HT001119R0029 Q_and_A Amendment 0001.pdf

Strategic Communications Support to the Defense Health Agency (DHA) Proposal RFP Number HT001119R0029 Questions & Answers

March 4, 2020

Question Number Interested Parties' Questions Government’s Responses

Question # 001

Page 69, task 5.9 Health.Mil Web Management Support, is the Contractor responsible for engineering website migration, standing up new websites, or other web developer functions that are outside of content development? If so, should additional labor hours be added to this task?

The awardee will be responsible for content only -content migration, assisting new programs or offices that transition into the DHA.

Question # 002 Page 69, task 5.9, Health.mil Web Management Support, approximately how many sites does the Government estimate the Contractor will be responsible for managing?

Currently, there are two Health.Mil sites requiring support.

Question # 003

Page 73, task 5.12 Communications support to the DHA Small Market and Stand-Alone MTF Office, will the contractor be the primary responsible party for developing social media content for all SSO MTFs?

No, the awardee will not be primarily responsible for developing social media content for all SSO MTFs.

Question # 004

Pricing Sheet, can the Government confirm that the Contractor will have flexibility under our FFP proposal to adjust the staffing plan and manage the distribution of hours and LCATs if needed during execution in order to provide the required deliverables for each task?

Please refer to PWS Section 5.11 and Instructions to Offerors. The Staffing Plan will account for all personnel performing work under contract/Task Order and an updated status report will be due 30th of each month.

Question # 005 Staffing Plan, what lead time in terms of contract award notification will the Government provide prior to contract start date?

Please refer to PWS Section 5.11 and Instructions to Offerors. As stated in the PWS, <<…at time of Task Order award.>>

Question # 006

RFP Evaluation, the Government states that it expects the Offeror to provide a detailed technical approach on Task 5.1h, r, u, and 5.14.i. Will the evaluation of the technical approach also consider the approach for the other PWS tasks not called out in the Instructions to Offerors (Page 90) or Evaluation Criteria (page 101)?

The Government will review all proposal submissions to ensure these follow the Instructions to Offerors and will evaluate in accordance with the stated Evaluation Criteria.

Question # 007

Page 82 for the requirements for material and supply (subscriptions to media and social media monitoring services, exhibits for conferences, etc.) and to support travel specific to this contract, should there be an ODC line to accommodate these costs?

Please refer to the PWS and Instructions to Offerors.

There are no ODC for this requirement.

Question # 008 Would the Government provide a start date for the RFP?

It is the Government’s expectation that Performance will start with the start of the Base Period. However, the Government cannot provide an estimated start date for the work at this time.

Question # 009

On the Price Sheet, SF149 and on Page 47, Section 1.10.1, page 80, page 91 section task 5.14, and page 102, there are references to PWS Task Areas 5.14, 5.15, and 5.16, but the last Task Area in the PWS is 5.13. Will the Government please clarify the references to 5.14, 5.15, and 5.16?

The Government notes the discrepancy. It will make corrections to the solicitation via amendment to the RFP.

Question # 010

Page 64, task 5.6 Communications Coordination, Collaboration, Analysis, and Administration Support, by “establish the system” is the Government asking for an IT solution, or just that the Contractor set up a process for managing an existing IT system?

The awardee will be responsible for set up a process.

Question # 011 Page 64, Task 5.6, Can the Government confirm that this task pertains to tracking documents and tasks, and does not involve work on CCIR report or customer service inquiries?

Confirmed, the awardee will be responsible for tracking documents, products and tasks.

Question # 012 Will the Government allow for font sizes no lower than 10 point in graphics and tables?

The Government will not accept fonts sizes lower than 10 on the tables and graphics.

Question # 013 Does the Government intend to provide any additional ceiling for the IDIQ in anticipation of future emerging task orders?

The Government foresees an IDIQ contract with an overall ceiling amount, which will include all the work of Task Order One (reoccurring work) and forecasted future work.

Question # 014 Page 5, Section 1.1 Will years of experience be considered equivalent to a Masters degree? If yes, how many years?

No. Years of experience, although very important, will not be considered by the Government in lieu of the degree requirement. Please refer to the Instructions to Offerors, Minimum Requirements for Key Personnel.

Question # 015 Page 57, Part 5, Task 5.1 (k) Is the contractor is responsible for travel costs associated with conferences and strategic off-sites?

Yes, the awardee will be responsible for the requirements set forth in the PWS task.

Question # 016 Page 62, Task 5.4 The term "etc." is used to describe additional social media platforms – what are the additional platforms?

The additional social media platforms envisioned by the Government are those that are currently industry best practice; which is constantly changing. For example, My Space was a popular platform in the early 2000s, but not today.

Question # 017

Page 69, Task 5.8.1 It’s noted that the contractor shall acquire all necessary materials and services to accomplish the tasks of this PWS, but specifies that these materials and services will not be reimbursed as an ODC – will the government reimburse these expenses through another funding stream?

No, there are no ODCs. All interested parties are to include within their proposal and for each CLIN all the work/cost necessary to perform the PWS/task requirements.

Question # 018 Page 70, Task 5.9 What is the expected number or organizations or individual pages the government expects to integrate on health.mil?

The number of organizations to migrate can vary but as of now, the Government expects about 10 to migrate.

Question # 019 Page 70, Task 5.9.b It is specified that research should include "focus groups, surveys…" – are there agreements in place with OMB to support these research methods?

The Government has tools that are approved by OMB for survey purposes.

Question # 020 Page 70, Task 5.9.c In the sentence "monitor and keep internal developing update to date," what does “internal developing” mean?

Internal Development means Content for the Intranet.

Question # 021 Page 73, Task 5.12 b, g Under Task 5.12b and Task 5.13g, will new or existing photos be required to populate the library?

Yes, the awardee will use both new and existing photos.

Question # 022

Page 73, Task 5.12 f, j Task 5.12f requires the establishment of a strategic outreach campaign in support of the markets and 5.12j requires the preparation of a strategic outreach campaign in support of the markets – are these the same campaigns and if no, what is the difference between the two?

No these are not the same. PWS Task 5.12: 5.12f is Strategic Outreach Campaign and PWS Task 5.12j is Overarching strategic communications campaign for the Markets.

Question # 023 Page 73, Task 5.12i Task 5.12i requires the development of a systems management database within 30 days of award – what are the requirements for database functionality?

The requirements for data functionality are that these meet industry recommended best practice for managing the data on a Government device with full access available to the Government during and after the contract.

Question # 024

Page 73, Task 5.12j Task 5.12j requires the creation of strategic marketing communications campaigns in support of the markets – approximately how many campaigns will be required annually?

The Government anticipates 4 campaigns annually.

Question # 025

Page 73-74, Task 5.12i, Task 5.13n Task 5.12i requires the creation of a database for project management and Task 5.13n requires the maintenance of a database for project management – are these the same databases?

Yes, this refers to the same project management database.

Question # 026 Page 74, Task 5.13 b, g Task 5.13b and 5.13g require the development of articles – are these the same articles?

Yes these are the same articles. Task 5.13 b is the task and Task 5.13g is the quantity.

Question # 027

Page 81, Part 7, Attachment 2 Part 7, Attachment 2 has a CLIN for 0014, 0015, and 0016, but there are no written requirements, and estimated hours for CLIN 0014 and 0015 equal the total hours for 0013 – are these separate CLINs, a breakout of hours from 0013, or are they in addition to the hours estimated in 0013?

The Government notes the discrepancy. It will make corrections to the solicitation via amendment to the RFP.

Question # 028

Page 82, Part 7, Attachment 2 Part 7, Attachment 2 specifies prices for conference materials: total booth amenities (qty 10), but task 5.8c specifies up to 20 conferences a year – is the contractor responsible for 10 or 20 conference events per year?

The information in PWS Estimated Workload Data is historical information only and states any proposal should be based on the requirements within the PWS. Please refer to the information provided in the PWS and Task 5.8c which states <<…support for up to 20 events annually.>>

Question # 029

Page 90, Addendum to 52.212-1, (i), Task 5.1 (h, r, u) Does the government want the offer's technical approach to only cover the outlined sections (h,r,u), in addition to the staffing plan and quality control approach narrative, or all tasks (5.1

– 5.13)?

Please refer to the Instructions to Offerors and the solicitation requirements. The information provides details for the Staffing Plan requirements, Proposal Submission and Evaluation Criteria.

Question # 030

RFP, Page 92, Addendum to 52.212-1, (f) Third-party statistics indicate less than 3,000 individuals are certified Program Management Professionals (PMP), world-wide and 7 years of experience doesn’t necessarily align – will any other certifications or degrees be considered instead, and if yes, what are they?

No, the Government will not revise the Key Personnel minimum requirement for the Program Manager.

Question # 031 Is the contractor required to provide and account for the cost of tools such as media monitoring services, stock images, and video equipment?

Yes, all interested parties are. The Government is looking for a Firm Fixed price solution. All costs of material and supplies shall be part of the work performed under the PWS requirements/tasks.

Question # 032 Is it the government’s intention that the small business prime accounts for 51% of the revenue, or can it be split between multiple qualifying small businesses?

The Government's requirement follows the FAR guidance for Small Business compliance.

Question # 033 Will the Government consider a proposal deadline extension of one week? Please refer to Solicitation Amendment 0001.

Question # 034 Is there an incumbent for the work described in the RFP?

There is no incumbent for this IDIQ requirement. The work of Task Order One is currently being performed by RACK-WILDNER & REESE, INC. - AKOYA under contract HT001119C0025.

Question # 035 Can the Government specify the quantity and anticipated length of the deliverables described on p.64, bullet 5.5F?

The Government cannot provide since there is no set quantity or length; the average total is 150.

Question # 036

On p.69, section 5.8.1 states that “The Contractor shall acquire all necessary materials and services to successfully accomplish the tasks of this PWS. Acquiring the necessary materials and services will not be reimbursed as an Other Direct Cost to the Government.” Does this mean that the Contractor is responsible for purchasing and paying for exhibit booth materials, such as carpet and lighting, described in the bullet points under section 5.8.1?

Yes, the awardee will be responsible. The Government is looking for a Firm Fixed price solution. All costs of material and supplies shall be part of the work performed under the PWS requirements/tasks.

Question # 037 On p.81, can the Government confirm whether the estimated hours for Task Order 1 are for 12 months or the lifespan of the contract (60 months)?

The Estimated Workload Data is historical information only and the hours do not correlate to the Task Order One. Hours associated with Task Order One are for an interested party to propose. Task Order One will be issued for a performance period of 12 months plus four 12-month option periods.

Question # 038 Is there an incumbent on the project?

There is no incumbent for this IDIQ requirement. The work of Task Order One is currently being performed by RACK-WILDNER & REESE, INC. - AKOYA under contract HT001119C0025.

Question # 039 Will personnel need to work in Falls Church, Virginia for this project or can they work at our own facility?

As indicated in the solicitation, the Government anticipates the necessity for personnel to work from its offices in Falls Church. Any other arrangements will be at the discretion of the Government.

Question # 040

Regarding item(5) Volume 4, Organizational Conflict of Interest (OCI) Instructions, of the solicitation (pages 96-

100) may subcontractors of the prime submit Technical Exhibit 5, OCI Contract List template directly to the Government and not for inclusion of the prime’s proposal volume given the business proprietary/contract sensitive information being requested of the subcontractor’s work?

Given the contract sensitive information, this proprietary information could potentially be leveraged by the prime outside this procurement. Addressing this question and allowing subcontractor teammates to submit this information directly to the Government versus through the prime helps to safeguard small businesses

Please see Instructions to Offerors. The OCI list must be submitted from the interested party as Prime Contractor.

The Government will not accept submissions from subcontractors.

Question # 041

45 - 1.6.1 – Transition - The PWS states “…the contractor shall have all identified key personnel in accordance with PWS 1.12, as well as all non-key personnel, onboard day 1 of the period of performance start date.” However, not all personnel will have CACs. Will the government allow personnel without CACs to work at the contractor’s facility until each individual receives a CAC and GFE?

Some Contractor personnel may attend meetings and engage at the Government facility but be housed off site;

except for the key personnel required to be onsite. The Government facility requires that Contractor personnel to be cleared and have obtained a CAC before working at the Government facility or receiving access to the Government Network.

Question # 042

46 - 1.7.3 - Hours of Operation - The government states that “Any Contractor required meetings not initiated by the Government will occur outside of the core hours or when the Government is closed.” This does not pertain to contractor meetings required to accomplish the contract, correct (e.g. creative meetings, content planning, etc.)?

The Government facilities would be closed in those instances and Contractor staff would not have access. If the Contractor sees it necessary to perform on these instances, it must find other arrangements for its staff.

The Government is looking for a Firm Fixed Price solution, so no overtime or hours are being covered by the Government. If the question refers to meetings, retreats, or off site events set up by the company, and if the intent of these is to have a day-long company meeting with all staff from the contract, it must be done outside of Government business hours.

Question # 043 46 - 1.7.1 – Place of Performance - Can the government specify which positions are eligible to work at the contractor’s facility?

Please refer to the PWS 1.7.1. <<...shall be authorized to perform some of the tasks in coordination with the Government’s COR approval.>> This will be coordinated with the COR as needed.

Question # 044 47 - 1.10.1 – Quality Control - Can the government confirm if the program manager is required to be onsite full time?

Yes, the Government will require the Program Manager to be onsite full time.

Question # 045

59 - Communications Strategy Team (f) - The government states that it will require focus groups and sensing session as part of this deliverable. Will all focus groups take place with military personnel or government employees? Will all focus groups take place in a military or government facility? If no, we request that the government consider adding an ODC line to support formal research requirements – gathering participants and securing a research facility.

There are no ODCs for this requirement and none will be added. The Government anticipates the focus groups will take place at Government facilities with Government or Military personnel or family members.

Question # 046 60 - Media Relations (q) - Does the government foresee the need for overnight analysis shifts to ensure that the MHS Early Bird is delivered in a timely fashion?

Media analysis is due by 6:30 am Eastern Time - how it is compiled is up to the awardee.

Question # 047 60 - Media Relations (q) - Does the MHS Early Bird require both a News Clips package as well as analysis?

Yes, the MHS Early Bird requires both a News Clip package as well as analysis.

Question # 048 60 - Media Relations (q) - Is MHS Early Bird required seven days a week?

The MHS Early Bird is required every day the Government offices are open.

Question # 049 60 - Media Relations (q) - At what time is the OATSD/PA daily News of Note due to the government and in what format?

The OATSD/PA daily News of Note is to be submitted via Email, daily at 6:30 am Eastern Standard Time.

Question # 050

62 - Social Media Operations - The government states that social media support with be required for DHA, MHS, and DHA leaders and entities. Approximately how many social media profiles/pages require support under this scope of work?

Currently, this includes two senior leader accounts on Twitter, then corporate accounts for two entities on Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, LinkedIn and others platforms as industry best practice dictates.

Question # 051 62 - Social Media Operations - Will social media support and community management be required outside of business hours on a regular basis?

Historically, social media support and community management support outside of business hours has only been necessary on an occasional basis.

Question # 052 62 - Social Media Operations - Approximately how many live social media events have taken place per year historically?

Historically, there have been six live social media events per year on average.

Question # 053

63 - Social Media Operations (j) - Will social media all outreach focus entirely on organic and earned media efforts or does the government have some budget for paid social outreach?

Social media outreach focus is organic and earned media efforts.

Question # 054 64 - Senior Leader Communications (l) - Will this database be hosted on an internal government platform (e.g.

Teamsite, SharePoint, etc.)?

Yes, the Senior Leader Communications database will be hosted internally.

Question # 055

64 - Communications Coordination, Collaboration, Analysis, and Administrative Support (a) - Is there a common event calendar to help offerors coordinate across DHA and components?

Yes there is a common event calendar currently in use.

However, the tool may be open for changes.

Question # 056

64 - Communications Coordination, Collaboration, Analysis, and Administrative Support (b) - Is there a beta workflow or suspense management system in place or will offerors be required to develop and implement a wholly new system? Will this system be government hosted or can offerors propose COTS solutions?

Beta workflow exists but the Government is open to consider other options as long as these reside on Government hosted platforms.

Question # 057

65 - Communications Coordination, Collaboration, Analysis, and Administrative Support (e) - Is this a new requirement for DHA? If not, will the government share previous audience analysis information with the successful offeror?

Yes, this is a new requirement and the Government will share available information with the awardee.

Question # 058

65 - Communications Coordination, Collaboration, Analysis, and Administrative Support (e) - Approximately how many attendees does the government foresee attendings each Strategic Communications Training seminar?

The Government anticipates 200 in person and up to 400 virtually to attend the Strategic Communications Training seminar.

Question # 059

65 - Communications Coordination, Collaboration, Analysis, and Administrative Support (e) - Will the majority of the audience at the Strategic Communications Training seminars be government employees?

Yes, the majority of attendees participating in the Strategic Communications Training seminars will be Government and Military personnel.

Question # 060

65 - Communications Coordination, Collaboration, Analysis, and Administrative Support (e) - Approximately how many special projects will take place each contract year?

The Government anticipates there will be no Special Projects for Communications Coordination, Collaboration, Analysis, and Administrative Support (e).

However, there are two one-day trainings.

Question # 061

66 - Communications Coordination, Collaboration, Analysis, and Administrative Support (i) - Will DHA provide a specific government budget for each Conference and Special Event to support requirements?

No, the Government will not provide a budget for each Conference and Special Event.

Question # 062 67 - Communications Content Management (d) - What is the desired average word count for the 16 articles per month?

The Government anticipates the appropriate word count to support the venue and topic for Health.Mil to be under 600.

Question # 063 67 - Communications Content Management (f) - Approximately how many web properties shall be supported under this scope of work?

Currently, there are 2 web properties being supported.

However, this may vary with in the proposed solution.

Question # 064 69 - Health.Mil Web Management Support - Will this task require any offeror front end or backend coding support?

No, Health.Mil Web Management Support will not require front or back end support.

Question # 065 69 - Health.Mil Web Management Support - What content management system is currently being used for Health.Mil (e.g. Drupal, WordPress, DefenseReady, etc.)?

Per PWS Task 5.9, the Government will be providing the content management system, Sitecore.

Question # 066 71 - Broadcast and Video Production Support - Will the government provide professional, onsite facilities to support the filming of these videos?

No, the Government will not be providing professional, onsite facilities to support the filming of videos.

Question # 067

71 - Broadcast and Video Production Support - Does the government currently possess any professional video, photo, or audio hardware / software to support content creation on this scope of work?

No, the Government does not possess any professional video, photo, or audio hardware/software to support content creation.

Question # 068

73 - Communications support to DHA Small Market and Stand-Alone MTF Office - How quickly does the government anticipate the need for onsite OCONUS support at MTFs for these tasks?

Currently there is no OCONUS support for Small Markets and Stand Alone MTF Offices. The Government is unable to forecast at this time.

Question # 069

73 - Task 5.13 Large Market Operations under NDAAs 2017 & 2019 - Can the government confirm the place of performance for contractors supporting the large market offices?

No, the Government cannot confirm at this time. Please refer to PWS 1.7.1 Place of Performance and suggestions may be a part of the proposed solution.

Question # 070

81 - The table of Recurring Task Estimates - The table of Recurring Task Estimates references “Direct Labor Categories (Fully Burdened/Loaded)”, but appears to be describing the CLINs, and not specific LCATs. Please clarify whether these are the intended labor categories against which offerors should price.

Please refer to the PWS, page 81 Estimated Workload data historical information. The information is provided for informational purpose and is not to be construed as either mandatory or necessarily the best technical approach. The Government has provided a CLIN structure for performance of associated PWS tasks and a list of Key Personnel. It is up to the interested parties how these wish to staff the requirement. The overall staffing plan needs to be developed by the interested parties.

Question # 071

91 - (ii) Staffing Plan - Will the government accept submission of resumes for additional personnel that the offeror would like to designate as key persons beyond the four positions listed in the RFP?

No, the Government has provided a list of Key Personnel which includes those positions the Government deems most important for execution of the tasks. Please refer to the Instructions to Offerors.

Question # 072

91 - (ii) Staffing Plan; (e) Key Personnel - The government has requested that information be provided on all current and contingent personnel regarding education, relevant experience, etc. Will the government exempt this information from the 30 page-count total for the technical approach/preliminary staffing plan?

Please refer to the Instructions to Offerors. As indicated in the instruction, resumes, letters of intent, etc. do not count towards the 30 page limit.

Question # 073

92 - Minimum Requirements for Key Personnel – Program Manager Minimum Requirements - Under requirements for the Program Manager, the PWS states ”Program Management Professional in Program Management certification and education relevant to the duties. Project Management Professional certification is not an acceptable alternative.” Can the government confirm what certification, if any, it is requiring? Additionally, will the government accept that a certification is in progress at time of proposal submittal?

Please refer to the instructions to Offerors, Key Personnel minimum requirements. The Government will not accept in progress.

Question # 074

94 - (3) Volume 2, Past Performance Instructions - Since past performance is being evaluated on both relevance and confidence, would the government consider increasing the page limit to 2 pages per past performance reference?

The Government will not accept references beyond the 2 page limit. Please refer to the Instructions to Offerors.

Question # 075

95 - Pricing - Hawaii is listed as both a large market and part of the Indo-Pacific OCONUS market for pricing purposes. Please confirm the Government could award task orders to support the Hawaii market under either CLIN 0013 or CLIN 0014.

Based on the provided information, the Government could execute Task Orders for Hawaii under CLIN 0013 or 0014.

Question # 076

95- (4) Volume 3, Price Instructions The PWS states, “The Government intends to award a Firm Fixed Price contract.”

Page 104 – (h) – states, “The evaluated total price will include all CLINs in the basic requirement and all CLINs in the period options.” However, throughout the remainder of the document, the procurement is referred to as an FFP- IDIQ contract.

a. Please confirm the Government will award an initial task order to support Task Order #1.

The Government plans to issue a single award IDIQ contract, with Task Order One being awarded in conjunction. This task represents the "re-occurring work" and the base period of this represents the minimum guaranteed amount of the IDIQ. Task Order One and all future Task Orders will be awarded as Firm Fixed Price.

Question # 077 b. Does the “basic requirement” mean Task Order #1?

Affirmative. The basic requirement is Task Order One, which is also referred to as "recurring" work; the base period of which represents the guaranteed minimum of the IDIQ.

Question # 078

c. Please confirm the Government will issue additional task orders as required to support individual markets and regions under CLINs 0012 – 0015. Or will the Government issue a single task order to obtain support for all markets / regions within each CLIN?

The Government confirms that is its intent; to issue Task Orders for future work.

Question # 079

d. Please describe how the price evaluation will consider pricing for CLINs 0012 – 0015 versus the price for Task Order #1 CLINs. Will the Government consider the total price against all CLINs or will the price for CLINs 0012 – 0015 be weighted differently during evaluation?

The Government has provided Attachment 2 with its estimate of labor for CLIN's 0012 through 0016, which will be evaluated in conjunction with the base Task Order pricing. Please pay particular attention to CLIN 0012 for Stand-Alone MTFs. These will roll up under the Markets and is it up to the interested parties to propose a solution.

Question # 080

95 - (4) Volume 3, Price Instructions The PWS states, “The Government also anticipates that as the number of assignments, in the form of markets and/or individual MTFs, increases, the learning curve and economies of scale will enable the Contractor to provide discounts.” Questions:

a. Does the Government consider proposed pricing for CLINs 0012 – 0015 to be ceiling prices from which the contractor will be asked to provide discounts at the time of task order award?

The Government will utilize one unit price to execute Task Orders. The price will not be renegotiated every time a Task Order is issued. The statement has been removed.

Question # 081

b. If yes, please explain how price quotes for CLINs 0012

– 0015 will be evaluated as part of the overarching evaluation of price proposals.

The Government will utilize one unit price to execute Task Orders. The price will not be renegotiated every time a Task Order is issued. The statement has been removed.

Question # 082

Tech Exh 6 - Pricing Sheet Final - For CLINs 0012 – 0015, the IDIQ Pricing (2) tab states “Performance for each [Market Type] is the same regardless of location” and requests a single unit price for each CLIN.

a. Does the Government intend to award task orders to support individual markets or does the Government intend to award a single task order on each CLIN to support all of the markets contained within that CLIN?

Please refer to the Pricing Sheet. Each CLIN identifies the associated Markets. The Government intends to award a single Task Order to include individual markets.

The Government will not issue a single award Task Order for all markets.

Question # 083

b. If the Government is requesting a single unit price for each market type, please describe the Government’s intent in asking for price breakdowns for each individual market.

Please refer to the Instructions to Offerors and the Pricing Sheet. Within the Pricing Sheet there are two tabs: the first tab has the monthly totals for each year and instructions. The second tab provides a breakdown to follow.

Question # 084

82 -Part 7, Att 2 Material and Supply Table Please confirm that the contractor is responsible for providing all the materials and supplies identified in the Material and Supply table on pg. 82 of RFP.

Yes, the awardee will be responsible for providing all Materials and Supplies. There are no ODCs for this requirement.

Question # 085 Also, please provide a list of all Material and Supplies currently being utilized.

Please see the PWS Estimated Workload Data. A list based on historical information had been provided for informational purpose only. No other list of Materials and Supplies will be provided.

Question # 086

82 - Part 7, Att 2 Material and Supply Table - Will the Government please confirm the possible locations of the Hotel Suite required for the 3 days (with a quantity of 4 times?)

The Estimated Workload Data is historical information only. The Government will not confirm possible locations of the Hotel Suite.

Question # 087

71 - Task 5.10, Item b. Broadcast and Video Production Support - The RFP states, “b. Produce a minimum of one weekly news program of two-to- five minutes in length at the discretion of the Government lead for dissemination to all MTFs to be used as an information source in selected areas of the MTF to include pharmacies and waiting rooms.”

Kindly provide the maximum number of weekly news programs and all technical specifications (e.g. video quality, photography resolution, digital/audio) required.

The Government anticipates a maximum of two weekly news programs with the required quality sufficient for broadcasting to Military hospitals and clinics.

Question # 088

69 - 5.8.1 Support Materials and Other expenditures & 81 Attachment 2 - Estimated Workload Data - The RFP states, “The Contractor shall acquire all necessary materials and services to successfully accomplish the tasks of this PWS.

Acquiring the necessary materials and services will not be reimbursed as an Other Direct Cost to the Government.

These materials and services shall include, but not be limited to, the following:

- Subscriptions tools: Social Media Management Analytic Solutions (currently Sprout Social); Media Monitoring and Analysis Services (currently Meltwater); and premium photos, graphics, images (currently ThinkStock).

- Conference and outreach materials to support all necessary amenities, includes: Exhibit booth and display backwall; carpet and padding; electricity to booth (amp, extension cord, power strip); Wi-Fi connection for booth;

standard booth amenities (table, table cloth, blank backdrop, trash can); chairs and/or bar stools as appropriate for the event; work space at hotel; AV package (includes audio), conference registration fees, and other materials as required to accomplish the mission. Current Conferences Are: American Legion; Veteran of Foreign Wars (VFW);

Enlisted Association of the National Guard of the United States (EANGUS); Association of Military Surgeons of the United States (AMSUS). The Government stated that “PWS attachment 2 shows a historical estimate of materials that were used in previous similar work.” However, neither the historical estimate of materials nor PWS contains sufficient details for pricing. Kindly request that the Government provide additional information required to allow for equal information for all bidders and ensure uniform pricing across bidders for evaluation (e.g.

maximum number of subscription tools, conference and outreach materials, number of attendees, registration fees, exhibit booth size, and number of exhibit booths)?

No additional information will be provided by the Government. Please refer to the PWS and Estimated Workload Data. The Government has provided all the available historical information. PWS Section 5.8 provides task information. It is the interested party's responsibility to propose a solution that includes the information in task 5.8.1.

Question # 089

48-49 - 1.11.1 & 1.14.2 Common Access Card & Non- Disclosure Agreement - Can the government specify if completed CAC and NDA forms will be considered outside of page count? If so, will completed CAC and NDA forms be acceptable to include as an appendix?

Please refer to the PWS and Instructions to Offerors.

Common Access Card & Non-Disclosure Agreement are PWS deliverables and required. The Instructions to Offerors provides the page count for Volume 1, Technical.

Question # 090 General - Will the government allow for an established Joint Venture Mentor Protégé to bid this opportunity?

All interested parties must comply with the solicitation requirements and have small business status at time of award. As a reminder, in order for a Joint Venture Mentor Protégé to be able to bid on contracts reserved for small businesses, you must follow the requirements set forth under the program.

Question # 091 General - Who are the current incumbents performing this work or some elements of this task order?

There is no incumbent for this IDIQ requirement. The work of Task Order One is currently being performed by RACK-WILDNER & REESE, INC. - AKOYA under contract HT001119C0025.

Question # 092

69 Task 5.9 Health.mil Web Management Support Who currently provides support for health.mil as outlined in the

RFP?

Is this work performed by incumbent contractor(s)? If so, please identify the name of the contractor(s)?

There is no incumbent for this IDIQ requirement. The work of Task Order One is currently being performed by RACK-WILDNER & REESE, INC. - AKOYA under contract HT001119C0025.

Question # 093

92 (f) Minimum Requirements for Key Personnel The requirement states, “Program Management Professional in Program Management certification and education relevant to the duties. Project Management Professional certification is not an acceptable alternative.”

Please confirm that DAWIA Program Manager Level 3 certification is equivalent to the Program Management Professional program management certification.

No, DAWIA Program Manager Level 3 certification will not be accepted as equivalent by the Government. Please refer to the Instructions to Offerors - Minimum Requirements for Key Personnel.

Question # 094 96 - Section 5 - OCI - Is this part of page count? Please refer to Instructions to Offerors, as stated therein OCI information is not part of the Page Count.

Question # 095

91, 102 - (f) Factor 1 Technical - General - Does the government mean Task 5.4 as opposed to 5.14?

We cannot find Task 5.14 in the PWS and 5.4 on page 62 aligns appropriately to the request.

The Government notes the discrepancy. It will make corrections to the solicitation via amendment to the RFP.

Question # 096

90 - (m) & (n) Offer Submission Instructions & Offer Content and Format Submission requirements start with section (m).

Please confirm that the submission requirements are complete and are numbered correctly.

Please refer to the Instructions to Offerors. Clause 52.212-1 is incorporated by reference, please refer to the full text of the clause. The next Section is Addendum

52.212.1 which is the amended part of the clause.

Question # 097

46 - 1.7.1 Place of Performance Section 1.7.1 states, “…The work shall be performed primarily at Defense Health Headquarters (DHHQ), 7700 Arlington Blvd., Falls Church, VA, 20042…”

Please confirm that place of performance will be DHHQ (Government site), contractor site or both.

Please refer to PWS 1.7.1. Government and Contractor locations.

Question # 098

46 - 1.7.1 Place of Performance Section 1.7.1 states, “…based on availability of space, an alternative space at the contractor’s office facility shall be authorized to perform some of the tasks in coordination with the Government’s COR approval…”

Based off of historical estimates, kindly provide the number of Government furnished work spaces available for contractor personnel.

Historically, there have been 15-20 work spaces furnished by the Government.

Question # 099

Technical Exhibit 6 - IDIQ Pricing tab Based on the RFP Estimated Workload and the breakout provided by Attachment 6 Pricing, it is unclear if the Government expects the contractor to provide onsite support for all the markets identified (e.g. Small, Large, Indo-Pacific and Europe OCONUS). Kindly clarify the OCONUS onsite requirements.

Please refer to the PWS Estimated Workload Data. The information provided is historical only. It is the interested party’s responsibility to provide the appropriate mix of labor and labor categories based on the requirements of the PWS. There is no correlation between the Estimated Workload Data and the IDIQ Pricing Sheet.

Question # 100

55 - 4.2 Secret Facility Clearance Section 4.2 states “4.2 Secret Facility Clearance: Not Applicable”.

Please confirm that security clearances are not required of contractor personnel.

The required clearance for Contractor personnel for this requirement is for Public Trust Only.

Question # 101

94 - (3) Volume 2, Past Performance Instructions - RFP Instructions state “Volume 2 shall not include information related to the offer price.”, however instructions within the Tech Exhibit 3 Past Performance Questionnaire require contract value and dollar value.

Please clarify past performance response requirements related to funding level and contract ceiling.

Please refer to the Instructions to Offerors for Past Performance Reference instructions. TECHNICAL EXHIBIT 3 is the Past Performance Questionnaire.

These are two separate items. Neither Section speaks to a relationship funding level and contract ceiling.

Question # 102

TECHNICAL EXHIBIT 3 - 1 & 2 - Part I and Part II - Past Performance Questionnaire Exhibit response requirements list “Contract amount” in two places.

Kindly consider updating the Technical Exhibit 3 be updated to request contract amount and funded amount to more accurately allow the government to evaluate contract size.

The Government will not update the Past Performance Questionnaire to reflect a contract amount and funded amount. There is a contract amount in each part (I & II) of the Past Performance Questionnaire.

Question # 103

Pricing Sheet - Various - “Labor category” is listed within several sections of the subject RFP files, however labor category requirements are not provided. To help ensure some level of bid consistency between Offerors and to ensure the PWS work can be performed IAW Government provided level of effort estimates, please provide non-key labor categories, descriptions and requirements to ensure personnel with the appropriate education, certifications, and work experience are bid to perform the PWS work.

The Government will not provide a list of non-key labor categories, descriptions and requirements for appropriate education, certifications, and work experience. This is for the interested party to propose as part of the solution to completing the PWS tasks.

Question # 104

63 - Part 5 – 5.0 Specific TasksTask Order - Number One - Task 5.5 Senior Leader Communications - (Deliverable 11) Paragraph J states: “This product shall be fully completed (includes review and approval process) two months prior to the subject month, i.e. April 1 for July monthly theme.”

April is three (3) months prior to July. Please update accordingly.

The Government determined that no update is required.

Please refer back to Section J. Two months prior to the subject month. July is the subject month of the example.

April is two months prior.

Question # 105

73 - Part 5 – 5.0 Specific Tasks Task Order - Number One - Task 5.12 Communications support to DHA Small Market and Stand-Alone MTF Office Paragraph D states: . . . All social media will be approved by a Government public affairs officer. Produce weekly social media. At least one daily social media product shall be produced. Is “daily” defined as a business day or a calendar day

Daily is defined as calendar day in Task 5.12.

Question # 106 Is this a new requirement, or is this follow-on work to a recent or existing contract?

There is no incumbent for this IDIQ requirement. The work of Task Order One is currently being performed by RACK-WILDNER & REESE, INC. - AKOYA under contract HT001119C0025.

Question # 107 If this is follow-on work, what is the name of the incumbent contractor, and what is the contract number?

There is no incumbent for this IDIQ requirement. The work of Task Order One is currently being performed by RACK-WILDNER & REESE, INC. - AKOYA under contract HT001119C0025.

Question # 108

Section 52.216-22 Indefinite Quantity, states that “The government may issue orders requiring delivery to multiple destinations or performance at multiple locations.” Does the government anticipate OCONUS beyond the Indo- Pacific and Europe locations identified in the solicitation?

No, the Government does not anticipate OCONUS beyond the Indo-Pacific and Europe locations as identified in the solicitation.

Question # 109

Section 52.216-22 Indefinite Quantity, states that “The government may issue orders requiring delivery to multiple destinations or performance at multiple locations.” Does the government anticipate any needs for professional global translation services, interpretation services, and/or multi-lingual staff?

No, the government does not anticipate any needs for professional global translation services, interpretation services, and/or multi-lingual staff.

Question # 110 Section 1.14.8 Plain Language references “Plain Language Standards”. Can the government identify the Plain Language Standard referenced?

The Plain Language Standard referenced in Section

1.14.8 is the Plain Writing Act of 2011

Question # 111 Section 1.14.8 Plain Language references a class for Plain Language Standards. What information is available on this class (i.e., class length, location, etc)?

This is a Government provided class on Plain Language and the Government will make all information available when required.

Question # 112

Reference the Program Manager Minimum Requirements, the solicitation states that “Project Management Professional certification is not an acceptable alternative.”

What is the specific certification requirement for the Program Manager position?

Please refer to the Instructions to Offerors, Key Personnel minimum requirements. A Professional Program Management Certification is required.

Question # 113

p. 54. PART 3. 3.0 GOVERNMENT FURNISHED PROPERTY, EQUIPMENT, AND SERVICES -Will mobile phones be proved to the four key personnel? If not, will the COR allow phones paid for by the offeror and with plans paid for by the offeror to be licensed and set up on the DHA network.

No, the Government will not provide mobile phones to Key Personnel. Phones provided by the awardee will not be set up on the DHA network.

Question # 114

PART 5 5.0 SPECIFIC TASKS (56-75) Inconsistencies re:

conferences, travel and materials requirements:

Pg 67 (b) mentions “special software” for calendaring that is not listed in material and supply table table on p. 82. Is that contractor or government furnished software?

“The MHS News Center will maintain an annual news and events calendar for long range planning and allocation of communications assets. This calendar will be all inclusive of events across the entire MHS Enterprise. Contractor will use special software for ease of adding and editing events to the calendar. A planning calendar and planning system shall be submitted NLT 60 days after the award of the contract for review and approval by the government.”

The preference is for Government software. In addition, this also means interested parties may propose appropriate software or program for this type of effort in the solution.

Question # 115

Pg 69 (c) says travel for up to 20 events annually. 5.8.1 on the same page lists “current conferences” but only identifies

4. P. 66 (i), lists the 4 conferences. The table on p. 82 calls out travel requirements for 5 conferences, and conference material requirements for 10 conferences. Please clarify the number of events/conferences anticipated, whether planned, managed, or only supported, and locations CONUS or

OCONUS.

The information in PWS Estimated Workload Data is historical information only and states any proposal should be based on requirements within the PWS. Please refer to the information provided in the PWS.

Question # 116

P. 73, Task 5.13 covers Military Treatment Facilities in 20 large market offices in the United States, and includes an estimated two overseas Defense Health Regions overseas (Europe and Indo-Pacific). However, the Pricing Volume breaks out Indo-Pacific and Europe into separate items 5.14 and 5.15. Should the Technical Volume address Europe and Indo-Pacific in Task 5.13 or should they be addressed in separate (omitted) tasks 5.14 and 5.15?

Any reference to 5.14, 5.15 and 5.16 will be removed via amendment to the solicitation. Information related to Europe and Indo-Pacific is located in PWS 5.13 and have been assigned separate CLINS. Please refer to the PWS and solicitation for the CLIN structure. The pricing sheet has the correct PWS Task 5.13 and utilizes separate CLINs for those markets.

Question # 117

INSTRUCTIONS TO OFFERORS (P. 88 – 100)

5. Please confirm Offerors are not responsible for registering with the OFCCP National Preaward Registry.

Our research on OFCCP indicates that Contracting Officers only are able to place companies on the Preaward Registry.

If this is not correct, then how does an Offeror register? We have contacted OFCCP but have received no reply.

p. 89. “All interested parties shall provide evidence they have registered at the OFCCP’ s National Preaward Registry via the Internet atCaution-https://ofccp.dol-esa.gov/preaward/pa_reg.html < Caution-https://ofccp.dol-esa.gov/preaward/pa_reg.html > at proposal submittal. This shall be submitted with Volume 3 Price.”

p. 96. “Volume 3 Price Instructions, (v) Offeror’s evidence they have registered at the OFCCP’s National Preaward Registry via the Internet atCaution-https://ofccp.dol-esa.gov/preaward/pa_reg.html < Caution-https://ofccp.dol-esa.gov/preaward/pa_reg.html > at proposal submittal.”

The Government contacted OFCCP to confirm the submission process and will revise this Section, See Amendment 0001. Interested parties are not required to self-register.

Question # 118 Is a Transition-In Plan required with proposal submission?

Please refer to PWS Section 1.6.1 Transition. The information in this Section does not require a Transition- In Plan and there is no deliverable for a Transition-In Plan.

Question # 119

P. 90-91. Regarding Vol. 1 requirements – should the Offeror address technical understanding and approach for all Tasks 5.1 through 5.13, or only for four specific subtasks:5.1 h, 5.1.r, 5.1u, and 5.14.i? Also, please confirm that 5.14.i is a typo and should be 5.13.i.

The reference to 5.14 will be corrected and revised, see Amendment 0001. Please refer to the Instructions to Offerors and Evaluation Criteria. The Sections are listed under Technical Approach: 5.1.h, 5.1.r, 5.1.u and 5.13. i.

5.13.i is the correct for 5.14.i.

Question # 120

P. 92, (f) Minimum Requirements for Key Personnel.