SECTION 2: BACKGROUND ………………………………………….……..….…..…

SECTION 3: SCOPE …………………………………………………….……..….….…

SECTION 4: PROGRAM INFORMATION ……………………….……….……..…..… 8

Research & Development Project Transition Language …………...…….………...….. 9

SECTION 5: GENERAL PROPOSAL SUBMISSION INFORMATION ………..…..…. 9

Eligibility Requirements………………………………………………………….……….10

SECTION 6: WHITE PAPER INSTRUCTIONS AND FORMAT………………….…... 10

SECTION 7: TECHNICAL PROPOSAL INSTRUCTIONS………………..……..….…. 11

Technical and Cost Proposal Format ..……………………………....….…..……....….. 11

Volume I – Technical Proposals ….…………………………………….……..….… CUI and Proprietary Markings………………..………………….….……...…… Technical Proposal Parts.………………………………………………..…….…

Volume II – Cost/Price Proposal .…………………………………………...……...…

Cost Proposal Format……………………………………………………..….……… 16

SECTION 8. EVALUATION CRITERIA FOR IDIQ AWARDS AND SHORT-TERM

PROJECTS……………………………………………………………...……………. 20

TECHNICAL EVALUATION FACTORS ……………………………………………….20

Factor 1: Feasibility …………………………………………………………………….20 Factor 2: Viability ……………………………………………..………..………… Factor 3: Desirability ……………………………………………..…………………….20 Factor 4: Past Performance/Recency.………………………..………………….….….20 Factor 5: Cost and Price …………………………………….………..…….…………..21

EVALUATION RATING SCHEME ……………………………………….……………. 21

Factor 1: Feasibility ….….……..……………………….……….…….…………… Factor 2: Viability ..…………………………………….……….…….….…….…..…. 21 Factor 3: Desirability ..………………………………….……….………..….....….…. 22 Factor 4: Past Performance, Capabilities, and Related Experience .……….……... 22 Factor 5: Cost and Price Realism ..…………………………………...……….……... 23

Overall Consensus Ratings ..……………………………………….…….……….…. 23

SECTION 9: AWARD DECISION…………………………………….………….……….. 23

SECTION 10: CLAUSES ...………………………………………………………………… 24

Intellectual Property and Data Rights ………………………………………..……….. 25 DFARS 252.227-7017 Identification and Assertion of Use, Release, or Disclosure Restrictions …………………………….……..… DFARS 252.245-7005 Management and Reporting of Government Property …...… 27 FAR 52.245-1 Government Property……………………………………………………34 FAR 52.204-24 Representation Regarding Certain Telecommunications And Video Surveillance Services or Equipment ………….…… FAR 52.204-26 Covered Telecommunications Equipment or Services Representations ………………………………………….…...….……. 47

ATTACHMENTS:

Attachment A – White Paper Template .…………………………………………..….. 48 Attachment B – Small Business Subcontracting Plans ..………………..………….… 51 Attachment C – Proposal Adequacy Checklist ..………………...……………………. 53

INTRODUCTION

PART: U.S. Government Procurements

SUBPART: Services

OFFICE ADDRESS/RECEIPT OF PROPOSALS:

DLA Contract Service Office – Philadelphia Attn: Emily Linico, Bldg. 6 700 Robbins Avenue Philadelphia, PA 19111-5092

CLASS CODE: A--Research and Development

SUBJECT: A- Logistics Technology Research (LTR) Program

INITIAL POSTING DATE: August 27, 2024

INITIAL CLOSING DATE FOR RECEIPT OF PROPOSALS: 45 DAYS; Then, BAA will re-open afterwards for receipt of White Papers for Short Term Projects

NAICS CODE: 541715 -- Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences (except Nanotechnology and Biotechnology)

SET ASIDES: N/A

SOL: SP4701-24-B-0001

POINT OF CONTACT (POC) : Emily Linico

CONTACT INFORMATION : Email: Emily.Linico@dla.mil Phone : 215-737-3748 and DCSO-P R&D Mail box RandD.DCSO@dla.mil

1. GENERAL INFORMATION

This notice constitutes a combined synopsis and Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) for the acquisition of research and development (R&D) in accordance with Federal Acquisition Regulation 35.016, “Broad agency announcement,” as supplemented with additional information included in this notice. No other solicitation will be issued. Only the information provided in this notice is available.

Requests for other forms of solicitation shall be disregarded.

The Logistics Technology Research (LTR) Program is exploring the application of emergent technologies and commercial or other innovative business practices to develop new capabilities and improved Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) processes to sustain Department of Defense (DOD) weapon systems. LTR seeks to develop and demonstrate capabilities with beneficial application across one or more DLA Major Subordinate Commands (MSCs) or HQ Process Owners.

mailto:Emily.Linico@dla.mil mailto:RandD.DCSO@dla.mil

LTR is a DLA-sponsored logistics R&D program with a mission to conduct research and development projects to provide improved capabilities and methods for delivery of parts and services to DLA’s customers. Problems addressed by LTR are usually, although not always, associated with DLA management of weapon system parts in Supply Class IX, although the R&D solutions can be deployed to additional areas of DLA’s business processes. LTR projects address problems faced by the Troop Support, Aviation, and Land and Maritime MSCs and several DLA Headquarters Process Owners.

Offerors are encouraged to propose innovative solutions within the scope of the LTR. Equal consideration will be given to all approaches that enable improved processes aligning with the DOD and DLA Director’s Strategic Initiatives.

INITIAL CLOSING FOR IDIQ CONSIDERATION

This BAA will open for a period of 45 days for the receipt of White Papers. After 45 days, the BAA will close for the review of White Papers submitted during the initial opening period. Upon the Program Management Office (PMO) request, offerors shall submit full cost and technical proposals for approved White Papers. Offerors will have 30 calendar days from the date of request to submit full cost and technical proposals. If proposals are not submitted within 30 calendar days, vendors will be considered non-responsive and removed from further consideration. Proposals submitted within the 30-day timeframe will be evaluated and considered for Indefinite Delivery Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contracts for Short Term Projects (STP)s. Offerors must submit full cost & technical proposals in order to be considered for an IDIQ contract (see Section 7: Proposal Instructions). Vendors will be notified accordingly if their White Paper or proposal is not among those selected.

White Papers and Proposals (if requested) submitted under this BAA for IDIQ consideration, shall describe a potential Short-Term Project (STP) that aligns with one of the LTR strategic focus areas outlined in Section 3: Scope, to be used by the Government for evaluation purposes. The White Paper shall be an abbreviated document (limited to 6 pages) in which a submitter describes a technical R&D concept (see Section 6: White Paper Instructions and Format). Initial offerors are encouraged to propose innovative solutions, highlighting any relevant DLA/DoD acquisition experience. Consideration will be given to all approaches that enable improved processes aligning with both DoD and DLA Strategic Initiatives. These can be found at https://www.dla.mil/Info/Strategic-Plan/ .

Although initial projects proposed in response to this BAA may result in the award of an IDIQ, a task order to execute the initial STP may or may not be issued. Each vendor who receives an IDIQ contract may be part of a working group whose purpose is to collaborate with the LTR PMO, relevant DLA stakeholders and/or other vendors to identify problems and achieve improvements with measurable results in the business processes that support the LTR program. An optional CLIN may be included in resulting task orders or contract awards for working group activities, including travel.

https://www.dla.mil/Info/Strategic-Plan/

REOPENING FOR SHORT TERM PROJECT (STP) CONSIDERATION

After the initial closing period for the award of IDIQs, the BAA will re-open for a remainder of five (5) years from the initial posting date. At that time, potential vendors who did not receive an IDIQ contract may suggest ideas for projects by submitting White Papers. Successful White Papers will identify problems and present achievable Short-Term Proposals (STPs) with measurable results in support of the LTR program. White Papers will only be accepted after the BAA is reopened. Offerors should check the SAM.gov website for the status of the BAA. If such a technical concept is deemed by the Government to be of interest, the Government may request a full cost and technical proposal (see Section 6: Proposal Instructions).

The Government reserves the right to select all, some, or none of the submitted proposals for award. The primary basis for selecting proposals for acceptance will be technical merit, relevance to agency programs, cost realism and reasonableness and funds availability.

QUESTIONS & ANSWERS

All questions regarding this solicitation should be directed by email to Emily Linico at Emily.Linico@dla.mil AND DCSO R&D RandD.DCSO@dla.mil. Questions by telephone will not be accepted. The Subject line of the email shall be “Questions, SP4701-24-B-0001”.

CONTRACT TYPE

The Government intends to award cost-type IDIQ contracts under this BAA and cost-type definitive contracts for vendors who are not awarded IDIQs. Cost-type contracts include cost-reimbursement (FAR 16.302), Cost-sharing (FAR 16.303), or cost-plus fixed fee (FAR 16.306). The Government reserves the right to award another type of contract at its sole discretion.

IDIQ contracts awarded from this BAA will be for a one-year base period and four one-year option periods. These contracts will include two Contract Line Items (CLINs); the second CLIN (Working Group) is optional and will only be utilized on a case-by-case basis:

CLIN 0001 Short Term Projects (STPs)

CLIN 0002 Optional CLIN for Working Group Activities

2. BACKGROUND

DLA seeks interested parties to collaborate with the Program Management Office (PMO) in developing enhanced DLA business processes using state-of-the-art emerging technologies and innovative business practices. The vendors who receive awards are intended to be organizations with demonstrated expertise in relevant areas of DLA business processes. LTR’s mission will be accomplished through sharply focused Short-Term Projects (STPs), typically ranging from four to 24 months in duration, that will be executed by IDIQ awardees, and possibly by other contractors, who submit project White papers after award of the initial IDIQ contracts (as described in Section 6, below).

Subject to availability of funds, a total Government investment up to $7 million per year for 5 years is planned during Fiscal Years 2024-2028. This investment will be used to fund all contracts and projects.

3. SCOPE

LTR will conduct STPs primarily, but not exclusively, in support of four DLA Key Processes: Planning, Procurement, Order Fulfillment, and Technical/Quality:

1. Planning - process includes predicting what customers will order during defined intervals, defining what parts should be ordered in response to that projected customer demand and setting minimum and maximum stockage quantities for items with customer demand that is not amenable to accurate forecasting, e.g., low, or irregular demand items.

2. Procurement - process places orders to suppliers for items in accordance with the supply plan and tracks delivery. The procurement process is central to DLA performance.

3. Order Fulfillment - process principally is focused on delivering items from suppliers or warehouses to customers when and where the items are needed. DLA maintains a system of 26 warehouses around the world that are responsible for receipt, storage, issue, packing, preservation and transportation.

4. Technical/Quality - process supports the other three processes through many different functions such as qualifying new suppliers, solving item quality problems, addressing the issues raised by counterfeit items, and assuring the availability of complete and accurate technical data to produce parts.

Emerging Technologies to Enhance Part, Component and Logistical Product Data Granularity, Availability and Interoperability Research must focus on developing solutions that support DoD’s Digital Engineering Strategy and Digital Modernization efforts for DLA by:

1. Using digital data in place of documents as the authoritative source of data;

2. Extending the model-based approach by incorporating digital engineering technologies and practices that connect business and technical data;

3. Building Digital Twin of Organization (DTO) that simulates DLA’s business processes such as Acquire to Retire (A2R) and sub-processes such as supply chain (DTSC – Digital Twin of Supply Chain) that incorporates:

a. Human behavior in the business processes;

b. Technologies such as Machine Learning (ML), Artificial Intelligence (AI), Robotic

Process Automation (RPA), etc.;

c. Real time feedback loops to not only improve routine business processes but also predict abnormal situations such as supply chain disruptions;

4. Providing a standards-based open system IT infrastructure that enables the digital thread, distributed manufacturing, advanced methods for cybersecurity, and protection of intellectual property; and

5. Preparing the workforce for change management and strategic communications necessary to transform DLA use of digital data.

STPs may address other DLA processes, such as Distribution, Supply Management, or Customer Support, so long as they fall within the Technical Area of Interest described in Section 4.

4. PROGRAM INFORMATION

LTR Structure

Each LTR Working Group will execute any R&D projects awarded to them under the guidance of the LTR Program Management Office (PMO). The LTR PMO will manage all aspects of planning, execution, and reporting of the overall LTR project portfolio, with particular attention to cost, schedule and deliverables. Each individual project will be managed by the contractor who executes that project, while the PMO will perform all coordination and management across STPs.

Working Groups

Each vendor who receives an IDIQ may be part of a working group whose purpose is to collaborate with the Government Program Manager and each other to identify problems and achieve improvements with measurable results in the business processes that support the LTR program. Each IDIQ awardee is required to bring specific technical expertise that lends itself to significant improvements to DLA processes.

Meetings

Working Group members will meet multiple times a year, as scheduled by the LTR PMO, to collaboratively support the LTR PMO’s efforts to identify problems and achievable improvements with measurable results in the business processes that support Logistics Technology Research.

LTR STPs

Working Group members will not be compensated for developing white papers for proposed STPs. LTR STPs awarded to IDIQ awardees, will be separate task orders issued under the base IDIQ. Tasks Orders issued against resultant IDIQ’s will outline tasks to be performed and applicable deliverables; tasks will only be utilized in support of established research projects. All proposals submitted for an STP are required to have a business case that specifies how success will be measured and a delineated path to implementation that addresses a specific DLA or DOD need.

Technical Area of Interest

As stated above, the LTR is exploring the application of emergent technologies and commercial or other innovative business practices to develop new capabilities and improved DLA processes to sustain DOD logistics technology. The capabilities to be developed from this effort must have beneficial application across one or more MSCs or DLA HQ Process Owners.

Project Transition The Research & Development (R&D) Program Management Office (PMO) may determine to transition an R&D project to the production environment. This determination will be made on a case-by-case basis considering contractor performance, successful demonstration of technical capability, and alignment with DLA R&D’s objectives. Prior to making the determination to transition a project, the DLA PMO will request that the contractor submit a transition plan for review. Upon review by the PMO and Contracting Office, of the transition plan if approved, the contractor will receive further instructions on submission of technical and cost proposal for the transition effort.

5. GENERAL PROPOSAL SUBMISSION INFORMATION

The following proposal submission information pertains to initial proposals submitted in response to the BAA for consideration of IDIQ awards AND proposals submitted once the BAA reopens and vendors are asked to submit proposals after the review of submitted White Papers.

Offerors may submit a STP proposal for an R&D project of their choosing that they believe is suitable for execution by LTR (to be determined by evaluation against the criteria stated below). The Government intends to award IDIQ contracts based upon evaluation of the submitted STP proposals. Proposals shall demonstrate knowledge, experience, and expertise in the Technical Area of Interest described in Section

4. Proposals must also provide information detailing past performance that demonstrates related efforts, achievements, technological aptitude, management support skill, and potential contribution and relevance to DLA’s mission. Offerors must submit full proposals in Portable Document Format (.pdf) titled “SP4701-24-B-0001”. Technical proposals shall be submitted in the following format: one electronic copy in “.pdf” format sent via email to the Contracting POC and the DCSO-P R&D Mailbox. Instructions will be provided in the SAM.gov posting.

This is an unrestricted acquisition. All responsible sources capable of satisfying the Government’s needs may submit a White Paper, which will be considered by DLA. DLA encourages small businesses, small-disadvantaged businesses (SDBs), woman-owned small businesses (WOSBs), historically underutilized business zone (HUB Zone) small businesses, veteran-owned small business (VOSBs), service-disabled veteran-owned small businesses (SDVOSBs), historically black colleges and universities, and minority institutions, and other concerns subject to socioeconomic considerations through its awards to submit White Papers under this BAA. However, no portion of this BAA will be set-aside due to the impracticality of reserving discrete or severable areas of research in this technology. For purposes of this acquisition, the small business size standard is 1000 employees, and the North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code is 541715, Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering and Life Sciences. All correspondence and questions on this BAA should be directed to the Contracting Officer POC at the top of the BAA; e-mail is preferred. Other than small business concerns will be required to submit a Small

Business Subcontracting Plan in accordance with the most recent version of FAR clause 52.219-9 at the time of proposal submission if proposal cost exceeds the $750,000.00 threshold. Proposals must remain valid 60 days from the date of submission.

Note: Small business are exempt from submitting a subcontracting plan (see subcontracting plan information in attachment B).

Businesses unfamiliar with doing business with the government and that require assistance may contact the state-specific Department of Defense (DOD) APEX Accelerators.

DOD APEX Accelerators. serve as a resource for businesses pursuing and performing under contracts with DOD, other federal agencies, state, and local governments and with government prime contractors. Assistance provided by the APEX Accelerators. are usually free of charge. APEX Accelerator support includes registration in systems such as SAM, identification of contract opportunities, understanding requirements and preparing and supporting proposals. The APEX Accelerators have a presence in each state, Puerto Rico, and Guam.

To locate a local APEX Accelerator visit:

https://www.apexaccelerators.us/

ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS

To be eligible for award, all prospective offerors must meet certain minimum standards pertaining to contractor/ subcontractor foreign affiliations, financial resources, adequacy of accounting systems, ability to comply with performance schedules, prior record of past performance, integrity, organization structure, experience, operational controls, technical skills facilities, and equipment. For additional information and guidance concerning qualifications and standards for responsibility of prospective contractors, please refer to Part 9 of the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR).

6. WHITE PAPER INSTRUCTIONS AND FORMAT

After the initial round of contracts have been awarded the Government intends to issue an amendment to reopen this BAA to allow those contractors not selected previously to submit White Papers for consideration. An announcement will be made on SAM.gov indicating when the BAA will re-open for White Paper submission. Offerors shall submit White Papers via e-mail to both of the following addresses: Emily.Linico@dla.mil and RandD.DCSO@dla.mil.

The white paper shall not exceed 6 pages. The white paper shall include:

• Project Title Chart

• Executive Summary

• Project Summary o Problem statement or opportunity description o Goals and impact o Expected outcome and benefits o Technical plan https://www.apexaccelerators.us/ o High level transition / implementation strategy o Identification of risks o Capabilities and management plan o Cost and schedule

• All proprietary claims to results, prototypes, or systems supporting and/or necessary for the use of the research, results, and/or prototypes. If there are no proprietary claims, this should be stated.

• Bibliography

Templates containing content descriptions and instructions are provided in Attachment A to this BAA.

Use of these templates is mandatory for all submissions to this BAA. Document files must be in .pdf, doc, or docx formats. All submissions must be written in English and all pages shall be formatted for printing on 8-1/2 by 11-inch paper with 1-inch margins and font size not smaller than 12-point (8 or 10-point font may be used for figures, tables, and charts). White Papers shall not exceed 6 pages (1 page cover sheet + 1-page executive summary + 4-page Project Summary).

White Papers will be reviewed to determine whether the proposed solution is technically feasible and viable (i.e., compatible with DoD constraints, technical environments, and other organizational requirements), and whether the White Paper presents a research project whose results end users are likely to adopt and that is of sufficient interest to the Government to warrant consideration of a technical proposal.

DLA may, at DLA’s sole discretion, provide the White Paper submitter an opportunity to provide additional information to assist DLA in performing the above review. Additional information submitted with the White Paper that was not requested or not in accordance with the direction in Attachment A will not be reviewed or considered. After review, the contracting officer will advise the White Paper submitter

(1) the White Paper is not presently of interest to DLA, along with rationale, or (2) the White Paper is presently of interest to DLA and the submitter is invited to submit a technical proposal.

The Government reserves the right to request technical proposals from any, all, some, or none of the offerors submitting White Papers. A request for technical proposals is not a guarantee that the proposal will ultimately be selected for award. White Papers for non-innovative and/or marginal improvements are inappropriate under this BAA and will not result in a technical proposal request.

Offerors of White Papers selected for further review will be asked to submit a technical and cost proposal as described in Section 6 – “Proposal Instructions.”

To receive an STP award after submission and evaluation of a full proposal, submitters of White Papers must meet the same “minimum standards” as stated in the BAA for proposal submission.

7. TECHNICAL PROPOSAL INSTRUCTIONS

Proposal prices and all other terms and conditions must remain valid for 180 days from the submission date of the technical proposal. Information in the technical proposal that is deemed by the offeror to be proprietary must be clearly marked as proprietary information. Proposals shall include all proprietary claims to results, prototypes, or systems supporting or necessary for the use of the research, results, or prototypes. If there are no proprietary claims, then the proposal must include a statement to that effect.

To ensure all technical proposals receive proper consideration, DLA requires all offerors to follow the same format. Technical proposals that do not conform to the format may not be evaluated and may not be eligible for award. Offerors shall submit proposals via e-mail to both of the following addresses:

Emily.Linico@dla.mil and RandD.DCSO@dla.mil . Instructions will be provided in the SAM.gov posting.

(i) TECHNICAL AND COST PROPOSAL FORMATS

• Technical Proposal General Information (see Volume I for more information) o Shall describe the proposed STP and address the Evaluation Factors for STPs as contained in this BAA.

o Proposals MUST be submitted in the following format and provide the content requested in Section 8 “Evaluation Criteria for IDIQ Awards and Short-Term Projects” of this BAA. Each page of the proposal shall be marked “Source Selection Information—See FAR 2.101 and 3.104.” In addition, all material that may be procurement sensitive or defense covered information should be marked with the legend “Controlled Unclassified Information” (CUI). If the information is also source selection information, both markings must be present.

• Cost/Price Proposal General Information (see Volume II for more information) o Shall contain cost and pricing information in support of Volume I technical project.

o Cost/Price information shall include breakout of cost elements as provided for in the Cost Realism evaluation factor in Section 6 of this BAA.

• NO pricing information shall be contained in the technical proposal.

Volume I – Technical Proposals:

• Technical proposals shall be submitted in the following format: one electronic copy in “.pdf” format sent via email to the Contracting POC and the DCSO-P R&D Mailbox

To ensure all technical proposals receive proper consideration, DLA requires all offerors to follow the same format. Technical proposals must meet the following format requirements:

(1) Document files must be written in English and in .pdf formats.

(2) No more than twenty (20) single-sided pages including, body, appendices, and attachments.

(3) Formatting for printing on 8-1/2 by 11-inch paper with 1-inch margins and font size not smaller than 12-point Times New Roman font (8 or 10-point font may be used for figures, tables, and charts).; and

(4) Header and footer on each page to identify page content, page number, CUI markings, and source selection authority. See sections CUI and proprietary markings for technical proposals.

Any project Gantt charts may be submitted on larger pages (e.g., legal size), as required to be readable.

There is no penalty for submitting a technical proposal of less than 20 pages if the technical proposal covers all the required material. Resumes and certifications for technical data and computer software will not be counted as part of the 20-page limit. Technical proposals must be clear and concise and must include sufficient detail to substantiate the validity of the research. Technical proposals must address the evaluation factors provided in Section 8, Evaluation Criteria for Contracts. No cost or pricing information may be contained in the technical proposal.

Offerors must assume that DLA has no prior knowledge of their facilities and experience, and DLA will base its evaluation exclusively on the merits and content of the information presented in the technical proposal, except that DLA reserves the right to evaluate relevant past performance that is not included in the technical proposal.

CUI Markings

Information in the technical proposal that is deemed by the offeror to be proprietary must be clearly marked as proprietary information. Research & Development is considered CUI. In accordance with the Department of Defense (DoD) phased CUI Program, any form of communication or documentation containing CUI must carry the appropriate markings, i.e., header and footer identifying the document as “CUI” and a completed CUI Designation Indicator. Document as follows:

CUI marking to be centered as header on page 1 of Offeror’s proposal:

CUI

Information to be placed on page two, lower right side of Offeror’s proposal:

Controlled by: Offeror’s Name CUI Category: SSEL Distribution/Dissemination Controls: Offeror’s Name POC: Offeror’s POC Information (Email address, and phone number

Information to place as footer on Offeror’s proposal:

Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI)

Source Selection Information – See FAR 2.101 and 3.104

Proprietary Markings

(1) Proposals shall include all proprietary claims to results, prototypes, or systems supporting or necessary for the use of the research, results, or prototypes. If there are no proprietary claims, then the proposal must include a statement to that effect. Do not put proprietary data or markings in the Statement of Work (SOW). Proposals containing data that is not to be disclosed to the public for any purpose or used by the Government except for review purposes shall include the following sentences in accordance with FAR 52.215-1e (1) and (2) on the cover page) Mark the title page with the following: proprietary legend:

This proposal includes data that shall not be disclosed outside the Government and shall not be duplicated, used, or disclosed-in whole or in part-for any purpose other than to evaluate this proposal. If, however, a contract is awarded to this offeror as a result of-or in connection with-the submission of this data, the Government shall have the right to duplicate, use, or disclose the data to the extent provided in the resulting contract. This restriction does not limit the Government's right to use information contained in this data if it is obtained from another source without restriction. The data subject to this restriction are contained in sheets [insert numbers or other identification of sheets]; and

(2) Mark each sheet of data it wishes to restrict with the following legend:

Use or disclosure of data contained on this sheet is subject to the restriction on the title page of this proposal.

Technical proposals shall consist of four parts:

Part 1 — Proposal Cover Sheet Part 2 — Executive Summary Part 3 — Feasibility, Viability, and Desirability Part 4 — Past Performance, Recency, Capabilities, and Related Experience

Part 1 – Proposal Cover Sheet

(1) BAA number; (2) Proposal Title; (3) Technical Point of Contact, including name, telephone number, , email address, and mailing address; (4) Administrative/Contracting Point of Contact, including name, telephone number, , email address, and mailing address; and (5) Contractor's business type selected among the following categories: Large Business, Small Disadvantaged Business (SDB), Other Small Business, HBCU, MI, Other Educational, or Other Nonprofit.

Part 2: Executive Summary An Executive Summary of the Offeror's entire technical proposal in one page or less is required. This summary shall be used to gain an understanding of the overall proposal contents. It should identify and highlight significant features, summarize innovative claims and unique contribution(s) of the proposal, and include the salient points of the proposed project, and the expected outcome improvement associated with the project.

Part 3: Feasibility, Viability, and Desirability Offerors must explain the proposed research project and methodology in sufficient detail to establish the feasibility, viability, and desirability of accomplishing the research.

Feasibility – solution to problem statement is technically possible. The technology exists or is likely to be developed in the scope of the proposed effort. An example of something that is not feasible is a “Star Trek” transporter.

Viability – solution to problem statement is compatible with DOD constraints, technical environments, and other organizational requirements. DOD could easily adopt the proposed solution. An example of something which is not viable is a technology that has no chance of passing DOD cyber security requirements; and

Desirability – solution is responsive to a problem statement. End users are likely to adopt the proposed solution. Examples of something that is not desirable are (i) a piece of field equipment that is so uncomfortable to carry that end users refuse to bring it into the field and

(ii) a feasible, viable technology that does not meet the problem that end users are trying to solve.

Part 4: Past Performance, Recency, Capabilities, and Related Experience

Section–1 - Work Experience: Offerors must provide information pertaining to prior significant and related research, work experience, or expertise for the proposed research. The information must include an explanation of how this experience or expertise will be beneficial to the proposed research. Offerors must identify no more than five contracts along with the performance period and a brief performance history for each contract within the last three years for which they have provided services and/or supplies of a nature that is consistent with the Area of Interest and relevant to the proposed research. Contractors must also list any previous contracts that have been terminated for cause and the reasons. When reporting contract information please include the proposed award dollar value of the contract and the dollar value at completion.

Section–2 - Points of Contact: Offerors must provide point of contact information for each of the contracts identified in response to Part 4, Section 1 above including the company name, points of contact names, e-mail addresses, and phone numbers.

Section 3 – Contractor Teaming Arrangements: State whether contractor teaming arrangement experience relevant to the proposal exists. Where related work was performed with teaming partners. Offerors must also provide points of contact of team members, including company name, individual names, e-mail addresses, and phone numbers.

Section–4 - Bibliography: Offerors must include a bibliography of relevant technical papers and research, published and unpublished, which documents the technical ideas upon which the research is based.

Volume II – Cost/Price Proposal:

No page limits apply to the Cost Proposal. The cost proposal shall include total project cost by month. The offeror shall also give a detailed breakdown of the total project costs by each task listed in the technical proposal. If subcontracts are contemplated, the offeror must estimate the total amount of effort to be subcontracted and specify the “burden” or “pass through rate” that will be applied to those subcontracts.

Offerors are required to submit certification of current cost or pricing data in accordance with FAR 15.406- 2 (Certificate of Current Cost or Pricing Data). The total cost of each major cost element and the make-up of those costs shall be presented in the offeror's proposal. A statement related to the latest DCAA audit and whether the offeror’s accounting system has been approved by the DCAA shall be included in the Cost Proposal. State if there are currently negotiated DCAA rates or forward pricing rate agreements and factors being used in the proposal. Include a detailed breakdown of costs by cost category by offeror's calendar or fiscal year:

• Direct Labor - Individual labor categories or person with associated labor hours and unburdened direct labor rates

• Indirect Costs - Fringe benefit, Overhead, G&A, Cost of Money, etc. (must show base amount and rate)

• Travel - Number of trips, destinations, durations, purpose, etc.

• Subcontracts - A cost proposal is required to be submitted by any proposed subcontractor and

“burden” or “pass through rate” shall be clearly stated.

• Materials - Specifically itemized with estimated (or actual) costs.

• ease Items - Fair market value of lease items and the method used for making such evaluations

Sufficient information shall be provided in supporting documents to evaluate the reasonableness and realism of these proposed costs. Additionally, a completed Cost Proposal Adequacy Checklist (Attachment C) shall be included with each proposal submission.

Cost Proposal Format

To ensure all cost proposals receive proper consideration, DLA requires all offerors to follow the same format. Cost proposals that do not conform to the format may not be evaluated or be eligible for award.

Offerors shall submit cost proposals within 30 calendar days of contracting officer’s request in the following format: (1) 8.5" x 11”-page size; (2) a header on each page to identify page content and page number; and (3) type font 12-point Times New Roman with 1-inch margins around the page. No page limits apply to cost proposals. The cost proposal must reflect an understanding of the research, perception of risks, and ability to organize and perform the task(s) stated in the technical proposal. Offerors shall submit the following information:

Part 1 – Overview Part 2 - Cost or Pricing Data (certified when requested by the Contracting Officer) Part 3 - Work Breakdown Structure Part 4 – Proposal Adequacy Checklist (Attachment A)

Part 1 – Overview

a. Cost Proposal Cover Sheet: Offerors shall provide the following information:

(1) BAA Number

(2) NAICS code

(3) BAA Area(s) of Interest from Section 4 above

(4) Offeror’s Technical Point of Contact, including name, telephone number, e-mail address, and mailing address (no post office box)

(5) Offeror’s Administrative/Contracting Point of Contact, including name, telephone number, e-mail address, and mailing address (no post office box)

(6) Contractor’s business type selected among the following categories: Large

Business, Small Disadvantaged Business (SDB), Other Small Business, HBCU, MI, Other Educational, or Other Nonprofit.

(7) CAGE Code

(8) Subcontractors participating in the research and estimated cost (if none state “not applicable”)

(9) Small businesses participating in the research and estimated cost (if none state “not applicable”)

(10) Historically Black Colleges and Universities or Minority Institutions participating in the research (if none state “not applicable”) Performance Period

(11) Contract type selected from one of the cost-reimbursement contract types.

(12) Research title

(13) Brief research description

(14) Total Estimated Cost

(15) Fixed Fee Amount - the fee shall not exceed 10% of the estimated cost (if proposal is for a cost-plus-fixed-fee contract).

b. Accounting System

Offerors shall provide a description of the accounting system proposed for this research and a copy of accounting system approval from Defense Contract Audit Agency (DCAA) or the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).

c. Approved Rates

Offerors shall provide a statement regarding current negotiated DCAA or HHS rates, factors, forward pricing agreements, and/or other related cost factors and considerations being used in the cost proposal.

d. Audit or Forward Pricing Agreement

Offerors shall provide a copy of the latest audit or forward pricing agreement from DCAA or HHS.

Part 2 – Certified Cost or Pricing Data and Data Other Than Certified Cost or Pricing Data

Offerors shall submit certified cost or pricing data when requested by the contracting officer to support a determination of cost realism for cost proposals with a total estimated value of $2,000,000.00 or more in accordance with FAR 15.403-4. If the total estimated value is under $2,000,000.00, offerors shall submit data other than certified cost or pricing data to support a determination of cost realism in accordance with FAR 15.403-3. Offerors shall submit data in accordance with FAR 52.215-20 Requirements for Certified Cost or Pricing Data and Data Other Than Certified Cost or Pricing Data.

Offerors shall submit certified cost or pricing data, data other than certified cost or pricing data, and supporting attachments in accordance with the instructions contained in Table 15-2 of FAR 15.408.

Offerors shall submit subcontractors’ certified cost or pricing data, data other than certified cost or pricing data, and supporting attachments. If the subcontractor will not submit this information to the offerors, this information must be submitted directly to the contracting officer for cost realism analysis.

Part 3 – Work Breakdown Structure

Offerors shall submit a detailed work breakdown structure including all costs in a table format for all research tasks. Offerors shall include at a minimum, the costs cited above.

Part 4 – Proposal Adequacy Checklist regarding Cost and Pricing Information

Sufficient information should be provided in supporting documents to evaluate the reasonableness and realism of the proposed costs. A cost proposal adequacy checklist from DFARS 252-215-7009, has been included an Attachment to the BAA for guidance (See Attachment C).

Cost Realism Analysis

DLA will perform a cost realism analysis on cost proposals in accordance with FAR 15.404-1(d), Cost Realism Analysis. Realism determination will be based on an evaluation of the cost proposal to determine whether the estimated cost elements are realistic for the proposed research; reflect a clear understanding of the applicable BAA Strategic Focus Areas and are consistent with the proposal research plan.

a. Labor Mix and Indirect Costs

Offerors are required to provide their proposed labor rates and total cost for each labor category. In addition, offerors are required to provide applicable indirect cost rates, which should include, but may not be limited to, G&A, Fringe, Overhead, and Sub-contractor “burden” or “pass through rate.” Offerors are additionally required to provide labor category descriptions that include minimum education, experience, and certification requirements.

• Direct Labor: Individual labor categories or person with associated labor hours and unburdened direct labor rates.

• Indirect Costs: Fringe benefit, Overhead, G&A, etc. (must show base amount and rate)

• Travel: Estimated number of trips, destinations, durations, etc.

• Subcontracts: A cost proposal is required to be submitted for any proposed subcontractor, and

“burden” or “pass through rate” shall be clearly stated.

• Materials: Specifically itemize and identify as estimated or actual costs.

Cost proposals shall include the following summary tables in addition to the vendor’s other cost proposal information:

Labor Category (identify)

Hours Unburdened Labor Rate

Overhead G&A Burdened Labor Rate

Totals:

Indirect Costs (%) Indirect Cost Rate

1. G&A

2. Overhead

3. Fringe

4. Subcontractor Burden Rate

8. EVALUATION CRITERIA FOR IDIQ AWARDS AND SHORT-TERM PROJECTS

In evaluating technical proposals, the non-price factors are considered significantly more important than price. In evaluating, Technical Factors 1, 2 and 3, are equally weighted and, when combined are more important than Factors 4 and 5, either separately or combined. Between Factors 4 and 5, Factor 4 is more important.

The Government will evaluate technical proposals in accordance with this section through a peer or scientific review process. Technical proposals will be evaluated for an overall technical capability that is feasible, viable, and desirable and describes a project that provides a solution in an Area of Interest listed in Section 4. Technical evaluation factors are as follows:

TECHNICAL EVALUATION FACTORS

Factor #1: Feasibility. How technically feasible is the proposed solution to an Area of Interest listed in Section 4, given the state of technology and science. The offeror must explain the proposed research project and methodology in sufficient detail to establish that the proposed technical approach is innovative, possible, and comprehensive, and that the proposed qualified personnel proposed for the project/task have the expertise and experience to accomplish the proposed tasks. Task descriptions and associated technical elements must be complete and in a logical sequence with all proposed deliverables clearly defined and directed toward a final outcome that achieves the proposed goal(s). The proposal must identify major technical risks and present clearly defined and feasible mitigation efforts.

Factor #2: Viability. How viable for adoption and production is the proposed solution to an Area of Interest listed in Section 4, given existing organizational and regulatory constraints and restraints. The offeror must show how effort’s results would likely transition into an operational capability and demonstrate an understanding of working with DLA and DoD and of relevant DLA and DoD policy.

Information technology proposed must address cybersecurity requirements and show awareness of specific requirements (e.g., FedRAMP) for IT in the Federal Government, DoD, and DLA.

Factor #3: Desirability. How desirable to the final and eventual end-user is the proposed solution to an Area of Interest listed in Section 4. The offeror must show proposed solution characteristics (low barriers to transition, simplicity, ease of use, physical dimensions, etc.) makes DLA end user adoption of the solution likely.

Factor #4: Past Performance/Recency. How likely is the offeror to successfully accomplish the proposed work given the offeror’s recent (within three years prior to the date the BAA is posted on SAM) and relevant (within the scope of the Area of Interest listed in Section 4) Past Performance. In evaluating Past Performance, the Government may use information gained from any source. In the case of an offeror without a record of relevant past performance or for whom information on past performance is not available, the offeror will not be evaluated favorably or unfavorably on past performance.

Factor #5: Cost and Price. How realistic are the costs or prices being proposed and are all costs and prices fair and reasonable.

Evaluation Rating Scheme Proposals will be assigned a rating based on the adjectival ratings below.

Factor 1 – Feasibility

Acceptable (A): Response demonstrates that the proposed technical approach is reasonably innovative, feasible, and complete and that the proposed qualified personnel proposed for the project/task have adequate expertise and experience to accomplish the proposed tasks. Technical elements are reasonably complete and in a logical sequence and proposed deliverables are directed toward a final outcome that achieves the proposed goals. Probability of success is reasonable as the offeror’s response includes strengths and weaknesses. Any weaknesses identified in the offeror’s response are not substantial enough to adversely impact offeror’s strengths and may be corrected through negotiations or clarifications. No deficiencies are identified in the response.

Not Acceptable (NA): Response demonstrates generally an unsatisfactory technical approach in terms of innovation, feasibility and completeness. The technical elements are less complete and the sequence is less logical and the proposed deliverables have a low probability to achieve the proposed goals.

Response may contain some strengths, but probability of success is low as the offeror’s response contains significant weaknesses or deficiencies that are unlikely to be corrected through negotiations or clarifications.

Factor 2 – Viability

Acceptable (A): The proposed effort is viable and somewhat likely to transition into an operational capability. The offeror demonstrates a reasonable understanding of working with DLA and DoD and of relevant DLA and DoD policy. Response may contain strengths. Weaknesses of the offeror’s response, where and if applicable, are not substantial enough to conversely impact offeror’s strengths. Weaknesses identified may be corrected through negotiations or clarifications. No deficiencies are identified in the response.

Not Acceptable (NA): Viability of the proposed effort is questionable and it is not likely to transition into an operational capability. The offeror demonstrates little or no understanding of working with DLA and DoD and of relevant DLA and DoD policy. Response may contain some strengths, but identified significant weaknesses and/or deficiencies are determined as having a critical impact on successfully fulfilling the Government’s requirement.

Factor 3 – Desirability

Acceptable (A): The proposed solution offers some evidence of benefits to DLA and has characteristics such as low barriers to transition, simplicity, ease of use, physical dimensions, etc. that make it somewhat likely to be adopted by DLA and industry. Response may contain strengths. Weaknesses of the offeror’s response, where and if applicable, are not substantial enough to conversely impact offeror’s strengths. Weaknesses identified may be corrected through negotiations or clarifications. No deficiencies are identified in the response.

Not Acceptable (NA): The proposed solution offers little or no evidence of benefits to DLA and has few or no characteristics that make it somewhat likely to be adopted by DLA and industry. Response may contain some strengths, but identification of significant weaknesses and/or deficiencies are determined as having a critical impact on successfully fulfilling the Government’s requirement.

Factor 4 – Past Performance/Recency

Acceptable (A): Response demonstrates generally satisfactory experience which is relevant to an area of research interest in the BAA.