Q_A OSMR RFI.docx

Research Participant Recruiting RFI Q&A

1. The sample sizes described in the RFI with the pricing scenarios appear to fall below thresholds typically associated with statistical significance. Is BLS interested in statistical significance? If not can BLS clarify the intended purposed of the data collected. For example, is the data intended to generate qualitative/exploratory insights only?

BLS will determine the research methods used for each research study, including whether statistical significance or qualitative insights are required. Generally, this RFI seeks information about recruiting individuals to participate in small-scale qualitative research studies that are not intended to produce official statistics.

1. Is BLS open to vendors proposing alternative data collection methodologies, such as digital asynchronous or AI-Assisted approaches that may achieve BLSs research objectives at greater scale, speed or cost efficacy beyond traditional in person or synchronous virtual interviews?

BLS is interested in collecting data from humans, not from AI. BLS will determine the research methods used for each study, including synchronous vs. asynchronous approaches, and in-person vs. virtual contacts. These decisions will be made based on the study’s goals, timeline, scope, and the population of interest.

1. For studies targeting specialized populations (insert what they defined that) does BLS currently maintain any existing lists, databases or prior respondent pools that the selected vendor would have access to? Or is the vendor expected to independently source all participants for the studies.

Vendors should not plan on such lists being available or BLS having the ability to share any lists.

1. To what extent, if any, does BLS anticipate coordinating with other federal agencies or leveraging interagency data sharing agreements to assist in identifying eligible participants?

BLS coordinates and shares data with other federal agencies as each agency’s confidentiality and privacy policies, practices, and requirements allow. Generally, BLS seeks participants for its own small-scale qualitative research studies.

1. Is BLS considering a specific contract type for this effort (e.g. T&M, FFP or outcomes based)?

BLS anticipates making a performance-based acquisition award. BLS has not yet determined the specific contract type.

1. Does the government have a timeline in which they plan to release an RFQ for this scope of work? Does this scope of work already exist or is this net new scope for BLS?

This is a new requirement. If BLS proceeds with making an award, the agency anticipates doing so in FY26.

1. The RFI/SSN requires: “Historical information (description and length of time providing this service, as well as under what North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) XXXXXXXXX) to the public and other federal agencies.” Does the Government want to know the NAICS codes for the projects cited in response to this requirement or the NAICS codes for similar, JBS-supported contracts with other federal agencies?

The Government welcomes the NAICS codes for the projects cited in response.

1. The RFI asks about suggested roles and responsibilities for the offeror and the government. Is the government asking for suggested additions/changes to the delineation of company and government responsibilities described in the Scope?

BLS welcomes feedback on the roles and responsibilities as outlined in the Scope, especially if such changes would increase value to the Government.

1. Can BLS confirm whether there is an incumbent performing this scope of work and, if yes, identify the applicable contract number?

This is a new requirement. There is no incumbent.

1. Is there an anticipated or estimated period of performance for the scope of work outlined in this RFP?

DOL and BLS contracts typically have a period of performance lasting for one base year, with 4 option years.

1. Is there an estimated time period or duration for the example studies included in the RFI that should be considered when developing the sample pricing?

BLS did not specify the estimated time period or duration for the example studies, and appreciates the opportunity to clarify this aspect of the RFI. Please assume that the research activity (interviews, focus groups) would be held within the time frames listed below. BLS assumes that the vendor would be engaged in screening and recruiting efforts before the research activity begins.

· Example Project A: online interviews would start and end within 4 weeks.

· Example Project B: online interviews would start and end within 6 weeks.

· Example Project C: focus group(s) would start and end within 1 week.

· Example Project D: in-person interviews would start and end within 2 weeks.

1. Can participants be recruited from an existing online research panel?

Yes. BLS recognizes that it may be necessary to confirm that existing online research panel members meet the study’s eligibility criteria. BLS also recognizes that panel members’ situations change over time, so panel members who may not appear eligible may be eligible.

1. The Background section notes that in-person focus groups will be held in Washington, DC but example project C lists in-person focus groups in a major U.S. city. Please clarify if all in-person sessions will be held in Washington, DC or if other sites can/should be considered.

For Example Project C, vendors are asked to assume that the activity will be conducted outside of the Washington, DC metropolitan area. If/when a contract is awarded, for each research study conducted, BLS will determine the approximate or exact location of in-person research activities.

1. For example project D, can other free or low-cost locations be considered or only a suburban library?

For Example Project D, vendors are asked to assume that the interviews will be held at a suburban public library. If/when a contract is awarded, for each research study conducted, BLS will determine the approximate or exact location of in-person research activities.

1. As it relates to data on an offeror’s 2025 recruitment efforts, should those be specific to U.S. operations only or also consider any global projects? Similarly, should offerors only include recruitment efforts for qualitative studies?

Vendors are asked to limit the information reported to qualitative studies that occurred within the boundaries of the 50 United States, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, American Samoa, and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands.

1. Is this a new requirement or is there an incumbent that fulfilled the same/similar services? If there is an incumbent, could you please provide the contractor's name and contract number?

This is a new requirement. There is no incumbent.