Response to Offeror Questions Document 4.docx

RFP 26RFP19762 – Questions

Question – Is this project being funded by a state or federal grant, and is there a way to apply for an extension on the grant?

Answer – Yes this project is being funded by a federal grant. Our understanding of the grant is there is an application to request an extension.

Question – Is it possible that the awarded contract could be extended, and if so, for how long?

Answer – The project is being funded through a federal grant, which comes with a defined funding deadline. However, it is our understanding that the grant allows for an extension request through a formal application process. If approved, this would allow us to extend the contract accordingly so that the project timeline aligns with the revised federal funding period.

Question - In order to accurately price the project, how many learning objective tasks does LET anticipate?

Answer - LET currently has 157 learning objectives across 49 topic areas. Respondents should use the Job Task Analysis (JTA) data to inform the identification and validation of relevant topic areas (i.e., blocks of instruction) for the Basic Course. The selected contractor will be expected to develop learning objectives, including both instructional goals and measurable performance objectives, for any newly identified topic areas; and review, refine, and as needed, update existing learning objectives for current topic areas to ensure alignment with the JTA data and overall course outcomes.

Question - Given the uncertainty around these learning objectives tasks, will LET accept a fixed-price proposal for deliverables for which scope is clear, and a rate table or time and materials pricing model for services for which scope will be determined during the project?

Answer - Based on Appendix A on p. 12 of the RFP, we expect that the cost proposal form to be filled out as listed.

Question - Does LET anticipate a revision to all learning objective tasks? Or will some be left intact?

Answer - LET anticipates that some existing learning objectives may remain intact; however, all objectives will be subject to review as part of the needs assessment process. The extent of revisions will depend on findings from that assessment, including alignment with Job Task Analysis (JTA) data and the integration of key content areas such as de-escalation and crisis response. Based on these factors, some learning objectives may require refinement or updating, while others may remain unchanged if they are determined to be current, relevant, and aligned with overall course goals.

Question - Are there any recent statutory changes or additions/mandates to the law enforcement training and certification program that need to be taken into consideration? If so, can they be provided?

Answer - LET is not aware of any recent statutory changes. However, respondents should be aware that law enforcement training requirements, both in South Dakota and nationally, continue to evolve through statute, administrative rule, and best practice guidance.

South Dakota already requires training related to domestic abuse. Additionally, national legislative trends show expanded statutory focus in areas such as crisis intervention, mental health, and de-escalation training, with many states adopting more specific requirements in these areas in recent years.

While we will need to ensure compliance with all applicable statutes and administrative rules, this effort is also intended to identify and incorporate national best practices to maximize both the effectiveness of the training program and the overall quality of instruction. Respondents are therefore encouraged to recommend evidence-based approaches, emerging training topics, and innovative instructional strategies that align with current industry standards.

Question - Will LET consider electronic only submittals through the procurement site or via email?

Answer - Per the RFP, we will require hard copies as well.

Question - Will LET accept e-signatures rather than wet ink signatures where applicable in the proposal?

Answer - Yes

Question - We wish to organize our proposal precisely to LET’s requirements. To better understand this, regarding section 7.2 proposal organization and tabs/labels, can LET please clarify that sections 7.2.3 – 7.2.7 of the RFP are topics LET wishes us to briefly describe within the two-page Executive Summary, which will then be fully described in the Detailed Response section?

Answer - Yes, we do want you to describe those sections within the executive summary.

Question - Regarding section 7.2.8.2, LET requests: “A specific point-by-point response, in the order listed to each requirement in the RFP. The response should identify each requirement being addressed as enumerated in the RFP.”

a. Can LET please clarify if it means it would like the work plan addressed as enumerated in the RFP’s SOW 3.1 – 3.6?

Or does LET request each heading in the proposal to be enumerated with a proposal organizational requirement, such as the numbering under section 7.2? However this does not appear to fully include the topics listed under the Executive Summary.

Answer - We want the proposal response format to match what is outlined in 7.0. You should include any/all items in 3.0 scope of work within the 7.2 format.

Question - Regarding section 7.2.8.7, can LET clarify what it means by “A description of your ability and proven history in handling special project constraints.” Or provide examples of constraints LET may anticipate?

Answer - By “a description of your ability and proven history in handling special project constraints,” LET is requesting that respondents demonstrate their experience successfully managing projects that involve unique challenges or limitations that may impact delivery, schedule, cost, or quality. This includes both identifying such constraints early and implementing effective strategies to mitigate their impact.

Examples of constraints that LET may anticipate include, but are not limited to schedule constraints, budget constraints, resource constraints, stakeholder coordination constraints, technical constraints, etc.

In your response, please provide specific examples of past projects where you encountered similar constraints, how you addressed them, and the outcomes achieved. Emphasis should be placed on practical problem-solving approaches, adaptability, and demonstrated success in delivering results under challenging conditions.

Question - Can you please confirm, how many total hard paper copies are required?

Answer – 4 total copies. The original and 3 copies.

Question - Aside from the hard copies (“originals”) I see that (3) additional electronic copies need to be submitted. For those, are we able to put all 3 on the same flash drive or should they be on 3 separate flash drives?

Answer – Yes you can put all 3 copies on the same flash drive.