Questions_&_Answers_re_RFISS130117BU0004.pdf

Questions & Answers re: Request for Information (OMB Circular A‐123 & IT Data) –

RFISS130117BU0004

1. Question: Why would a services vendor need to have a platform with FISMA and FEDRAMP compliant when services being procured are for A‐123 assessment?

Response: It’s because DOC needs assistance in both data analytics as well as A‐123. DOC requires a contractor to be FISMA and/or FEDRAMP certified to meet DOC IT security requirements.

2. Question: Are you looking for a product that is FISMA and FEDRAMP compliant or are you looking for A‐123 assessment services?

Response: Both

3. Question: Who is the current contract holder and when is the contract ending?

Response: TFC

4. Question: You stated that you need the vendor to be FEDRAMP certified or FISMA compliant.

These certifications are done at the product or infrastructure level. Are you looking for a data analytics product that is FEDRAMP certified/FISMA compliant?

Response: The Department is requesting services where vendors can perform their analysis offsite using FISMA and/or FedRamp complaint tools and infrastructures.

5. Question: For data analytics effort, is the government looking for a product that is FEDRAMP certified or FISMA compliant or both?

6. Question: Is the government open for a product based on a cloud infrastructure or do you want this product to be hosted in your data center?

7. Question: Who is the incumbent offering this solution now for the government?

Response: TFC

8. Question: What is the contract #?

Response: DOCSA130115BU0004

9. Question: Question: In the section entitled: Discussion of vendor reporting and financial tracking capabilities, it states “… what experience does your company have in using software to account for, report on, and control appropriated funds…”.

Will Commerce clarify if this question relates to the Vendor’s capabilities for managing their own financials/funds and any required contractual reporting thereunder or if relates to the Vendor’s capability to manage Commerce’s financials/funds in accordance with OMB’s changing requirements throughout the performance of the SOW?

Response: It’s related to the Vendor’s capabilities for managing their own financials/funds and any required contractual reporting thereunder.

10. Question: Are these questions pertaining to Vendor’s accounting system and ability to comply with Government contracts’ reporting requirements or is directed at understanding our ability to aid Commerce with tracking and compliance with OMB requirements?

Response: It pertains to Vendor’s accounting system and ability to comply with Government contracts’ reporting requirements.

11. Question: Further, what is meant by “OMB system certifications and/or required certification and accreditation audit?”

Response: If applicable, provide any relevant certifications and/or audit accreditation.