Q&A_10GB_Wave_Service_RFQRML1943775.pdf

Questions and Answers 10GB Optical Wave Transport Service Lease Renewal

Solicitation ID: RFQ-RML-1943775 1/9/2018

Q: I’m hoping to find out if there is an incumbent contractor currently performing these services or if this is a new requirement. If there is an incumbent, could you provide the contract number?

A: The incumbent is Qwest Government Services (CenturyLink). The last contract number for this requirement was HHSN272201801080P.

Q: I understand that the start date for the project is January 27th this year. What are the NIAID’s expectations for this date? Does the service need to be fully functional or does setup begin on that date?

A: The current service expires 1/26/2019. NIAID will expect a new vendor to quickly transition and provide full service ASAP.

Q: Does NIAID require total path diversity from both CenturyLink/L3 and Zayo on the route between 350 Cermak and 43830 Devin Shafron Dr.?

A: Total path diversity is preferred where possible.

Q: Is the requirement for the 10 Gigs to be on a 100 Gigs port? Or just the ability to scale to 100 Gigs over time?

A: NIAID is planning to upgrade the circuit to 100G in the near future but for now a 10G handoff is what we are currently utilizing. NIAID will stick with the standard 10Gig wave for now.

Q: Would you require route maps along with the quote?

A: Yes, a route map is desirable.

Q: What is the desired response template? I understand that a quote with a dollar figure is required and assurance that all requirements in the SOW can be fulfilled. Should we respond with how we can fulfil each requirement or will just a Yes/No for each requirement suffice?

A: NIAID expects that offerors will provide the necessary information for NIAID to fully evaluate their quote in accordance with the evaluation criteria.