Persuasion_QA__4-8-15.docx

1. In your Section L.1, sub-point 9 (Offer Packages) you request "One Original copy of signed addenda (A copy can be found as an attachment within the http://redirect.state.sbu/?url=www.fbo.gov listing)."

Does this refer to the full list of FARs, Representations, and Certifications? If not, please advise on whether there is a separate addenda or attachment you're seeking.

Answer: The posting now has the addenda as an attachment

2. Section M. Evaluation Factors, Paragraph 3.2 Evaluation of Oral Presentations: Are oral presentations anticipated?

Answer: The government may or may not conduct oral presentations. This determination cannot be made at this time.

3. Section G. Invoicing Instructions: The solicitation states that the FFP may be invoiced upon completion and FSI approval of all requirements. This places an undue burden on small businesses and consultant SMEs. May small businesses request interim FFP invoicing based on FSI acceptance of deliverables?

Answer: No, the contract type will remain FFP upon completion of all requirements.

4. Section C. Statement of Work, Paragraph 2.1: Will FSI consider the inclusion of other relevant content sources, beyond those listed in the solicitation?

Answer: Yes, it will.

5. Pilot Course Delivery: When is the pilot course scheduled to be presented?

Answer: The pilot will be scheduled after the materials have been prepared and approved by FSI.

6. Pilot Course Delivery: is the contractor responsible for reproduction and/or distribution of pre-course, course, and post-course materials to pilot participants?

Answer: No.

7. Pilot Course Delivery: does the anticipated contract include, as part of the pilot course delivery, the post-course virtual session 4-6 weeks following course conclusion?

Answer: Yes.

8. Can you please provide FSI’s definition of “continuous learning environment/element?” If possible, please provide information on platforms used in continuous learning elements at FSI. Is the Contractor required to build anything for use on the continuous learning platform (i.e. blog or other web-based elements)?

Answer: The Contractor is not required to build any blog or web-based elements. The continuous learning environment is a general term referring to further training to enhance students’ understanding and application of the subject. The Contractor is not required to build any blog or web-based elements.

9. Can you please clarify requirement 3.2.9, “design a job-specific scenario/project?” How many different scenarios will need to be created? Is the requirement one scenario for every Foreign & Civil Service cone/career track?

Answer: The number of scenarios will depend how the course is developed and how complex the scenarios are. It is fair to assume that at least one scenario will be necessary for each Foreign Service cone.

10. We understand that the Contractor will not be responsible for delivery of pre-course and continuous learning assignments. Should the Contractor be available to support or advise during the delivery of these elements?

Answer: No.

11. We understand the target period of performance for this requirement is 1 June 2015 - 30 November 2015. If the Contractor is required to be available or provide any support to the delivery of continuous learning elements, then these are expected to take place approximately 4-6 weeks after course conclusion. This would mean that the target delivery of the pilot course would occur in late September or early October 2015 and that pre-work would commence in late August or early September 2015. This would mean that the course design and development would need to be completed by late August 2015. Is this an accurate understanding of the anticipated delivery timeline?

Answer: The students will be given pre-work for the course about two-three weeks before the delivery of the pilot. Assuming the course will be delivered on or about the week of October 5, 2015, the course should be completed by mid-September.