RFI-2025-1021_Fire_Alarm__Security_Monitoring_Software.pdf

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Fire Alarm and Security Monitoring Software
Solicitation number
RFI-2025-1021
Issued by
Volusia County, Florida

About this file

The document is a Request for Information (RFI) No. RFI-2025-1021 issued by the School Board of Volusia County, Florida, seeking information on fire alarm and security monitoring software. The RFI aims to solicit detailed information from qualified suppliers for a comprehensive software solution to monitor fire alarm and security systems across the district's 45 elementary schools, 12 middle schools, 9 high schools, 11 alternative education sites, 7 charter schools, and 3 administrative complexes. The solicitation timeline includes a voluntary pre-solicitation meeting on March 25, 2025, at 8:30 AM EST, vendor responses due on April 18, 2025, at 2:00 PM EST, vendor presentations on May 1, 2025, and a committee review meeting on April 23, 2025.

The RFI seeks a sophisticated software platform with centralized dashboard monitoring, automated alert notifications, remote access capabilities, and integration with existing Meraki equipment, Schlage door locks, and DMP (XR550) systems. Key requirements include a user-friendly interface with interactive floor plans, mobile app functionality, two-way communication, role-based access control, and advanced analytics for system-wide security management. The solution must provide comprehensive incident reporting, emergency responder system integration, cloud storage for event history, and robust cybersecurity measures compliant with NFPA codes and UL listings. While no specific budget range is provided, the software must support a district serving over 61,400 students and 7,750 employees, necessitating a scalable and adaptable system. The procurement process emphasizes finding a vendor that can provide technological sophistication, comprehensive training, ongoing technical support, and a clear implementation strategy.

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School Board of Volusia County, Florida RFI No.: RFI-2025-1021 200 N. Clara Ave Date: March 14, 2025 DeLand, FL 32720 Page 1 of 14

RFI Name: Fire Alarm & Security Monitoring Software

Request for Information (RFI) No.: RFI-2025-1021

Fire Alarm and Security Monitoring Software

Release Date: March 14, 2025, 7:00 PM EST

Submittals Due: April 18, 2025, 2:00 PM EST

The public is invited to attend the RFI opening on: April 18, 2025, AT 2:00 PM EST

Microsoft Teams Dial-in#: 878-787-7709 Meeting ID: 930 222 111#

Microsoft Teams Meeting Hyperlink: Click Here

RFI Point of Contact:

Celeste Trossbach, Procurement Buyer

Email: cstrossb@volusia.k12.fl.us Phone: 386-734-7190, ext.: 20393 https://teams.microsoft.com/l/meetup-join/19%3ameeting_MDcxM2Q5NDctZGNiYy00MThkLTlkZGItNzQwNTQ4NTRlYjEy%40thread.v2/0?context=%7b%22Tid%22%3a%2293e9784b-3507-40ff-bc01-59ea8a1a7b71%22%2c%22Oid%22%3a%22e579c868-eb62-4c9b-b233-409e872a781f%22%7d

DeLand, FL 32720 Page 2 of 14

SECTION 1 – INTRODUCTION

1. Intent: The School Board of Volusia County, Florida (VCS) is issuing this Request for Information (RFI) to solicit information from qualified suppliers for fire alarm and security monitoring software.

This is a Request for Information (RFI) only. It is not intended, nor will this be used, as a competitive solicitation procurement document and as such, the focus is on obtaining information for planning purposes that could possibly be used in a formal Request for Proposal/Invitation to Bid.

VCS does not intend to award a contract on the basis of this RFI. The District may, or may not, use the information obtained as a result of this RFI as evidence of the need for a competitive solicitation event in the future or the utilization of a viable cooperative contract. This RFI does not commit the District to contract with any respondent’s proposal submitted under this RFI.

The information provided in this RFI is not binding on the District. It does not constitute a Request for Proposal (RFP)/Bid or a promise to issue a competitive solicitation in the future. Failure to respond to this RFI does not preclude participation in any future solicitation, if issued.

Further, the District is not seeking formal proposals at this time and will not accept unsolicited proposals. After the responses are reviewed, interviews or presentations may be scheduled.

If it is determined that, based on responses to the RFI, there is only one provider that can meet the requirements, the District may, at its option, pursue a sole-source agreement.

2. District Information: The District is located on the Atlantic Coast in northeast Florida. District properties dwell within the principal cities of Daytona Beach, DeBary, DeLand, DeLeon Springs, Deltona, Edgewater, Enterprise, Holly Hill, Lake Helen, New Smyrna Beach, Oak Hill, Orange City, Ormond Beach, Osteen, Pierson, and Port Orange. The District is the 14th largest in Florida and services over 61,400 students and 7,750 employees. The district consists of forty-five (45) elementary schools, twelve (12) middle schools, nine (9) high schools, eleven (11) alternative education sites, seven (7) charter schools, and three (3) administrative complexes. In addition, there are several transportation and maintenance buildings.

3. RFI Timeline:

RFI Period – RFI-2025-1021

Friday, March 14, 2025, at 7:00 PM EST Public Release

Tuesday, March 25, 2025, at 8:30 AM EST Pre-Solicitation Meeting (Voluntary and Online)

Monday, March 31, 2025, at 2:00 PM EST Last Day for Questions from Vendors

Friday, April 4, 2025, at 3:30 PM EST Last Day to post Addendum

Friday, April 18, 2025, at 2:00 PM EST Written Responses from Vendors Due

REVIEW PERIOD

Wednesday, April 23, 2025, at 2:00 PM EST Committee Review Meeting

Thursday, May 1, 2025, at 8:30 AM EST Presentations

DeLand, FL 32720 Page 3 of 14

Tuesday, May 6, 2025, at 2:00 PM EST Written Questions to Vendors

Tuesday, May 13, 2025, at 2:00 PM EST Responses to Questions Due from Vendors

Note: Dates and times are estimated and are subject to change. Notification of changes to the time schedule will be made to registered Vendors.

Pre-Solicitation Meeting: A VOLUNTARY pre-solicitation meeting will be held for all interested Proposers through TEAMS on March 25, 2025 at 8:30 AM EST. Interested vendors can join meeting in by dialing +1-878-787-7709, 380 780 1 # or by clicking here. An overview of the solicitation process and review of the scope of services will be conducted during the meeting.

Presentations: The presentations will be held on April 30, 2025, beginning at 8:30 AM and continue throughout the day. If the presentations are held in-person, they will be scheduled at the VCS Facilities Services Building at 3750 Olson Dr., Daytona Beach, FL 32124. Each vendor will be sent the date, time, and room number of their scheduled demonstration.

4. Questions and Response Submittal: Please submit and refer response specification questions to:

Primary Contact Back Up Contact Celeste Trossbach, Procurement Buyer Jennifer Deveaux, Procurement Buyer 200 N. Clara Ave. 200 N. Clara Ave.

DeLand, FL 32720 Deland, FL 32720 Email: cstrossb@volusia.k12.fl.us Email: jldeveau@volusia.k12.fl.us Phone: (386) 734-7190, ext. 20393 Phone: (386) 734-7190, Ext. 20394

5. Electronic Submittal/Delivery of RFI Response

Vendor(s) shall prepare and submit responses in accordance with the requirements outlined in these instructions.

A. Submission Process Responses must be submitted electronically through the VendorLink system, as specified in the included solicitation documents.

B. Submission Requirements To ensure proper formatting and compliance, Vendor(s) shall:

1. Submit all responses electronically through VendorLink. Mail and email submissions will not be accepted.

2. Upload files in the following formats only:

a. Microsoft Word (.doc, .docx)

b. Microsoft Excel (.xls, .xlsx)

c. Microsoft PowerPoint (.ppt, .pptx)

d. Adobe PDF (.pdf)

e. Compressed (ZIP) files

3. Ensure that all submitted files are printable.

4. Organize the submission by including a clear separator or divider page to distinguish different sections (e.g., document type, form type, content type).

mailto:cstrossb@volusia.k12.fl.us mailto:jldeveau@volusia.k12.fl.us

DeLand, FL 32720 Page 4 of 14

5. For technical assistance, contact VendorLink support at support@evendorlink.com. Note:

Vendors are strongly encouraged to submit responses early to allow time for troubleshooting any technical difficulties.

6. Adhere to all RFI instructions and provide all requested information as specified.

6. Incurred Expenses: The District shall not be responsible for any cost or expense which may be incurred by the Vendor in preparing and submitting the submittal called for in this RFI. All costs associated with responding to this RFI will be solely at the interested parties’ expense.

SECTION 2 – INFORMATION REQUESTED

1. Overview

All responses to this RFI should include the following information and be organized in a manner consistent with this section. Responses will be reviewed to determine features that would best serve the needs of the District. The Department of Planning and Construction, Facilities Maintenance, Information Technology Services, and Safety and Security are jointly responsible for the implementation of a comprehensive and unified fire alarm and security monitoring platform for VCS facilities that meets state standards and requirements. To ensure their success, these departments are collaborating to gather information that may lead to the development of a solicitation. The desired solution should be secure, adaptable, data-driven, interoperable with our current districtwide technology landscape, and budgetarily sustainable. VCS has been utilizing several solutions for the last decade and is seeking one or more suppliers to support this endeavor.

The objective of this RFI is to determine the willingness and ability of capable vendors to source and supply appropriate equipment and software for the use of the District in this process. VCS wishes to learn more about the modern solutions available that meet the needs of our facilities and the costs versus the benefits of those solutions.

Through this RFI, VCS is seeking information from qualified vendors for software that offers real-time monitoring and management of fire alarm systems, including Alarms and System trouble alerts. The software should also feature security monitoring capabilities such as intrusion detection, access control, and video surveillance integration. The solution can be cloud-based or on-premise, depending on the district's infrastructure needs. Additionally, the proposed solution must integrate with Meraki MV cameras and adhere to enterprise-level network standards and industry best practices. The District requires a comprehensive fire alarm and security monitoring solution across multiple schools.

A. Elements Required:

1) Company Information

a. Provide the full legal name of your company.

b. Describe your experience in providing the requested goods and services in K-12 school settings, including the number of years you have been in the business.

c. List the number of similar projects completed or currently in progress specifying the school districts and project scopes.

d. Provide references from at least three K-12 schools or school districts that can be visited for site demonstrations to see their systems in action to validate the completed and successful projects.

DeLand, FL 32720 Page 5 of 14

2) Key Components of the Proposed Solution

a. Centralized dashboard for monitoring all fire alarm and security systems.

b. Automated alert notifications for various types of incidents.

c. Remote access capabilities for authorized personnel.

d. Integration with existing fire alarm and security hardware.

e. Customizable reporting tools for compliance and analysis.

f. User-friendly interface for easy navigation and operation.

g. Scalability to accommodate future growth and additional facilities.

h. Multi-site management capabilities for district-wide oversight.

i. Role-based access control for different user levels.

j. Audit trail and event logging for security and accountability.

k. Integration with Meraki equipment, with preference given to Meraki partners.

l. Support for camera protocols compatible with Meraki systems.

m. Full duplex communication capabilities.

n. Integration with Schlage door locks

o. Comprehensive dashboard for system-wide monitoring and control.

p. Specific fire alarm detection reporting functionality.

q. Monitoring software supporting Contact ID protocol for fire alarm and intrusion detection.

r. Capability to integrate with existing DMP (XR550) equipment, or a clear migration path if integration is not possible.

3) Required Features for the Solution

a. Interactive floor plans and zone mapping.

b. Mobile app for on-the-go monitoring and management.

c. Two-way communication with monitoring stations.

d. Automated maintenance scheduling and tracking.

e. Integration with emergency responder systems.

f. False alarm reduction algorithms.

g. Cloud storage for event history and video footage (if applicable).

h. Customizable workflows for different types of incidents.

i. Advanced analytics for identifying patterns and trends.

j. Compatibility with various alarm panel manufacturers.

k. Real-time status updates for Meraki equipment and Schlage door locks.

l. Unified interface for managing both fire alarm and security systems.

m. The software must comply with all relevant industry standards and regulations, including NFPA codes and

UL listings.

n. The system should offer robust data encryption and cybersecurity measures to protect sensitive information.

o. The solution must provide seamless integration with the School Board of Volusia County's existing infrastructure, including Meraki equipment and Schlage door locks.

p. A unified dashboard should be provided for easy monitoring and management of all connected systems, including fire alarms, security cameras, and access control points.

q. The fire alarm detection reporting feature must provide detailed information on the type and location of alarms to enable quick response and decision-making.

r. The monitoring software must support the Contact ID protocol for compatibility with fire alarm and intrusion detection systems.

DeLand, FL 32720 Page 6 of 14

s. The solution provider must clearly outline the integration possibilities for the existing DMP (XR550) equipment or provide a detailed migration plan if direct integration is not feasible, including necessary hardware upgrades or software adaptations.

t. The vendor should include training and ongoing support to ensure proper implementation and utilization of the software by School Board staff.

u. The solution should offer regular updates and enhancements to keep the system current with evolving technologies and security needs, especially regarding Meraki equipment and Schlage door lock integrations.

4) General Networking Compliance and Meraki Integration Requirements

The proposed solution must adhere to enterprise-level network infrastructure standards and industry-recognized best practices while supporting integration with Meraki MV cameras, which utilize Hypertext Transfer Protocol Live Streaming (HLS). Integration with HLS streaming, managed through the Meraki Cloud-Based Dashboard, must comply with Meraki's Ecosystem Partnership Requirements, including:

a. Full compliance with current Information Technology (IT) industry security and performance standards.

b. Support for full-duplex network interfaces to ensure simultaneous bidirectional data transmission.

c. Network interface speed negotiation of no less than 100 megabits per second (Mbps).

d. Support for Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) and Domain Name System (DNS) node name resolution (either natively or with support from a DNS registration helper policy on the DHCP server).

e. Static DHCP reservations are permitted only for servers and primary gateway devices at the main site.

f. Real-Time Streaming Protocol (RTSP) is not permitted for camera integration.

g. Meraki Ecosystem Partnership: To integrate with the Meraki Cloud-Based Dashboard, vendors must be part of the Meraki Ecosystem Partnership Program. Details on currently integrated solutions below:

Cisco Meraki Marketplace

h. Meraki Ecosystem Partner Application: Vendors seeking to integrate must apply for ecosystem partnership through the following link: Meraki Partner Application

i. Meraki MV Camera Features: A detailed overview of Meraki MV camera capabilities can be found here:

Meraki MV Camera Features

5) Functional and Technical Specifications of the Proposed Solution The vendor must provide a detailed response on Attachment “B” to each of the following functional and technical requirements for the proposed solution. The system should address the compatibility, monitoring, integration, security, and scalability needs of the School Board’s fire alarm and security systems.

a. Solution Compatibility: Provide a comprehensive explanation of how your solution integrates with existing systems, including Meraki equipment such as cameras and network infrastructure, ensuring seamless operation. Describe how the solution interfaces with Schlage electronic door locks, detailing any necessary software or hardware requirements. Additionally, explain the compatibility with DMP XR550 systems, outlining options for maintaining compatibility or providing a migration path. Ensure the solution supports Contact ID protocol for integration with fire alarm and intrusion detection systems and provide the technical details for this integration.

https://marketplace.cisco.com/en-US/home https://merakiresources.cisco.com/EN-23-SASE-CD-Meraki-Marketplace-Application-REQ.html https://documentation.meraki.com/Architectures_and_Best_Practices/Cisco_Meraki_Best_Practice_Design/Best_Practice_Design_-_MV_Cameras/Meraki_MV_Cameras_-_Introduction_and_Features

DeLand, FL 32720 Page 7 of 14

b. Comprehensive Monitoring Capabilities: The solution should offer a centralized dashboard for real-time monitoring of all fire alarm and security systems across multiple facilities, providing detailed functionalities and a broad operational scope. It must include interactive floor plans and zone mapping capabilities to enable quick localization of incidents, with a clear explanation of how this feature operates and its system requirements. Additionally, the system should support two-way communication with monitoring stations, detailing the protocols used and response coordination features to ensure efficient incident management.

c. Fire Alarm System Features: The solution must include comprehensive reporting functionality for fire alarm events, specifying the level of detail available, such as alarm type, location, and cause.

Additionally, the solution must comply with relevant NFPA codes and UL listings for fire safety systems, with supporting documentation to verify compliance.

d. Security System Integration: The solution should provide real-time monitoring for motion detectors within the fire alarm system, detailing the technical capabilities for continuous motion detection monitoring. The solution should seamlessly integrate intrusion detection, access control systems such as Schlage, and video surveillance systems including Meraki into a unified security platform. It must provide real-time status updates for all Meraki equipment and Schlage door locks, ensuring continuous monitoring and rapid response capabilities. Additionally, the solution should incorporate advanced analytics to identify security patterns and trends, presenting actionable insights to users in a clear and accessible format.

e. User Interface and Accessibility: The solution must feature a user-friendly interface that enables easy navigation and system operation, with provided screenshots or descriptions of the interface.

Additionally, it should include a mobile application for on-the-go monitoring and management of fire alarm and security systems. The system must also incorporate role-based access control to manage user permissions and access levels, with a detailed explanation of how this functionality is implemented.

f. Alerting and Communication: The system must support automated alerts by detailing how they are generated and distributed for various incidents, such as security breaches, fire alarms, and system malfunctions. It should also include full duplex communication for real-time interaction with monitoring stations or emergency responders, with technical specifics provided. Additionally, the system must integrate with emergency responder systems to facilitate rapid response coordination, with a clear explanation of how this integration functions.

g. Reporting and Compliance: The system should include customizable reporting tools for compliance and analysis, offering flexible options to tailor reports as needed. It must provide detailed fire alarm event reporting, capturing essential information such as timestamps, event descriptions, and affected zones. Additionally, the system should maintain an audit trail and event logging to ensure accountability and security, with clear retention policies for data management.

h. Scalability and Multi-Site Management: The system must support scalability to accommodate future growth and additional facilities, with technical details on its architecture. It should enable district-wide oversight and management of all facilities through robust multi-site management features. Additionally, the solution must be adaptable to expanding security and fire alarm requirements as the district grows, ensuring seamless integration of future needs.

DeLand, FL 32720 Page 8 of 14

i. Data Security and Privacy: The solution must incorporate robust data encryption and cybersecurity measures to ensure data protection. It should comply with relevant data protection regulations, with supporting documentation provided. Additionally, the system must offer secure cloud storage for event history and video footage, detailing the security measures implemented to safeguard stored data.

j. Training and Support: The Training and Support plan should outline the training program for School Board staff, specifying in-person or virtual options, the scope of training, and its duration. Additionally, it should detail the ongoing technical support and system maintenance services, including the frequency of system updates and upgrades. Furthermore, a structured plan for regular system updates and enhancements must be provided to ensure continued compatibility with evolving technologies.

k. Implementation and Integration Plan: Provide a comprehensive project plan outlining the steps required to implement the solution across all facilities, specifying timelines, milestones, and resource allocation. It should also detail the integration strategy for incorporating the new system with existing infrastructure, including any necessary steps for migrating legacy systems. Additionally, a deployment timeline should be provided, highlighting key milestones and the expected timeline for full operational readiness.

l. Total Cost of Ownership: Provide a comprehensive breakdown of the initial implementation costs, covering hardware, software, and installation expenses. Additionally, the ongoing maintenance and support fees must be outlined, encompassing costs for regular maintenance, software updates, and technical support.

Finally, the cost-effectiveness of the solution should be evaluated in relation to the School Board's budget and long-term security needs, ensuring that the proposed solution provides optimal value over time while meeting future requirements.

6) Project Implementation

a. Outline the typical implementation timeline for a project of this scope.

b. Describe the support and training provided during and after installation.

c. Provide and include details on any required maintenance and ongoing support services.

7) Demonstration

a. Indicate your willingness to schedule demonstrations.

b. Provide details of systems currently in use that the district can visit to evaluate performance and capabilities.

8) Confidentiality Redaction

a. Ensure that all submitted documents are appropriately redacted for confidential information.

b. Clearly label any sections of your response that contain proprietary or confidential information.

9) Product Standards and Design Guidelines requirements

a. Provide documentation that demonstrates compliance with all relevant State of Florida standards and regulations for educational facilities. This includes but not limited to building codes (i.e., NFPA 1, NFPA 70, NFPA 72, NFPA 101, NFPA 1221 & NFPA 3000), safety regulations, and technology standards. A

b. Describe how your products and system design meet K-12 educational standards (i.e., DeLand, FL 32720 Page 9 of 14

PASS -K-12 Safety and Security Guidelines version 6).

c. Outline your quality assurance processes and any testing protocols your firm use to ensure that your products meet the required standards for safety, performance, and reliability in educational environments.

d. Cybersecurity and Data Protection – Implementation of robust encryption and security measures to protect sensitive data.

10) Cooperative Contracts

a. List any cooperative contracts your company has been awarded that are relevant to this

RFI.

b. Provide details on the scope and scale of these contracts.

2. Letter of Transmittal The Letter of Transmittal should serve as a concise summary, outlining the respondent’s relevant experience, strengths, and qualifications. The letter, limited to no more than ten (10) letter-sized pages, should demonstrate the respondent’s understanding of the nature and scope of the requested services, as well as their capacity to fulfill the requirements.

As part of this section, Respondents must address the following questions/statements at minimum:

A. Required Information.

The response should include the following:

• RFI title and number

• Company Name

• Name and Signature of Company Representative Submitting the RFI

• Mailing Address, Email Address, and Phone Number

3. Evaluation Criteria: It is the intent of the District to conduct a fair and open evaluation of all Vendor responses to the RFI received. Each response submission will be evaluated by the District to determine conformance outlined in the RFI. A Pass or Fail rating will be used to determine whether the submission is considered "responsive" and "responsible" based on the following criteria. If the rating is "Partially Conforms," an explanation will be provided to clarify any areas of non-compliance or partial compliance.

Evaluation Criteria Rating

If Rating is "Partially Conforms", provide an explanation.

Solution Compatibility:

- Ability to integrate seamlessly with existing Meraki equipment and Schlage door locks

- Compatibility with DMP (XR550) equipment or provision of a clear migration path

- Support for Contact ID protocol for fire alarm and intrusion detection systems

Comprehensive Monitoring Capabilities:

DeLand, FL 32720 Page 10 of 14

- Centralized dashboard for real-time monitoring of fire alarm and security systems across all facilities

- Interactive floor plans and zone mapping for quick incident localization

- Two-way communication with monitoring stations for efficient response coordination

Fire Alarm System Features

- Real-time monitoring of motion detectors

- Specific fire alarm detection reporting functionality with detailed event information

- Compliance with relevant NFPA codes and UL listings for fire safety systems

Security System Integration

- Seamless integration of intrusion detection, access control, and video surveillance

- Real-time status updates for Meraki equipment and Schlage door locks

- Advanced analytics for identifying security patterns and trends

User Interface and Accessibility

- User-friendly interface design for easy navigation and operation

- Mobile app functionality for on-the-go monitoring and management

- Role-based access control to ensure appropriate user permissions

Alerting and Communication

- Automated alert notifications for various types of incidents

- Full duplex communication capabilities

- Integration with emergency responder systems for rapid incident response

Reporting and Compliance

- Customizable reporting tools for compliance and analysis

- Detailed reporting capabilities for fire alarm detection events

- Audit trail and event logging for security and accountability

Scalability and Multi-site Management

- Ability to accommodate future growth and additional facilities

- Multi-site management capabilities for district-wide oversight

- Scalable architecture to support expanding security and fire alarm needs

Data Security and Privacy

- Robust data encryption and cybersecurity measures

- Compliance with relevant data protection regulations

- Secure cloud storage for event history and video footage (if applicable)

Training and Support

- Comprehensive training program for School Board staff

- Ongoing technical support and system maintenance

- Regular updates and enhancements to keep the system current with evolving technologies

Implementation and Integration Plan

- Detailed project plan for implementing the solution across all facilities

- Clear strategy for integrating with existing systems and infrastructure

- Timeline and milestones for full system deployment and operational readiness

DeLand, FL 32720 Page 11 of 14

Total Cost of Ownership

- Initial implementation costs

- Ongoing maintenance and support fees

- Cost-effectiveness of the solution in relation to the School Board 's budget and long-term security needs

Once the evaluation process is complete, the Vendor whose proposal is deemed most advantageous to the District will be issued a preliminary notice, inviting them to proceed to the next step, which includes preparation for the Live Presentation.

4. Response Format, Content, and Submission Vendors providing information shall abide by the format, content, and submission requirements and procedures. The District reserves the right to reject any responses that fail to meet these requirements and procedures.

A. Response Format

• Materials included in the responses should be organized in the most optimal way to elements and components stated in Requirements section above.

• Provide succinct responses to the VCS requirements. Minimal promotional materials should be submitted.

• Responses must contain information that clearly indicates the name and contact information including email address(es) of the respondent.

B. Response Content Refer to the Elements Required in the Scope of Work. Include all-inclusive pricing and the cost model used by the vendor (by numbers of staff, students, schools, district, or other).

Any material that a Vendor considers as confidential but does not meet the disclosure exemption requirements of applicable public disclosure laws should not be included in the response as the same may be subject to disclosure and made available to the public. By submitting materials in response to this RFI, Vendors are (1) consenting to the release of such materials by the District if requested under any applicable public disclosure laws without further notice to them and (2) agreeing to indemnify and hold the District harmless for such release of the materials.

C. Response Submission All responses to this RFI should be submitted via VendorLink.

5. Terms for Receipt of Responses A. Errors and Omissions in RFI

Vendors are responsible for reviewing all portions of this RFI. Vendors are to promptly notify the VCS Procurement Department in writing if they discover any ambiguity, discrepancy, omission, or other error in the RFI.

B. Questions Regarding the RFI

Any questions concerning the substance of this RFI, including the Scope of Work and any other requirements, should be submitted in writing to the VCS Procurement Department. If necessary, a “Questions and Answers” document will be developed from all submitted questions and made available to all participating vendors.

DeLand, FL 32720 Page 12 of 14

C. Change Notices VCS may modify the RFI, prior to the response due date, by issuing an addendum, which will be made available to all participating vendors. Respondents shall be responsible for ensuring that their responses reflect any and all RFI addenda issued by VCS prior to the response due date regardless of when their response is submitted.

D. Revision of Response

A respondent may revise a response on the respondent’s own initiative at any time before the deadline for submission of responses. The respondent must submit the revised response in the same manner as the original. A revised response must be received on or before the response due date. In no case will a statement of intent to submit a revised response, or commencement of a revision process, extend the response due date for any respondent.

E. Financial Responsibility VCS accepts no financial responsibility for any costs incurred by any respondent in responding to this RFI. Responses to the RFI will become the property of VCS and may be used by VCS in any way deemed appropriate.

F. Reservation of Rights by the District The issuance of this RFI does not constitute an agreement by VCS that any contract will actually be entered into between VCS and a participating vendor. VCS reserves the right at any time to:

• Waive or correct any defect or informality.

• Reject any or all responses.

• Reissue a Request for Information.

• Prior to submission deadline for responses, modify all or any portion of the Request for

Information procedures, including deadlines for accepting responses, the specifications or requirements for any materials, equipment, or services to be provided under this RFI, or the requirements for contents or format of the responses.

• Procure any materials, equipment or services specified in this RFI by any other means;

or

• Determine that no project will be pursued.

THE REMAINDER OF THIS PAGE IS INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK

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ATTACHMENT A

VENDOR’S EXPERIENCE / QUALIFICATIONS AND REFERENCES

Please provide written responses to the following questions. If the answer to any of the questions is “Yes,”

Vendor shall describe fully the circumstances, reasons therefore, status, and ultimate disposition of each matter that is the subject of this inquiry.

1. Years in business under present name: Years performing work specialty:

License or business tax receipt currently valid in force:

2. Vendor’s Representative

Provide the following information for the person assigned to this RFI. Representative will assist in the overall coordination of services to include but not be limited to quoting projects and resolving issues with invoices, etc.:

Name: Phone #: Email:

3. Has Vendor been declared in default of any contract? Yes No

4. Has Vendor ever forfeited on any performance bond payment issued by a surety company on any contract?

Yes No

5. Has an uncompleted contract been assigned by Vendor’s surety company on any payment of performance bond issued to Vendor arising from its failure to fully discharge all contractual obligations there under?

Yes____ No____

6. Within the past three (3) years, has Vendor filed for reorganization, protection from creditors, or dissolution under the bankruptcy statutes? Yes No____

7. Is Vendor now the subject of any litigation in which an adverse decision might result in a material change in the respondent’s financial position or future viability? Yes ____ No____

8. Is Vendor currently involved in any state of a fact-finding, negotiations, or resistance to a merger, friendly acquisition, or hostile take-over, either as a target or as a pursuer? Yes____ No_____

9. Has Vendor had experience in Public School District with more than 60,000 students over the past two (2) years?

Yes____ No_____

10. Has Vendor had prior experience working with at least two (2) K-12 Districts for more than three (3) years?

Yes____ No_____

DeLand, FL 32720 Page 14 of 14

Reference # 1

Organization Name: _____________________________________ Telephone #: ___________________________

Contact Name: ______________________________________________Email Address: _________________________

Scope of Work Provided: ___________________________________________________________________________

Project Dollar Value: ___________________________________ Present Contract Status: _______________________

Contract Dates: _____________________________________________________

Project Name: ____________________________________________________________________________________

Reference # 2

Organization Name: _____________________________________ Telephone #: ___________________________

Contact Name: ______________________________________________Email Address: _________________________

Scope of Work Provided: ___________________________________________________________________________

Project Dollar Value: ___________________________________ Present Contract Status: _______________________

Reference # 3

Organization Name: _____________________________________ Telephone #: ___________________________

Contact Name: ______________________________________________Email Address: _________________________

Scope of Work Provided: ___________________________________________________________________________

Project Dollar Value: ___________________________________ Present Contract Status: _______________________

3. RFI Timeline:
A. Elements Required:
1) Company Information
a. Provide the full legal name of your company.
b. Describe your experience in providing the requested goods and services in K-12 school settings, including the number of years you have been in the business.
c. List the number of similar projects completed or currently in progress specifying the school districts and project scopes.
d. Provide references from at least three K-12 schools or school districts that can be visited for site demonstrations to see their systems in action to validate the completed and successful projects.
2) Key Components of the Proposed Solution
a. Centralized dashboard for monitoring all fire alarm and security systems.
b. Describe the support and training provided during and after installation.
c. Provide and include details on any required maintenance and ongoing support services.
7) Demonstration
a. Indicate your willingness to schedule demonstrations.
b. Provide details of systems currently in use that the district can visit to evaluate performance and capabilities.
8) Confidentiality Redaction
a. Ensure that all submitted documents are appropriately redacted for confidential information.
b. Clearly label any sections of your response that contain proprietary or confidential information.
9) Product Standards and Design Guidelines requirements
a. Provide documentation that demonstrates compliance with all relevant State of Florida standards and regulations for educational facilities. This includes but not limited to building codes (i.e., NFPA 1, NFPA 70, NFPA 72, NFPA 101, NFPA 1221 & NFPA ...
b. Describe how your products and system design meet K-12 educational standards (i.e., PASS -K-12 Safety and Security Guidelines version 6).
c. Outline your quality assurance processes and any testing protocols your firm use to ensure that your products meet the required standards for safety, performance, and reliability in educational environments.
d. Cybersecurity and Data Protection – Implementation of robust encryption and security measures to protect sensitive data.
10) Cooperative Contracts
a. List any cooperative contracts your company has been awarded that are relevant to this RFI.
b. Provide details on the scope and scale of these contracts.
2. Letter of Transmittal
3. Evaluation Criteria: It is the intent of the District to conduct a fair and open evaluation of all Vendor responses to the RFI received. Each response submission will be evaluated by the District to determine conformance outlined in the RFI. A Pas...
Once the evaluation process is complete, the Vendor whose proposal is deemed most advantageous to the District will be issued a preliminary notice, inviting them to proceed to the next step, which includes preparation for the Live Presentation.
4. Response Format, Content, and Submission
5. Terms for Receipt of Responses
A. Errors and Omissions in RFI
B. Questions Regarding the RFI
C. Change Notices
D. Revision of Response
E. Financial Responsibility
F. Reservation of Rights by the District
THE REMAINDER OF THIS PAGE IS INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK
ATTACHMENT A
VENDOR’S EXPERIENCE / QUALIFICATIONS AND REFERENCES

File details come from the government source that posted it. Updated .