SOW_IG_Investigation_OGC_2013_Response_to_Questions.doc.docx

MSPB-RFP-14-001

Investigation Responses to Questions

Q. Paragraph 1 of the Scope of Work states that "The contractor will provide the services of one or more investigators to conduct an assessment of allegations…" Are these services to be provided in internal investigations of the MSPB, are they to be provided in support of MSPB external investigations, or are they to be provided in support of both internal and external investigations?

A. Internal investigations.

Q. Would the investigation be conducted in Washington, D.C.?

A. Yes, the investigation would be conducted in Washington, DC.

Q. Could the contractor be physically present for the witness interviews but conduct document reviews, briefings, etc. remotely?

A. The document can be reviewed remotely.

Q. Does the government want a firm price bid or a bid on an hourly basis?

A. Refer to the RFP.

Q. How many hours of investigatory time does the government anticipate being spent on this matter?

A. Unknown

Q. Does the government require that the contractor have more than one investigator?

A. The government requires sufficient qualified and disinterested investigators to meet its deadlines.

Q. Does the investigator need to have more than a basic level understanding of accounting and financial principles?

A. Yes. The investigator must have a practical understanding of the procurement and budgeting requirements applicable to Title 5 federal agencies.

Q. Is this a one time job or is there a possibility that the selected contractor would be working on future investigations?

A. One time job.

Q. Will the contractor be completely independent from MSPB, or would the contractor be working at the direction of MSPB? Will all work be done in DC or will travel be required?

A. The contractor will be conducting an independent investigation while working within the parameters set by MSPB. All work will be done in DC.

Q. What would OGC’s role be in the investigation? Would OGC be providing legal assistance to the investigative team, or would the investigative team be required to obtain their own legal assistance. For example, will the legal and other standards which form the basis of making any conclusions about gross management, gross waste of funds and abuse of management authority be provided to the investigators or will you be relying on the legal team of investigators to establish these guidelines in accordance with prevailing laws, regulations and case law etc.?

Q. Is there an incumbent firm? Can you provide the name of the incumbent?

A. No.

Q. Can you provide a few more details about the allegation:

· Has OGC already received or obtained documentation related to the allegation?

· Did the allegation reference specific violations, or just general, broad violations?

· Does the allegation relate to employees/management of the MSPB, or is another Federal agency that is the subject of the allegations.

· Does MSPB anticipate that the contractor would have access to the complainant(s)?

· Is there more than one complainant?

· Does MSPB anticipate that computer/digital evidence would be available to the selected contractor?

· Is the allegation more financial in nature (misuse of funds, procurement violations,) or HR in nature (adverse employment actions)?

A. No more details will be provided about the allegation prior to award.

Q. Would MSPB consider a teaming arrangement, such as a forensic accounting firm teaming with a law firm?

A. An award will be granted to a single qualified vendor.

Q. Do you anticipate that the persons who participate in the investigations will be required to testify before a court of law, administrative tribunal, or any other entity?

A. It is possible, but not anticipated, that the persons who participate in the investigation will be required to testify before a court of law, administrative tribunal, or other entity.

Q. Will the investigations be confined to fact finding or will there be any requirements to make recommendations on remedial action?

Q. To allow time for responses to the questions, would MSPB consider extending the due date for the proposal by one week to January 31?

A. Time will not be extended.