N3220517Q4930_Question_and_Answers_2-JNS.docx

N3220517Q4930 Question and Answers 2

Question 2:

On page 42 of 79 clause 52.212-2 states that “Lowest Price Technically Acceptable (LPTA) evaluation methods will be utilized for this procurement.” Section 813 of the 2017 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) stipulates that LPTA is appropriate only when, among other criteria, “the proposed technical approaches will require no, or minimal, subjective judgment by the source selection authority (SSA) as to the desirability of one offeror's proposal versus a competing proposal;” ASD AT&L and ASN RDA have both directed a reduction in the use of LPTA in recent policy guidance. While the individual components of the IBS are largely off-the-shelf commercial items, the design and systems engineering processes involved in integration of those components, the integration of the complete IBS into the existing ship systems and subsequent testing and verification are very complex endeavors. We believe these elements of the proposal will require significant subjective examination of the approach, capabilities and experience of the various offerors.

Would the Government consider changing the evaluation approach from LPTA to a “Best Value” approach?

Answer 2:

The Government believes LPTA is the best way to procure these services.

Question 3:

The Solicitation on page 11 of 42 has a Table named OPNAV Approved ECDIS Systems.

Does this list restrict the ECDIS system selected to only the seven systems shown, or is it possible that other IMO approved systems could be selected for use?

Answer 3:

MSC is willing to evaluate another ECDIS system. But the system must meet all of the MSC, IMO, USCG regulations and resolutions and also be approved by OPNAV. At this time only those on the list have gone through this vetting process.

Question 4:

In RFP paragraph 9.1 page 29 it states that Key Personnel are the Project Manager, Lead Design Engineer, Lead Systems Analyst, and Lead Service/Installation Engineer are considered Key Personnel and the RFP gives position requirements for them.

In RFP Sub factor 3 Personnel page 39 it states Offerors shall provide resumes for all Key Personnel (project manager, lead electrical engineer, quality assurance engineer) and those personnel who will fill major technical roles based on the technical approach to performing the contract.

Will you please clarify the Key Personnel positions and resume requirements for this RFP.

Answer 4:

The key personnel are those stated in 9.1. Resumes should be submitted that show their time in industry, education, and work experience.

Question 5:

The solicitation lists the NAICS Code as 541330 and the small business size standard as $15,000,000. While the default size standard for small business under 541330 is $15,000,000, exception C specifies a size standard of $38,500,000 for "Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering". The integration of a bridge/navigation system into existing ship systems, along with the attendant modifications to supporting systems such as ship structure, electrical power and HVAC, lies firmly in the category of Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering. Would the Government consider changing the size standard to $38,500,000 under exception C to NAICS Code 541330?

Answer 5:

The Government concurs with the size standard interpretation of $38,500,000.00 for this procurement.