NIH-NIDDK-2017-6.pdf

U.S. Department of Health & Human Services

National Institutes of Health

NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF DIABETES AND DIGESTIVE

AND KIDNEY DISEASES (NIDDK)

Request for Quotations

“Short Term Research Experience for Underrepresented Persons Program (STEP UP)”

NIH-NIDDK-2017-6

Administered by the Office of Acquisitions, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD)

March 30, 2017

This is a combined synopsis/solicitation for commercial items prepared in accordance with the format in FAR 12.6 as supplemented with additional information included in this notice. This announcement constitutes the only solicitation and a separate written solicitation will not be issued. This solicitation number is NIH-NICHD-16-081 and is issued as a Request for Quotation (RFQ). The solicitation/contract will include all applicable provisions and clauses in effect through Federal Acquisition Circular 2005 – 89. The North American Industry Classification (NAICS) Code is 541611 and the business size standard is $6.5M. This acquisition is being conducted using Simplified Acquisition Procedures in accordance with FAR Part 13.

CHAPTER B – CONTINUATION OF SF 1449

SECTION A – EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

A.1 TYPE OF CONTRACT

The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Disease at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) intends to award a single Time and Materials (T&M) Contract from this solicitation for commercial services under Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) Part 13 – Simplified Acquisition Procedures.

A.2 CONTRACT TERM

The contract period of this contract shall not exceed sixty (60) months. There will be a 12-month Base Period; plus four (4) twelve-month option periods that the government (NIDDK) shall have the unilateral right to exercise upon its determination of need and availability of funds. It shall also be understood that in accordance with federal appropriations that in the event that adequate funding to support an entire 12-month contract period that the contractor/vendor and government shall bilaterally modify the subsequent period of performance prior to the government unilaterally exercising the option period. The total contract performance period shall not exceed six

(6) months following the expiration of the contract in accordance with FAR Clause 52.216, incorporated by reference in Chapter C, Part 1.

A.3 CONTRACT COVERAGE

The purpose of the resulting contract is for a contractor to provide evaluation support for NIDDK’s Short Term Research Experience for Underrepresented Persons Program (STEP-UP). Uniquely poised to launch a renewal of the STEP-UP initiative (RFA-16-021, (http://grants.nih.gov/grants/guide/rfa-files/RFA-DK-16-021.html), NIDDK proposes a comprehensive and coordinated retrospective and forward-looking analysis of the STEP-UP program encompassing past participants and coordinating centers that participated in the program during the years 2002 to 2016; in addition to developing an evaluation framework for monitoring and analysis of the program as it moves forward. This acquisition is designed to assist in the design and implementation of this evaluation to provide a snapshot of previous cohorts and provide the structure and support for ongoing analysis and evaluation of the program moving forward. In analyzing past participants of the STEP-UP program, the purpose it is to do a point in time outcome evaluation of where the participants are now with a focus of whether the applicants have completed degrees in science related fields and if the participants have persisted in the biomedical workforce. In developing the evaluation framework for the ongoing analysis, the purpose is to develop validated quantitative tools to be used in coordination with NIDDK staff for implementation and analysis of the program going forward.

Contract coverage for the support/services shall be expected in the following related tasks:

Task 1: Management and Administration Task 2: Program Evaluation Projects and Evaluation Preparation Task 3: Program Evaluation Implementation and Reporting Task 4: Transition

(End of Chapter B, Section A)

SECTION B - SUPPLIES OR SERVICES AND PRICES/COSTS

(CONTINUATION OF SF 1449, BLOCK 20)

B.1 GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF SERVICES

The Contractor shall assist the NIDDK OMHRC staff in the planning and implementation of the evaluation of the STEP-UP. The main focus of this support is to develop a comprehensive analysis of outcomes and developing a framework for continuing evaluation of the program moving forward.

The Vendor shall work independently, and not as an agent of the Government to furnish services, qualified personnel, material, equipment, and facilities not otherwise provided by the Government as described in Section C of the solicitation.

B.2 METHOD OF ACQUISITION

This requirement is being solicited in accordance with the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) procedures set forth at Part 13, Simplified Acquisition Procedures requiring a statement of work.

B.3 CONTRACT TYPE

It is anticipated that a single award shall be made from this solicitation and that the effective award date will be on or about May 4, 2017. It is contemplated that the award shall be a Time and Materials type contract. It is also anticipated that award from this solicitation will consist of a 12-month Base period to be followed (if unilaterally exercised) by four 12-month option period(s) for a maximum period of performance of sixty (60) months.

B.4 PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE

The Period of Performance of the contract shall be for a Base Period of 12 months with four 12-month option periods. It is anticipated that the Base period will start on or about May 4, 2017. Schedule of performance shall be as follows:

BASE PERIOD (12 – Months): July 1, 2017 through June 30, 2018 Option Period #1 (12 – Months): July 1, 2018 through June 30, 2019 Option Period #2 (12 – Months): July 1, 2019 through June 30, 2020 Option Period #3 (12 – Months): July 1, 2020 through June 30, 2021 Option Period #4 (12 – Months): July 1, 2021 through June 30, 2022

B.5 CLAUSES INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE

The contract shall incorporate the following additional Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) clauses by reference, with the same force and effect as if they were given in full text. Upon request, the Contracting Officer shall make the full text available. In addition, the full text of a FAR clause may be accessed electronically at www.arnet.gov/far/.

• FAR 52.204-9, Personal Identity Verification of Contractor Personnel (Sep 2007)

• FAR 52.212-4, Contract Terms and Conditions-Commercial Items (Feb 2007), Alternate I

• FAR 52.227-17, Rights in Data-Special Works (Dec 2007) supersedes FAR 52.227-14 Rights in Data

General (Dec 2007) (See subection I (i) )

• FAR 52.237-3, Continuity of Services (Jan 1991)

• FAR 52.239-1, Privacy and Security Safeguards (August 1996)

• FAR 52.246-6, Inspection of Services – Time and Materials (August 1996) http://www.arnet.gov/far/

The contract will also incorporate the following Department of Health and Human Services Regulation (HHSAR) Clause by reference, with the same force and effect as if they were given in full text. Upon request, the Contracting Officer will make the respective clauses full text available. In addition, the full text of a HHSAR clause may be accessed electronically at www.os.hhs.gov/oamp/dap/hhsar.html.

• HHSAR 352.224-70, Confidentiality of Information (January 2006)

• HHSAR 352.270-5, Key Personnel (January 2006)

B.6 OPTION CONSIDERATIONS (In the event the government chooses to award a contract with options as it is intended, the following section shall be incorporated)

a) The contract will incorporate the following additional Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) clause by reference, as a provision with the same force and effect as if they were given in full text. Upon request, the Contracting Officer will make their full text available. In addition, the full text of a FAR clause may be accessed electronically at www.arnet.gov/far/.

• FAR 52.217-6, Option for Increased Quantity (March 1989)

The second sentence is revised to read as follows:

“The Contracting Officer may exercise the option by written notice to the Contractor (Vendor) within 30 days prior to the expiration date of the contract period.”

• FAR 52.217-9, Option to Extend the Term of the Contract (March 2000)

Part (a) is revised to read as follows:

“(a) The Government may extend the term of this contract by written notice to the Contractor within the period of performance of this contract; provided that the Government gives the Contractor (Vendor) a preliminary written notice of its intent at least thirty (30) days prior to the contract expiration date.”

Part (c) is revised to read as follows:

“(c) The total duration of this contract, including the exercise of any options under this clause, shall not exceed sixty (60) months.”

b) Evaluation of Options: It is anticipated that any delivery order awarded from this RFQ will contain option provision(s) and period(s). The Government will evaluate quotations for award purposes by adding the total price for the basic requirement, except when it is determined in accordance with FAR 17.206(b) not to be in the Government’s best interest. Evaluation of options will not obligate the Government to exercise the option(s).

B.7 COMMITMENT OF PUBLIC FUNDS

The Contracting Officer is the only individual who can legally commit the Government to the expenditure of public funds in connection with the proposed acquisition. Any other commitment, either explicit or implied, is invalid.

http://www.os.hhs.gov/oamp/dap/hhsar.html http://www.arnet.gov/far/

B.8 COMMUNICATIONS PRIOR TO AWARD

Offerors shall direct all communications and correspondence to the attention of:

Ms. April N. Martin, Contract Specialist ASB, Office of Acquisitions/NICHD 6710B Rockledge Drive, Room 1165B, MSC 7000 Bethesda, Maryland 20892 - 7000 Fax: 301-480-3318 Email: april.martin@nih.gov

Communications with other officials may compromise the integrity and competitiveness of this acquisition and may result in rejection of your organization’s quotation.

B.9 AWARD CONSIDERATIONS

The Government intends to award a single Time and Materials contract as a result of this solicitation. The Government reserves the right to make award without discussions if deemed in the best interest and overall value of the Government after technical evaluation of all quotations received.

B.10 OTHER CONSIDERATIONS

1) Preparation Costs: This RFQ does not commit the Government to pay for the preparation and submission of a quote.

2) Authorized Official: All quotes must be signed by an official authorized to bind your organization and must stipulate that it is predicated upon all the terms and conditions of this RFQ. The quotes shall be certified as valid for a minimum of 120 days from the due date.

3) Rights in Data: The contractor agrees that upon completion (or termination with or without cause) of this contract, it shall have no property or possessor rights to any of the information of whatever kind or description, whether developed or prepared by it or furnished to it by the Government in connection with the performance of the contract; and that upon demand, it shall surrender immediately to the Contracting Officer such items, matters, materials and copies.

The Contractor shall not provide any Government information of whatever kind or description in any form to sources not authorized by the Government, during or after performance of this contract, without prior written approval of the Contracting Officer and the Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR).

All data/information first produced as a result of performing under this award shall become the Federal Government’s property and the Contractor shall surrender any and all rights to its ownership. To this end, the Contractor hereby agrees to accept the terms and conditions of Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) clause 52.227-17, Rights in Data – Special Works (June 1987) will be incorporated in the award by reference.

For purposes of this award, the FAR 52.227-17, Rights in Data – Special Works (Dec 2007) clause supersedes the following FAR clause: FAR 52.227-14, Rights in Data – General (Dec 2007).

4) Non-Personal Services and Inherently Governmental Functions: Pursuant to FAR 37.1, no personal services shall be performed under this award. All work requirements shall flow only from the COR to the Contractor’s Project Manager. No Contractor employee will be directly supervised by the Government. All mailto:april.martin@nih.gov individual employee assignments, and daily work direction, shall be given by the applicable contractor supervisor.

Pursuant to FAR 7.5, the Contractor shall not perform any inherently governmental actions under this award. No Contractor employee shall hold him or herself out to be a Government employee, agent or representative. No Contractor employee shall state orally or in writing at any time that he or she is acting on behalf of the Government. In all communications with third parties in connection with this award, Contractor employees shall identify themselves as Contractor employees and/or consultants specify the name of the company for which they are employed.

The Contractor shall ensure that all of its employees working in this award are informed of the substance of this section. Nothing in this section shall limit the Government’s rights in any way under the provisions of this award, including those related to the Government’s right to inspect and accept the service to be performed under this award. The substance of this article shall be included in all subcontracts at any tier.

(End of Chapter B, Section B)

SECTION C – TECHNICAL REQUIREMENTS

(CONTINUATION OF SF 1449, BLOCK 20)

C. GENERAL/STATEMENT OF WORK

C.1. BACKGROUND

In 2002, the Short Term Research Experience for Underrepresented Persons Program (STEP-UP) was established to build and sustain a biomedical, behavioral, clinical and social science research pipeline focused on National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) mission areas. The STEP-UP program is operated and managed out of the NIDDK Office of Minority Health Research Coordination (OHMRC). This outreach and mission was envisioned to be accomplished through providing high school and undergraduate students from backgrounds underrepresented in biomedical research (individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds, underrepresented racial and ethnic groups, and individuals with disabilities) with eight to ten consecutive weeks of a summer research experience. The annual program culminates with a scientific research symposium, in which all the students are required to attend and present their research results. From its onset, there have been several success stories of participants going on to receive their PhD, MD/PhDs and MDs. Over the period from 2002 through 2016 approximately 700 undergraduates and over 1200 high school students have participated in the STEP-UP program..

However, beyond some tracking done by the coordinating center there has not been a comprehensive independent analysis of the program both in terms of performance and outcome measures. This data is critical in ensuring the viability of the STEP-UP program and model.

C.2. OBJECTIVE

Uniquely poised to launch a renewal of the STEP-UP initiative (RFA-16-021, (http://grants.nih.gov/grants/guide/rfa-files/RFA-DK-16-021.html), NIDDK proposes a comprehensive and coordinated retrospective and forward-looking analysis of the STEP-UP program encompassing past participants and coordinating centers that participated in the program during the years 2002 to 2016; in addition to developing an evaluation framework for monitoring and analysis of the program as it moves forward in coordination with the NIDDK program staff.

This acquisition is designed to assist in the design and implementation of this evaluation to provide a snapshot of previous cohorts and provide the structure and support for ongoing analysis and evaluation of the program moving forward. In analyzing past participants of the STEP-UP program, the purpose it is to do a point in time outcome evaluation of where the participants are now with a focus of whether the applicants have completed degrees in science related fields and if the participants have persisted in the biomedical workforce.

In developing the evaluation framework for the ongoing analysis, the purpose is to develop quantitative tools to be used for analysis of the program moving forward.

The Contractor shall furnish services, qualified personnel, material, equipment, and facilities not otherwise provided by the Government, as needed, under the terms of this contract to perform the work set forth below. The Contractor’s personnel shall have the required training and experience to perform the work timely and accurately. Expertise will vary per the project and the Contractor must have the resources to quickly recruit, if necessary, and assign personnel with the appropriate knowledge, skills and abilities to perform each Task requirement as the need is identified. Task activities may include:

1) manage multiple tasks and projects simultaneously;

2) design and plan complex program evaluation research studies on scientific research programs in coordination with NIDDK program staff;

3) prepare well-organized, detailed, and accurate summary reports and background papers on STEP-UP, that will fully inform the design, implementation, and reporting of program evaluation studies on such programs;

4) assist in the outreach to past STEP-UP participants;

5) develop protocols for, conduct, and accurately and completely report the results of surveys of stakeholders of/and participants, mentors and coordinators of STEP-UP;

6) develop and implement protocols and procedures to abstract data from scientifically and technically complex sources into standardized formats;

7) conduct reviews of the scientific literature, bibliometric and publication analyses;

8) prepare, write, and edit reports that describe the results of program evaluation studies, for scientific and non-scientific audiences.

The Contractor shall perform work only as directed in the Task Area issued by the Contract Officer Representative (COR). To conduct task activities (e.g., interviews, focus groups) and meetings, occasional local (Washington, DC metro area) and/or domestic (contiguous U.S.) travel to the National Institutes of Health in Bethesda, MD may be required.

All information and materials developed pursuant to this contract are the property of the U.S.

Government and fall within the purview of the Freedom of Information Act. The contractor is enjoined against unauthorized release of the facts, findings, and written materials from this contract without the expressed, written authorization of the COR.

C.3. SCOPE OF WORK

The types of services provided under this contract include working with NIDDK staff to design and implement program evaluation research projects for STEP-UP. The Contractor shall work cooperatively with the NIDDK staff in a multidisciplinary team setting. The evaluation will be two-fold in nature an outcome evaluation of past participants of STEP-UP as well as the development of an evaluation framework for ongoing evaluation of the current program. The description of the Task Areas that follow offers examples of the types of support that historically have been required and should be anticipated for this contract. However, not all work performed by this Office can be anticipated, and the work that might be required under this contract is not limited to these examples.

C.3.1. TECHNICAL REQUIREMENTS

The contractor shall:

Requirements include developing and designing an evaluation framework and implementation with expertise in evaluation research. Additionally, the offeror will provide consistent feedback to NIDDK OMHRC on feedback and development of the evaluation in addition to working closely with NIDDK staff.

C.4. SPECIFIC TASKS TO BE PERFORMED BY TASK

The period of performance will include a 12- month Base period and Four (4) 12 – Month Option periods.

C.4.1. TASK 1: MANAGEMENT AND ADMINISTRATION

Task Area 1: Project Management: Designation of a Project Manager

The Contractor shall designate a Project Manager (PM) for the period of performance of this contract to monitor all contract activity, ensure quality of all deliverables, control contract costs, and coordinate and supervise all services required for this contract. As the principal point of contact for the Government, the PM shall:

• Assign, supervise, and coordinate contractor staff, consultants, and subcontractor assignments;

• Obtain conflict of interest certifications from contractor staff and subcontractors, as required by

NIDDK, to ensure conflict of interest does not exist or arise in appearance with respect to conducting NIDDK evaluation projects or tasks;

• Notify the COR immediately if any appearance of a conflict of interest arises;

• Submit reports and other deliverables that are accurate, error-free and completed within budget in accordance with the delivery schedule or upon request;

• Maintain budget control of all contract tasks to include notifying the COR and Contracting Officer (CO) when costs of the contract reach 75% of the estimated cost of the contract and provide a revised estimate of the cost to complete the contract;

• Serve as a liaison between contractor staff and COR;

• Keep the COR apprised of progress made toward assigned tasks;

• Assure and monitor the quality of all work products, notify the COR as soon as practicable of any problems encountered in completing the work within the contract;

• Assign staff with appropriate skills and experience for each task area;

• Maintain close communication with the COR and develop new Work Plans and budgets in response to task activities generated by the COR;

• Develop revised budgets to reflect any changes in task areas;

• Submit resumes and detailed justifications for proposed key personnel to the COR and CO for review and approval prior to assigning new leadership to contract tasks;

• Meet with COR on a monthly basis via teleconference to discuss and review pending work and completed work activities, quality control issues, timelines, staff assignments, and cost.

C.4.2. TASK 2: PROGRAM EVALUATION PROJECTS AND EVALUATION PREPARATION

Task 2: Evaluation Research Design

The Contractor shall assist the NIDDK OMHRC with developing a tailored, detailed, and rigorous research design to support program evaluation of STEP-UP projects to include, but not limited to, the following tasks:

• Assess the needs of evaluation stakeholders and incorporate these needs into the evaluation design;

• Identify specific outcome measures to guide program evaluation efforts;

• Identify topics or program features important to incorporate in a specific program evaluation;

• Review previous available information on the STEP-UP website and interact with stakeholders to develop an evaluation logic models for STEP-UP;

• Identify data sources suitable to answering the evaluation questions;

• Select appropriate analytical methods;

• Develop a detailed plan to implement the evaluation study according to the priorities and needs of NIDDK, the availability of data, and the resources available for the evaluation.

C.4.3. TASK 3: PROGRAM EVALUATION IMPLEMENTATION AND REPORTING

Task 3a: Surveys

The Contractor shall:

• Take the lead, while collaborating with the NIDDK, in developing specific, detailed survey questions as required for the evaluation project;

• Reach out to the past participants through the names and email address of past STEP-UP participants provided by NIDDK;

• Potentially request access to NIH IMPAC to see if past STEP-UP participants have applied for NIH grant funding

• Develop clear and concise survey instruments (questionnaires) for use in the outcome analysis of past-participants and for use in the evaluation framework in the form of entry and exit surveys for use;

• Develop specific, detailed, measurable and objective program evaluation questions, including questions such as:

o Did the STEP-UP participant complete an undergraduate degree or currently enrolled at a college or university?

o Did the STEP-UP participant pursue further research opportunities?

o Did the participant go on to graduate or professional school in the biomedical, behavioral or social sciences?

o Did the experience as a summer research influence their perception of their science identity?

• Ensure that the instrument (survey or questionnaire) to be used for analysis has undergone appropriate validation;

• Ensure that each questionnaire addresses (but does not merely repeat) the evaluation research questions; minimizes social desirability, recall, and other biases; and is easily and fully understood and accessible to all potential respondents;

• Ensure that the surveys reflect the stage and educational levels of the different STEP-UP cohorts

• Implement the survey process in coordination with NIDDK while keeping the evaluation team apprised of progress on a weekly or bi-weekly basis;

• Provide support in OMB clearance for the survey and instruments developed to measure outcomes (Currently the office has OMB clearance for a DK related survey of STEP-UP participants);

• Provide analysis of survey results including career outcomes to assess the success of the STEP- UP program in achieving the goals identified to inform the logic model.

• Prepare summaries of survey results as agreed with the evaluation project team according to the analysis plan.

The retrospective analysis should be primarily completed through the base year and the first option year. Ongoing analysis of the current program is expected through the duration of the contract.

Task 3b: Analysis and Reporting Support

The Contractor shall:

• Write various levels of reports, from highly technical to plain language, that summarizes the results of evaluation research projects;

• Synthesize and interpret complex scientific information.

C.4.4. TASK 4: TRANSITION

Task 4a: Transition Services – Transition Planning

The purpose of this section is to provide a plan for a transition from the Contractor to the Government or to a successor (Successor) for support to OSPAC during the final 90 days of the Contractor’s period of performance. During this period, the contractor shall create and deliver a Transition Plan for transferring operations to the Government and to a Successor. The plan shall provide for delivery of appropriate contract materials, data, databases, files, documentation, graphics, and working papers, and for the continuation of on-going Task Areas. The Contractor shall develop this plan in collaboration with the COR.

Task 4b: Transition Services – Transfer of Responsibilities

The Contractor shall:

• Participate in a formal transfer of responsibilities to the Government and/or to a Successor.

This includes transfer of all contract-developed or Government-acquired databases, data, documents, and necessary files to the Government or the Successor;

• Carry on operations at appropriate staffing levels until the designated transition period has ended.

• Relinquish specific tasks during the transition period, at the request of the COR;

• Support knowledge exchange activities to include being available to answer questions, provide access to all documentation, and brief the Government and Successor on the status of work not completed;

• Provide briefings and other familiarization to the Successor. The Government and its representatives will act as a third party in all meetings and communications between the incumbent and successor contractor specific to knowledge exchange;

• Provide design and software walk-through for the operational systems and systems under development and provide hands-on training for the systems and for use of development and testing tools;

• Transfer all Government Furnished Equipment (GFE) and Government Furnished Information (GFI) relevant to the tasks performed under this contract to the Government and/or the Successor and impart the knowledge of its functions. This includes all Government purchased or furnished computer hardware, software, and other related Government equipment, including computer books or documents, and all Government furnished data, documents, and reports;

• Provide a walk-through of all logistical, administrative, and other support procedures.

C.5. CONTRACTING OFFICER REPRESENTATIVE

The following Contracting Officer’s Representative(s) will represent the Government for the purposes of this contract:

“[To be specified prior to award]”

The Contracting Officer’s Representative is responsible for: (1) monitoring the Contractor’s technical progress, including the surveillance and assessment of performance and recommending to the Contracting Officer changes in requirements; (2) interpreting the statement of work and any other technical performance requirements; (3) performing technical evaluation as required; (4) performing technical inspections and acceptances required by this contract; and (5) assisting in the resolution of technical problems encountered during performance.

The Contracting Officer is the only person with authority to act as agent of the Government under this contract. Only the Contracting Officer has authority to: (1) direct or negotiate any changes in the statement of work; (2) modify or extend the period of performance; (3) change the delivery schedule; (4) authorize reimbursement to the Contractor for any costs incurred during the performance of this contract; or (5) otherwise change its Project Officer designation.

C.5.1. KEY PERSONNEL, HHSAR 352.270-5 (JANUARY 2006)

The key personnel specified in the resultant contract are considered to be essential to work performance. At least 30 days prior to diverting any of the specified individuals to other programs or contracts (or as soon as possible, if an individual must be replaced, for example, as a result of leaving the employ of the Contractor), the Contractor shall notify the Contracting Officer and shall submit comprehensive justification for the diversion or replacement request (including proposed substitutions for key personnel) to permit evaluation by the Government of the impact on performance under this contract. The Contractor shall not divert or otherwise replace any key personnel without written consent of the Contracting Officer. The Government may modify the contract to add or delete key personnel at the request of the Contractor or Government.

(End of Clause)

The following individual(s) is/are considered to be essential to the work being performed hereunder:

NAME Title

“[To be specified after award]”

C.6. REPORTING REQUIREMENTS/DELIVERABLES

Pre-Task Planning Reports

At the start of the contract and each option period, the Contractor shall schedule and attend an initial meeting with the COR, the designated Task Leader, and appropriate contract staff. The purpose of this meeting is to discuss the contract objectives, expectations and requirements of the NIDDK, potential problems and cost estimates. Within five (5) working days of each planning meeting, the Contractor shall submit a draft Work Plan to the COR. Within five (5) working days after submission of the draft Work Plan, the COR will reply with comments, which the Contractor shall incorporate into the Work Plan. The Contractor shall finalize the Work Plan and forward it to the COR and CO for approval.

Completion Reports

Upon completion of each period of performance, the Contractor shall prepare and submit to the CO (with a copy to the COR) a completion report. The report shall list contract title, Project Manager, start and completion dates, brief description of the contract, a detailed account of all services provided, records of any problems experienced, and a detailed breakdown of costs associated with the performance of the contract. The Contractor shall attach one copy of all written, edited, or Contractor designed documents. All data files, original artwork, disks, tapes, and other material produced, as part of the contract shall be delivered to the COR or her/his designee. In addition to both monthly reports and the annual reports detailed below the Contractor shall provide reports and updates based upon mutually agreed upon milestones in keeping with the contract.

a) Monthly Report: On the 10th working day of each month, the Contractor shall submit a narrative progress report and a financial report for the previous month. The narrative report will contain:

• A description, by task, of the Contractor’s program activities;

• Status of each ongoing Task Area;

• Proposed activities for the upcoming period;

• Anticipated deadlines;

• Any problems during the past month, or are anticipated, during the upcoming month and proposed solutions.

This report shall be delivered to the CO and the COR. A copy of the narrative and financial report for each Task Area shall also be sent to the Task Leader for that task.

In addition, the Contractor may be required to give timely and accurate reports on the status of any Task Area at any point in a given month at the request of the COR or CO.

b) Annual Report: On a yearly basis, beginning thirty days after the one-year anniversary of the contract award, the Contractor shall submit to the CO and COR an Annual Report that includes:

• A description of the significant activities and accomplishments that have occurred in the preceding year, problems encountered, and the resolution of those problems;

• A statistical summary of all tasks (cumulative costs, cost analyses, and trends) from the past year.

c) Final Report: At the conclusion of the Contract, the Contractor shall submit a Final Report that summarizes the highlights and accomplishments of the Contract. The Report shall contain an overview as well as a section providing details for each of the Task Areas and all subtask areas. Statistical summaries of all activities (cumulative costs, cost analyses and trends) shall be reported by year. The Final Report shall also detail any problems encountered and the resolution of those problems, as well as recommendations and conclusions based on experience and the results obtained over the course of the contract.

The Final Report shall be submitted one month following the conclusion of the contract.

Computer Security Plan

Within 90 days of the contract award, the Contractor shall submit a computer security plan to the COR that shall describe a fully documented, demonstrable computer security program. The COR, CO, and the Information Resource Management Branch, NIDDK will evaluate the plan for appropriateness, effectiveness, and cost-worthiness. By accepting this contract, the Contractor agrees that the safeguards outlined in the DHHS Automated Information Systems Security Program (AISSP) Handbook, release 2.0 (available on http://fas.org/sgp/othergov/hhs-infosec.pdf) will be met. The Contractor shall abide by all policies and procedures for safeguarding the information contained in Privacy Act systems of records, and confidential or privileged information.

C.7. FAR 52.212-2 EVALUATION – COMMERCIAL ITEMS (JAN 1999)

(a) The Government shall award a contract resulting from this solicitation to the responsible offeror conforming to the solicitation will be most advantageous to the Government.

Offerors are advised that an award under this solicitation shall be made to the Offeror whose proposal is determined by the Government to represent the best value to meet the Government’s needs.

The Technical Proposal shall receive paramount consideration in the selection of the Offeror for this acquisition. All evaluation factors, other than cost or price, when combined are significantly more important than cost or price. However, cost or price may become a critical factor in source selection in the event that two or more Offerors are determined to be essentially equal following the evaluation of all factors other than cost or price. In any event, The Government reserves the right to make an award to the Offeror whose proposal provides the best value to the Government.

Best value means the expected outcome of an acquisition that, in the Government’s estimation, provides the greatest benefit in response to the requirement.

The technical evaluation shall be based on the demonstrated capabilities of the Offeror set forth in the Technical Proposal.

The Government reserves the right to make an award without discussions if overall best value can be clearly determined and if no other Offeror would have a reasonable chance at award if discussions were conducted.

Offerors shall be evaluated in accordance with the factors set forth below. Sub-factors listed under each factor are of equal importance to each other.

http://fas.org/sgp/othergov/hhs-infosec.pdf

C.7.1. EVALUATION CRITERIA AND SELECTION PROCEDURE

Evaluation Criteria

Evaluation of proposals will be based on the criteria set forth below. The Contract resulting from this RFQ will be awarded to the bidder that submits the proposal most advantageous to the client considering price and the technical factors set forth herein. In making this determination, technical factors will receive significantly greater weight than price factors.

C.7.1.1. TECHNICAL CRITERIA

The criteria to be applied to each Technical Proposal are listed in descending order of importance.

The criteria are weighted in terms of the importance of the criteria.

I. EVALUATION CRITERIA

A. DEVELOPMENT AND DESIGN OF THE EVALUATION PROPOSAL 50 Points

The development and design of the proposal will be evaluated in terms of how well the offeror responds to the Statement of Work and all the requirements laid out. Specifically, in the evaluation particular attention will be placed on the methodology for the evaluation and the quantitative methods in order to address the program evaluation. Of critical concern is the ability of the offeror to not only develop methods to implement a survey with clear frameworks and analysis of results.

B. CORPORATE CAPABILITIES AND PAST PERFORMANCE 50 Points

This criterion refers to the offeror’s corporate resources and capabilities and performance results (outcomes) of similar tasks for the NIH or in other government contract efforts of similar magnitude.

1. Corporate Capabilities (15 points)

a) The Government seeks an offeror that has the ability to manage all aspects of the project and to nimbly shift staffing in response to ramp up periods as part of the contract. The offeror’s corporate capabilities will be evaluated based on the offeror’s description and discussion of its corporation and any proposed subcontractors demonstrating corporate resources and capabilities to perform the tasks contained in the Statement of Work including a named Program Manager who will be the primary point of contact for all services described in the Statement of Work.

2. Past Performance (35 points)

a) Past performance citations must be included in the proposal and have been completed within the past three (3) years or currently in progress for services similar to the requirements specified in the Statement of Work. The offeror must demonstrate that it has past experience in supplying and delivering the type of technical services that are listed in the Statement of Work.

TOTAL POINTS: 100

II. EVALUATION FACTORS

PAST PERFORMANCE

The Government will evaluate the quality of the offeror’s past performance based on information obtained from references provided by the offeror, as well as other relevant past performance information obtained from other sources known to the Government.

Evaluation of past performance will be a subjective assessment based on consideration of all relevant facts and circumstances. It will not be based on absolute standards of acceptable performance. The Government is seeking to determine whether the offeror has consistently demonstrated a commitment to customer satisfaction and timely delivery of services at fair and reasonable prices.

The assessment of the offeror’s past performance will be used as a means of evaluating the capability of the offeror. Thus, an offeror with an exceptional record of past performance may receive a more favorable evaluation than if it has an acceptable record.

By past performance, the Government means the offeror's record of conforming to specifications and to standards of good workmanship; the offeror's record of forecasting and controlling costs; the offeror's adherence to contract schedules, including the administrative aspects of performance; the offeror's reputation for reasonable and cooperative behavior and commitment to customer satisfaction; and generally, the Offeror's business-like concern for the interest of the customer.

The Government will consider the number or severity of an offeror’s problems, the effectiveness of corrective actions taken, the offeror’s overall work record, and the age and relevance of past performance information.

C.8. SPECIAL CONTRACT REQUIREMENTS

C.8.1. SECURITY REQUIREMENTS

All work performed under this contract shall be compliant with the Federal Information Security Management Act of 2002 (FISMA) to ensure security of all information systems developed, hosted and/or maintained by or on behalf of FIC. If the contractor/subcontractor will: (1) develop a Federal information system at the contractor’s/subcontractor’s facility; or (2) host and/or maintain

SPECIAL NOTE:

In accordance with Executive Order 13495 and the Federal Acquisition Regulation this solicitation and resulting award shall adhere to the clauses requiring vendors/contractors to offer employees under the predecessor contract a right of first refusal of employment under the new contract in positions for which they are qualified. The resulting Vendor/Contractor shall be provided the list of names upon award along with guidelines and procedures to follow.

a Federal information system at the contractor/subcontractor’s facility, the offeror shall submit with their proposal a completed Security Assessment required by National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Special Publication (SP) 800-53, Recommended Security Controls for Federal Information Systems and Organizations (as amended). NIST SP 800-53 (as amended) assesses information security assurance of the offeror's internal systems security. The contractor/subcontractor must annually update and re-submit their security assessment to FIC following award in accordance with FISMA and Office of Management and Budget (OMB) policy.

The offeror must also submit with its proposal, if required by the Project Officer and FIC Information System Security Officer (ISSO) a System Security Plan (SSP) using the most current template in Appendix A of NIST SP 800-18, Guide to Developing Security Plans for Federal Information Systems (as amended). The details contained in an offeror’s SSP must be commensurate with the size and complexity of the requirements of the SOW. The contractor/subcontractor shall update and resubmit their SSP to FIC every three years following award or when a major modification has been made to the system.

The plan shall ensure that system protection measures meet Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) requirements by complying with the HHS IRM Policy for the Prevention, Detection, Removal and Reporting of Malicious Software Automated Information Systems Security Handbook.

C.8.1.1. INFORMATION AND PHYSICAL ACCESS SECURITY

A. HHS-Controlled Facilities and Information Systems Security

a. To perform the work specified herein, Contractor personnel are expected to have routine (1) physical access to an HHS-controlled facility; (2) physical access to an HHS-controlled information system; (3) access to sensitive HHS data or information, whether in an HHS-controlled information system or in hard copy; or (4) any combination of circumstances (1) through (3).

b. To gain routine physical access to an HHS-controlled information system, and/or access to sensitive data or information, the Contractor and its employees shall comply with Homeland Security Presidential Directive (HSPD)-12, Policy for a Common Identification Standard for Federal Employees and Contractors; Office of Management and Budget Memorandum (M-05-24); and Federal Information Processing Standards Publication (FIPS PUB) Number 201; and with the personal identity verification and investigations procedures contained in the following documents:

1. HHS Information Security Program Policy (http://www.hhs.gov/read/irmpolicy/121504.html )

2. HHS Office of Security and Drug Testing, Personnel Security/Suitability Handbook, dated February 1, 2005 (http://www.hhs.gov/ohr/manual/pssh.pdf )

3. HHS HSPD-12 Policy Document, v. 2.0 (http://www.whitehouse.gov/sites/default/files/omb/assets/omb/memor anda/fy2005/m05-24.pdf ) http://www.hhs.gov/read/irmpolicy/121504.html http://www.hhs.gov/ohr/manual/pssh.pdf http://www.whitehouse.gov/sites/default/files/omb/assets/omb/memoranda/fy2005/m05-24.pdf http://www.whitehouse.gov/sites/default/files/omb/assets/omb/memoranda/fy2005/m05-24.pdf

4. Information regarding background checks/badges ( http://idbadge.nih.gov/background/index.asp )

c. Position Sensitivity Levels:

This contract will entail the following position sensitivity levels:

[ ] Level 6: Public Trust - High Risk. Contractor/subcontractor employees assigned to Level 6 positions shall undergo a Suitability Determination and Background Investigation (MBI).

[ ] Level 5: Public Trust - Moderate Risk. Contractor/subcontractor employees assigned to Level 5 positions with no previous investigation and approval shall undergo a Suitability Determination and a Minimum Background Investigation (MBI), or a Limited Background Investigation (LBI).

[ X] Level 1: Non-Sensitive. Contractor/subcontractor employees assigned to Level 1 positions shall undergo a Suitability Determination and National Check and Inquiry Investigation (NACI).

d. The personnel investigation procedures for Contractor personnel require that the Contractor prepare and submit background check/investigation forms based on the type of investigation required. The minimum Government investigation for a non-sensitive position is a National Agency Check and Inquiries (NACI) with fingerprinting. More restricted positions - i.e., those above non-sensitive, require more extensive documentation and investigation.

The Contractor shall submit a roster, by name, position, e-mail address, phone number and responsibility, of all staff (including subcontractor staff) working under the contract who will develop, have the ability to access and/or maintain a Federal Information System(s). The roster shall be submitted to the Contracting Officer's Representative (COR), with a copy to the Contracting Officer, within 14 calendar days after the effective date of the contract. The Contracting Officer shall notify the Contractor of the appropriate level of suitability investigations to be performed. An electronic template, "Roster of Employees Requiring Suitability Investigations," is available for contractor use at: http://ocio.nih.gov/docs/public/Suitability-roster.xls .

Upon receipt of the Government's notification of applicable Suitability Investigations required, the Contractor shall complete and submit the required forms within 30 days of the notification.

The Contractor shall notify the Contracting Officer in advance when any new personnel, who are subject to a background check/investigation, will work under the contract and if they have previously been the subject of national agency checks or background investigations.

All contractor and subcontractor employees shall comply with the conditions established for their designated position sensitivity level prior to performing any http://idbadge.nih.gov/background/index.asp http://ocio.nih.gov/docs/public/Suitability-roster.xls http://ocio.nih.gov/docs/public/Suitability-roster.xls work under this contract.

Contractors may begin work after the fingerprint check has been completed.

e. Investigations are expensive and may delay performance, regardless of the outcome of the investigation. Delays associated with rejections and consequent re-investigations may not be excusable in accordance with the FAR clause, Excusable Delays - see FAR 52.249-14. Accordingly, the Contractor shall ensure that any additional employees whose names it submits for work under this contract have a reasonable chance for approval.

f. Typically, the Government investigates personnel at no cost to the Contractor.

However, multiple investigations for the same position may, at the Contracting Officer's discretion, justify reduction(s) in the contract price of no more that the cost of the additional investigation(s).

g. The Contractor shall include language similar to this "HHS Controlled Facilities and Information Systems Security" language in all subcontracts that require subcontractor personnel to have the same frequency and duration of (1) physical access to an HHS-controlled facility; (2) logical access to an HHS-controlled information system; (3) access to sensitive HHS data/information, whether in an HHS-controlled information system or in hard copy; or (4) any combination of circumstances (1) through (3).

h. The Contractor shall direct inquiries, including requests for forms and assistance, to the Contracting Officer or designee.

i. Within 7 calendar days after the Government's final acceptance of the work under this contract, or upon termination of the contract, the Contractor shall return all identification badges to the Contracting Officer or designee.

B. Standard for Security Configurations, HHSAR 352.239-70, (January 2010)

a. The Contractor shall configure its computers that contain HHS data with the applicable Federal Desktop Core Configuration (FDCC) (see http://nvd.nist.gov/fdcc/index.cfm ) and ensure that its computers have and maintain the latest operating system patch level and anti-virus software level.

Note: FDCC is applicable to all computing systems using Windows XPTM and Windows VistaTM, including desktops and laptops - regardless of function - but not including servers.

b. The Contractor shall apply…