SOL-OAA-12-000103_Amendment_02.pdf

As a result of this Amendment, the specific changes to the solicitation are as follows:

1. On the Cover Letter (Closing Date:), SF-33 Block 9, and in Section L.6(b), DELETE "October 26, 2012" and

REPLACE with "November 5, 2012".

2. Section I.1 NOTICE LISTING CONTRACT CLAUSES INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE, DELETE the following clause references:

52.204-8, Annual Representations and Certifications, FEB 2009

52.209-7, Information Regarding Responsibility Matters, JAN 2011

52.215-2, Audit and Records – Negotiation, JUN 1999

52.219-1, Small Business Program Representation, MAY 2004

52.219-19, Small Business Concern Representation for the Small Business Competition Demonstration Program, OCT 2000

52.219-21, Small Business Size Representation for Targeted Industry Categories under the Small Business

Competitiveness Demonstration Program, MAY 1999

52.219-25, Small Disadvantaged Business Participation Program – Disadvantaged Status and Reporting, APR 2008

52.219-28, Post-Award Small Business Program Representation, APR 2008

52.222-39, Notification of Employee Rights Concerning Payment of Union Dues or Fees, DEC 2004

52.222-54, Employment Eligibility Verification, JAN 2009

52.223-13, Certification of Toxic Chemicals Release Reporting, AUG 2003

52.223-14, Toxic Chemical Release Reporting, AUG 2003

And REPLACE with the following clause references:

52.204-8, Annual Representations and Certifications, May 2012

52.209-7, Information Regarding Responsibility Matters, Feb. 2012

52.215-2, Audit and Records – Negotiation, Oct. 2010

52.219-1, Small Business Program Representation, Apr. 2012

52.219-25, Small Disadvantaged Business Participation Program – Disadvantaged Status and Reporting, Dec. 2010

52.219-28, Post-Award Small Business Program Representation, Apr 2012

52.222-54, Employment Eligibility Verification, July 2012

And Reserved Clauses have been removed.

3. Section L.8(b), third paragraph, ADD the following to the list of items not included in the page limitation:

Branding Implementation Plan and Marking Plan

Resume, Signed Acknowledgement Letter and References

4. Section L.8(c)(1), ADD the following:

“(iv) Institutional capacity to manage diverse resources and implementation of organizational systems;

5. Section L.8(c)(4)(i), ADD the following:

“NOTE: The resume, signed acknowledgement letter and references should be provided in an annex to the technical proposal and will not count as part of the 15-page limitation.”

6. Section L.9(b)(1)(a), INSERT the following:

“The proposed ceiling daily rates will be used in the Price Evaluation Matrix and will be incorporated into the contract as the maximum unburdened ceiling daily rate per Section B.11.”

7. Section L.9(b), INSERT the following:

(4) Offerors shall include a budget narrative detailing how offeror arrived at each ceiling daily rate (CDR). The budget narrative shall also provide accompanying assumptions and explanations germane to the offeror‟s costs, including application of fringe benefits, overhead and other indirect rates. The bulk of this narrative should be used to justify the offeror‟s proposed CDRs. The budget narrative shall not exceed nine (9) pages.

8. Section M.2(a) second bullet – DELETE and REPLACE with the following:

Demonstrated institutional capacity to manage diverse resources and implementation of organizational systems;

9. Section M.3, DELETE the language in its entirety and REPLACE with the following language:

“(a) The price/business evaluation will be conducted in accordance with the Price Evaluation Matrix (Attachment

J.5).

(b) USAID will conduct a price analysis to determine if the proposed fixed prices (i.e., the ceiling daily rates, ceiling indirect cost rates, and ceiling on fixed fee) are reasonable. This evaluation is conducted with the expectation of adequate price competition and will rely heavily on market forces to determine whether proposed prices are fair and reasonable. The comparison of proposed prices in response to this solicitation is the preferred and intended price analysis technique. USAID will also compare the proposed prices to historical prices paid for the same or similar services and the independent government cost estimate. Other techniques and procedures set forth in FAR 15.404-1(b), if deemed necessary, may be used to ensure proposed prices are fair and reasonable.

(c) A cost realism analysis will be performed to determine whether the proposed prices are realistic for the work to be performed, reflect a clear understanding of the requirements, and are consistent with the unique methods of performance set forth in the offeror‟s technical proposal and budget narrative.

10. Attachment J.5, DELETE Note 3 in its entirety, and REPLACE with the following:

[Note 3: The application of indirect cost line items in the budget proposal may be adjusted by the offeror pursuant to the application of indirect cost rates set forth in the prime offeror‟s NICRA. Offerors must apply the appropriate indirect recovery rate(s) to Attachment J.5(A) in accordance with the Offeror‟s NICRA.]

11. Attachment J.5, DELETE Note 5 in its entirety and REPLACE with the following:

“For the positions set forth below the price for these positions will be determined by using the CDR and the prime offeror‟s methodology for recovery of paid absences (leave and holidays). The offeror must enter the appropriate labor cost and paid absences in the Sample Budget below. The budget narrative must clearly and accurately demonstrate the price and method of recovery for workdays and paid absences for all labor categories where applicable. ”

12. Attachment J.5, SAMPLE BUDGET, DELETE in its entirety and REPLACE with the following:

SAMPLE BUDGET

A. Labor:

Category 1:

"260 person-days less paid absence days"{Long-Term (Home Office) US-based} * $625: $150,000.00

"Offeror to provide days Paid Absence: $ 12,500.00

Category 2:

"260 person-days less paid absence days"{Long-Term (Field-based} * $625: $150,000.00

"Offeror to provide days Paid Absence: $ 12,500.00

Category 3:

"40 person-days"{Short-Term US-based Consultant} * $500: $ 20,000.00

Category 4:

"40 person-days"{Short-Term US-based Consultant} * $500: $ 20,000.00

“40 person-days”{Short-Term Local-Hire}*$500: $ 20,000.00

Offeror to provide days Paid Absence: $ 5,000.00

Category 5:

"60 person-days"{Short-Term (Home Office) US-based} * $500: $ 30,000.00

Offeror to provide days Paid Absence: $ 5,000.00

"60 person-days"{Short-Term Field-based} * $500: $ 30,000.00

Category 6:

"80 person-days"{Short Term (Home Office) US-based} * $300: $ 24,000.00

Offeror to provide days Paid Absence: $ 5,000.00

"80 person-days"{Short Term Local-Hire} * $300: $ 24,000.00

Category 7:

"60 person-days"{Short-Term (Home Office) US-based} * $300: $ 18,000.00

Offeror to provide days Paid Absence: $ 5,000.00

"60 person-days"{Short-Term Field-based} * $300: $ 18,000.00

Category 8:

"40 person-days"{Short-Term US-based Consultant} * $300: $ 12,000.00

“40 person-days”{Short-Term Local-Hire}*$300: $ 12,000.00

Category 9:

"30 person-days"{Short-Term US-based Consultant} * $300: $ 9,000.00

“30 person-days”{Short-Term Local-Hire}*$300: $ 9,000.00

Total Labor Costs $571,000.00

B. Fringe Benefits:

Fringe Benefits on LT US-Based Personnel: __________

Fringe Benefits on LT Field-Based Personnel: __________

Fringe Benefits on Consultants: __________

Fringe Benefits on Local-Hires: __________

C. Indirect Recovery on Labor: __________

Other Direct Costs

D - Offeror Travel and Transportation “$100,000.00”

E - Sub Travel and Transportation “$ 50,000.00”

F - Offeror Allowances “$ 75,000.00”

G - Sub Allowances “$ 50,000.00”

H - Offeror ODCs “$ 75,000.00”

I - Sub ODCs “$ 50,000.00”

J - Equipment “$ 50,000.00”

K - SubGrants “$100,000.00”

K.1 SubGrants with LOC “$ 50,000.00”

L - Indirects on D __________

M - Indirects on E __________

N - Indirects on F __________

O - Indirects on G __________

P - Indirects on H __________

Q - Indirects on I __________

R - Indirects on J __________

S - Indirects on K __________

T - Indirects on K.1 __________

U – Indirect Recover on ODCs __________

Total ODCs + Applicable Indirect Costs: __________

Fixed Fee (Not including Subgrants): ___% __________

Total Estimated Subgrant Costs __________

Fixed Fee (On Subgrant Costs): ___% __________

Fixed Fee (On Subgrant Costs w/LOC): ___% __________

Total Estimated Cost-Plus-Fixed-Fee: __________

ATTACHMENT J.7

Questions submitted prior to the August 27 th deadline.

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

1. Question: re. Sample Budget, pp. 122-123: USAID provides both U.S. and ‟local‟ daily rates for specialists in categories 4 through 9 ($500/day for both U.S. and locals in Cats. 4-5; $300/day for both U.S. and locals in Cats 6-9). May bidders propose different average daily rates for local-hire staff, based on their knowledge of actual local-specialist base rates in countries where the bidders may currently operate?

Response: No. As stated in Attachment J.5, the Government will utilize the Offeror‟s proposed unburdened ceiling daily rates.

2. Question: re. Instructions in RFP Section L.8., page 101: Given that the Case Study Work Plan section of the technical proposal is allotted up to 6 pages and that those 6 pages are not counted among the basic maximum of

15 pages, can USAID confirm that, including the Work Plan‟s 6 pages, the main text of the technical volume can contain up to 21 pages?

Response: Per the guidance in Section L.8, the Case Study Work Plan is not to be included in the 15-page technical proposal limitation and, thus, should be submitted as an appendix to the Technical Proposal.

3. Question: Based on page 50 info: Does the bidding company/prime contractor required to use AWACC for workers compensation insurance coverage or can a comparable company providing the same coverage be used?

Response: USAID‟s Defense Base Act (DBA) Insurance provider is Allied World Assurance Company (AWAC).

Contractors must contact AWAC to obtain DBA insurance.

4. Question: Based on page 55 info: Will the prime contractor be allowed and/or expected to avail itself of

USAID bilaterals or Memorandums of Understanding with foreign govts. in order to be considered exempt from local tax liabilities?

Response: The contractor will be fully expected to assist Missions and targeted institutions in developing initial

Memorandums of Understanding (MOU) between USAID and these institutions, as well as with any logistical arrangements. Tax requirements differ for each country; local tax liabilities would need to be addressed on a country-by-country and/or task order-by-task order basis.

5. Question: Based on page 58 info: Is the prime contractor expected to procure commodities/equipment in the foreign countries or in the U.S., which can then later be imported into the country?

Response: As stated in clause H.9 of the RFP, the authorized geographic code for procurement of goods and services is Geographic Code 937 (the United States, the cooperating/recipient country, and developing countries other than advanced developing countries, and excluding prohibited sources), or as specified in Task Orders.

USAID maintains a list of developing countries, advanced developing countries, and prohibited sources, which are available in USAID's Automated Directives System, ADS 310.

Clause H.24 provides guidance related to Source and Nationality Requirements. Additional guidance for rules related to procurement is referenced: 22 CFR 228 “Rules on Procurement of Commodities and Services Financed by USAID Federal Program Funds”.

6. Question: The Labor Category chart on page 8 and other references speak in the singular, for example, of one HICD specialist. Is it intended that there will be only one individual proposed per labor category or may offerors propose more than one?

Response: The RFP does not request personnel for each labor category. The only personnel requested is the IDIQ manager as listed in section L.

7. Question: Result 3 on page 23 speaks of providing HICD services to local organizations. Is it accurate that any such services would be paid for by the organizations themselves or host-country governments? How will the offeror be evaluated in terms of this result?

Response: Services provided under Result 3 will be subject to terms and conditions negotiated with the host country governments and/or local organizations, separate and outside of the framework of this IDIQ as stated in the

RFP.

8. Question: The level of experience and range of requirements for the IDIQ Manager (Section C: Result 4 –

IDIQ Central Management: Pages 23 and 24) seriously limit the number of individuals available to be able to be identified and proposed by bidders to achieve the number of intended awards between the HICDPro non-CPC and

CPC projects, especially given the position is initially unfunded and can only be funded through accumulation of a sufficient number of task orders against which to budget and bill the time. For small businesses the cost of retaining someone full-time for what would be at least for an initial period with no funding or limited funding will be a serious limitation.

a. Also, the level of practitioner described with the required certification and the number of years of experience required providing technical services would not typically have also managed “projects of a similar size and scope in an international context, (i.e. a five year, multi-million, multiple country IDIQ or IQC).”

Response: All Offerors must meet minimum requirements in the RFP.

b. Would USAID allow bidders to divide the responsibilities by separating the overall contract and task order management responsibilities and the technical oversight and input?

Response: Offerors are only subject to the requirements contained in the RFP, including the scope of work and clauses.

c. Also, the requirements appear to limit individuals to those living in the Washington, DC area given the requirement to “meet and consult regularly with the IDIQ COR”. Will teleconference or other remote means of meeting be acceptable and considered responsive in relation to this requirement?

Response: There are no requirements in the RFP, limiting individuals to be based in

Washington, DC. Offerors are only required to meet the requirements contained in the scope of work.

9. Question:

a. Section M.2 (d) on page 109 and Section C.4 on page 24 list the criteria for the IDIQ Manager stating: “It is required that the IDIQ Manager be designated as a Certified Performance Technologist (CPT) by the

International Society for Performance Improvement (ISPI), and/or certified in Human Performance Improvement

(HPI) by the American Society for Training and Development (ASTD), or have a minimum of eight years of experience in applying organizational development methods and theories in government or other institutions in developing countries…” However, Section L.8 (4) Management on page 103 requires that the offerors “explicitly identify the proposed Manager‟s CPT designation and/or HPI certification.”

Response: Correct, if the proposed IDIQ manager holds CPT designation or HPI certification this is required to be explicitly identified.

b. Could USAID please confirm that the proposed IDIQ Manager may have a minimum of 8 years of experience in applying organizational development methods, etc., that is clearly demonstrated on their resume in lieu of the specific ISPI or ASTD certification?

Response: Yes, USAID confirms this.

10. Question: Section L.9. Part 9: Are all subcontractors (or only major subcontractors) required to submit

Information Concerning Work-Day, Work-Week and Paid absences?

Response: Only major subcontractors.

11. Question: Section C. Result 3 “Providing local organization-funded HICD services: Could USAID please clarify that the statement “Any requests from host governments would be conducted outside of the framework of this IDIQ” refers to requests for direct funding and not for HICD performance assessments or performance solutions packages that would be channeled through relevant USAID missions?

Response: Services provided under Result 3 will be subject to terms and conditions negotiated with the host country governments and/or local organizations, separate and outside of the framework of this IDIQ as stated in the

RFP.

12. Question: Section L.8.(3): Could USAID clarify if offerors could provide illustrative CVs for the case study in the annex?

Response: Resumes are not required for case study.

13. Question: Per p. 7 of the RFP, section B.9 (d) states that “when USAID requires services or reports and other deliverables covered by this Contract in a Task Order amount of more than $20,000,000, the contractor is not obligated to bid on an order to furnish those services or reports and other deliverables under this Contract.

However, if the contractor agrees to furnish services or reports and other deliverables required by USAID in excess of $20,000,000 and awarded a Task Order to do so, the contractor is required to provide said services and reports/deliverables in accordance with the Contracts terms and conditions.” Is this not true for all Task Orders under this contract, regardless of the amount? Thank you for clarifying the meaning of Maximum Order amount.

Response: Yes, this requirement would be true for all task orders issued under the contract.

14. Question: Per p.8 of the RFP under section B.11, “the Unburdened Ceiling Daily Rates apply to any task order(s) that are awarded under this contract.” Please confirm that CDRs apply for CPFF task orders only, as indicated at the beginning of the said section.

Response: Yes

15. Question: The table on p.8 under section B.11 of the RFP lists nine Labor Categories. What happens if a particular Task Order required personnel that do not fit into any of the nine labor categories? Is there a CDR for

“other” categories?

Response: There are only 9 Labor Categories in total. All task orders will fit into these labor categories.

16. Question: On p.14, Requirement 1.2 consists of “supporting local capacity development service providers and organizations.” What are the types of businesses and organizations that USAID anticipates being included in this category?

Response: All types of organizations and institutions are potentially in this group, including but not limited to:

governmental, non-governmental, private sector, and civil society.

17. Question: On p. 17, the RFP states that “when an institutional performance assessment includes recommended performance solutions that would be implemented by one of the FORECAST II – Participant

Training (PT) implementers, or any other technical assistance implementers available to the sponsoring unit, the contractor shall provide coordination allowing for the integration of these solutions and their results into the overall

HICD initiative.” Does USAID anticipate that all PT activities to be conducted for HICD initiatives will be carried out by FORECAST II contractors? Or will HICDpro contractors also be expected to deliver PT services?

Response: HICDPro contractors will only be required to provide listed in Section C.

18. Question: On p. 24 of the RFP, under Result 4 (IDIQ Central Management) of section C.4, USAID states that: “It is required that the IDIQ Manager be designated as a Certified Performance Technologist (CPT) by the

International Society for Performance Improvement (ISPI) (www.ispi.org) and/or certified in Human Performance

Improvement (HPI) by the American Society for Training and Development (ASTD) (www.astd.org) or have a minimum of eight years of experience in applying organizational development methods and theories in government or other institutions in developing countries, and shall have a solid grasp of the physical and psychological challenges inherent in working in in these environments.” Later on, on p. 103, under section L.8 (c)(4) on

Management, the RFP details that “the IDIQ Manager‟s resume shall explicitly identify the proposed IDIQ

Manager‟s CPT designation and/or HPI certification.” Please confirm that the CPT designation and/or HPI certification are not required for the IDIQ Manager position and can be substituted with “a minimum of eight years of experience in applying organizational development methods and theories in government or other institutions in developing countries”?

Response: USAID can confirm that the IDIQ manager must be HPI certified or CPT designated or have eight years of experience in in applying organizational development methods and theories in government or other institutions in developing countries. In addition, the IDIQ manager must also satisfy the requirements set forth in regards to academic degrees on the top of p. 24 of the RFP.

http://www.ispi.org/ http://www.astd.org/

19. Question: On p.109-110, section M.2 (a) on Corporate Capability, the Evaluation Factors for Award for

"Corporate Capability" lists four bullets, three of which correspond word for word with the three numbered bullets listed on p.102 in section L.8 (1). Should the listing in this latter section include the fourth bullet as well -

"Demonstrated ability evidenced by organizational commitment and organizational systems designed to utilize all available resources"?

Response: Please see revision made with this amendment.

20. Question: On p. 121, “Price Evaluation Matrix”, please confirm that the offeror is required to provide a sample budget for one year only, as prescribed.

Response: Instructions are provided in Attachment J.5.

21. Question: Page 8, B.11 (b) Note 1 states that, “The Unburdened Ceiling Daily Rates apply to any task order(s) that are awarded under this contract.” Note 3 states that, “The unburdened ceiling daily rates below do not apply to Firm-Fixed-Price (FFP) Task Orders.” QUESTION: Can you please clarify if the Unburdened ceiling daily rates apply to only CPFF task orders or all task orders?

Response: Yes, the CDRs only apply to CPFF.

22. Question: Page 103, L.8 (c) (3) requests that the offeror submit a Work Plan not exceeding 6-pages. Page

102, L.8 (b) states that the Case Study Work Plan [6 pages maximum] is not included in the page limitation.

Should the workplan be in chart format, narrative format, or a combination of both? If the 6-pages for the workplan is limited to a chart, will a narrative description included in the 15 pages be evaluated?

Response: The offeror is to respond to the requirements contained in the RFP.

23. Question: Page 103, L.8 (c) (2) (A) (i) request that the offeror and each major subcontractor list up to five

(5) of the most recent and relevant contracts for efforts similar to this requirement. Can we submit up to 5 contracts in total or 5 contracts for each major subcontractor as well as the prime offeror?

Response: Offeror is to submit up to 5 contracts for each major subcontractors and up to 5 contracts for the prime offeror.

24. Question: Page 103, L.8 (c) (4) states “The Offeror shall provide a complete and current resume of the proposed IDIQ manager. The Offeror shall also include as part of its proposal a signed acknowledgement letter from the proposed IDIQ Manager confirming his/her present intention to serve in the stated position and his/her present availability to serve for the term of the proposed contract.” Should we include the CV and Letter of

Commitment for the IDIQ Manager in the Technical proposal or the annex?

Response: The resume, signed acknowledgement letter and references should be provided in an annex to the technical proposal and not counted as part of the 15-page limitation. This amendment provides clarification.

25. Question: Reference to page 16, “the contractor should systematically provide the most appropriate partner organizations of HICD initiatives,” does this refer to the selection of our consortium partners for the IDIQ or the selection of potential HICD organization candidates?

Response: This is in reference to partner organizations for HICD initiatives which you may be referring to as

“potential HICD organization candidates”.

26. Question: Please confirm five PPRs for the Offeror and major subcontractors combined or five PPRs for the Offeror and each major subcontractor?

Response: Offeror is to submit up to 5 contracts for each major subcontractor and up to 5 contracts for the prime offeror.

27. Question: What is meant to be included in the “Labor Distribution Chart” referenced in L.8.b on page 102 of the RFP?

Response: See pg. 104: The offeror must also provide a Labor Distribution Chart (See Attachment J.3) as an annex to the Price/Business Proposal identifying the anticipated labor utilization for the prime and all subcontractors.

28. Question: In the RFP‟s Case Study, should bidders assume that the Mission‟s “Human and Institutional

Development Program” in Alderaan an ongoing project implemented by a USAID contractor that will now add the

Ministry of Taxation-Collections department to its existing portfolio? Or should bidders assume that they have no current on-the-ground presence in Alderaan?

Response: Offeror‟s response to the case study should be framed in the context of having no current on-the-ground presence in Alderaan.

29. Question: We would appreciate clarification about USAID‟s definition and policy regarding HICD.

Specifically, to what extent is “HICD” a prescribed methodology as in USAID‟s HICD Handbook, and to what extent a more general philosophy of incorporating the strengthening of institutions into development planning? The policy referenced in ADS201 appears to be more general and does not refer to the USAID HICD Handbook, whereas the Handbook is a much more comprehensive set of prescribed tools and requirements.

Response: HICD as a policy is a broader approach which required Missions to focus on programming more effective and sustainable foreign assistance. HICD as a methodology and as described in the HICD handbook is a specific approach and model in alignment with the HICD policy.

30. Question: On page 15 the RFP refers to a Mission‟s “overall HICD effort across its portfolio.” To what extent are Missions worldwide implementing an overarching HICD effort, and are they using the name “HICD?”

Response: Examples of countries with past USAID-funded HICD programs include and are not limited to Kosovo, Armenia, Nicaragua, Azerbaijan, and Macedonia. Current HICD programs are active in Rwanda and Georgia.

31. Question: In reference to Section C2. The increased use of host country systems is contingent upon strong, accountable, and reliable host country institutions. Is this related to Direct G2G or Sector Budget Support from

USAID to a recipient government (under FORWARD), and hence pre-assessment of fiduciary risk? Or is this related to the selection mechanism suggested in the E3 handbook, by which potential recipients of HICD are assessed along their propensity of being good partners for HICD?

Response: HICD initiatives can be an important component of USAID‟s overall effort to strengthen overall partner country capacity, increase use of reliable partner country systems and institutions, and strengthen local civil society and private sector capacity to improve aid effectiveness and sustainability. In alignment with USAID/Forward, it will be beneficial for HICDpro contractors to be familiar with the USAID/Forward initiative. Host-country organizations and institutions benefitting from a fully or partially, directly or indirectly USAID-funded HICD initiatives will contribute to strengthening host-country systems as such.

32. Question: In reference to Section C3. Under task orders, contractors may also be required to coordinate services available under USAID/E3‟s FORECAST II – Participant Training (PT) contracts. FORECAST II is a centrally managed mechanism designed to provide USAID missions with support on Participant Training and

Capacity Building programs. As the HICD methodology may involve Participant Training in any given HICD initiative‟s performance solution design, it is advantageous to be familiar with FORECAST II as well as ADS 252 and 253. Since Participant Training was already awarded to several contractors in a previous IQC this year, what type of “capability” does USAID means by “contractors may also be required to coordinate services available under

FORECAST II PT”?

Response: Examples of capabilities USAID anticipates include but are not limited to training program design, recommending participants for FORECAST II contractors, and working with FORECAST II contractors on follow up work after training events end.

33. Question: In reference to Result 3 in the RFP, In support of the Agency‟s emphasis on direct funding with host country organizations, HICD initiatives can be used to assist host country institutions in reaching minimum standards that are prerequisites for managing direct USAID procurement mechanisms (i.e., grants and cooperative agreements). In-country organizations endeavoring to enhance their institutional performance may request that

HICDpro contractors provide services and HICD expertise similar to those offered under this IDIQ. Any requests from host governments would be conducted outside of the framework of this IDIQ. Is this above related in any way to fiduciary risk assessments prior to Direct G2G or Sector Budget Support from USAID to a recipient Government

(under FORWARD)?

Response: No.

34. Question: RFP Section B-Supplies or Services and Price/Costs, Sub-Section B.11-Labor Categories -

Unburdened Ceiling Daily Rates, page 10, please confirm that all labor categories are only Senior labor categories?

Can we assume that Junior staff will qualify for these labor categories, as long as their rates are below the ceiling for the Senior level?

Response: Yes, all labor categories are only senior labor categories.

35. Question: RFP Section C-Description/Specifications/ Statement of Work, Result 3, page 23, Is there an expectation that the contractor will be required to certify that host country organizations reach minimum standards to receive direct funding?

Response: No.

36. Question: Please clarify what is meant by “any requests from host governments would be conducted outside of the framework of this IDIQ.”

Response: Services provided under Result 3 will be subject to terms and conditions negotiated with the host country governments and/or local organizations, separate and outside of the framework of this IDIQ as stated in the

RFP.

37. Question: RFP Attachment J.5 – Price Evaluation Matrix, page 121, please confirm that the unburdened ceiling daily rates listed are an example, and the offeror should use their own ceiling daily rates proposed for each labor category.

Response: Yes, the unburdened ceiling daily rates are listed as an example. Offerors should provide their own ceiling daily rates proposed for each labor category. The offeror must use ceiling daily rates provided in Section

B.11.

38. Question: Requirement 1.1 on Page 14 of the RFP refers to “Developing CPT-designated and/or HPI certified expertise in partner organization staff.” However there is no other specific indication that indicates partner organization staff will need to get certification. Is it expected/required that the contractor facilitate the certification

(CPT designation or HPI certified) of partner organization staff ?

Response: As stated in the RFP, the contractor may be tasked with transferring HICD know-how to key performers and other relevant staff within host country partner organizations and to serve as their organization‟s resident HICD coordinator to carry out HPI/HPT through continuous cycles of measured performance improvement. It may or may not be feasible to obtain the actual CPT/HPI certification for in-country key performers, but the contractor may provide transfer of HICD know-how through various means, including coaching, mentoring, and other technical forums.

39. Question: Pages 23-24 of the RFP detail the desired qualification in the IDIQ Manager, including levels of education, experience, and professional qualifications. Please clarify wow many years of experience can be substituted for the IDIQ manager candidate who has CPT certification and a bachelor‟s degree?

Response: As stated in the RFP, it is required that the IDIQ Manager be designated as a Certified Performance

Technologist (CPT) by the International Society for Performance Improvement (ISPI) (www.ispi.org) and/or certified in Human Performance Improvement (HPI) by the American Society for Training and Development

(ASTD) (www.astd.org) or have a minimum of eight years of experience in applying organizational development methods and theories in government or other institutions in developing countries ,and shall have a solid grasp of the physical and psychological challenges inherent in working in in these environments. In addition the IDIQ manager must meet all other qualifications found under Result 4.

40. Question: Page 39 states that there is no Key Personnel associated with the IDIQ award, yet the IDIQ

Manager position features prominently throughout the RFP. Can you confirm that the IDIQ Manager is not considered Key Personnel?

Response: Correct. The IDIQ Manager is not considered Key Personnel.

41. Question: Page 102, section (i) says that the offeror and each major subcontractor list up to 5 of the most recent and relevant past performance contracts. We just wanted to confirm that the Bureau is expecting 5 references total rather than 5 per each firm.

Response: Offerors may submit five (5) references each per prime and major subcontractor.

42. Question: Per page 103 it seems as if the Case Study Workplan is part of the wider technical, but on page

102 the RFP states that the 6-page Workplan does not count against the page limit. We just wanted to verify that the Workplan would be written within the technical rather than as an Annex.

Response: Per pg. 103, the Workplan is an annex to the technical proposal.

43. Question: Should the resume for the IDIQ Manager appear within the technical, or should it be included as an Attachment? (page 103).

Response: This has been revised per this amendment.

44. Question: The sample budget does not have a line for “General and Administrative Indirect Rate” on

Labor. If the NICRA allows, can the bidder change the format and add a line?

Response: No, the sample budget is to be completed as it is listed in the RFP, with no additional lines or categories added.

45. Question: Requirement 2.1 – Providing Ongoing Expert Consultation states: “Expertise may be provided by CPT designated and/or HPI-certified staff or CPT-designated and/or HPI-certified consultants.” Does expertise delivery exclude other qualified staff or consultants that may not be CPT-designated or HPI-certified?

Response: Specific requirements will be determined on a case-by-case basis per task order.

46. Question: Please clarify if for the IDIQ manager it is possible to substitute the Certified Performance

Technologist (CPT) or certification in Human Performance Improvement (HPI) requirement with a “minimum of eight years of experience in applying organizational development methods and theories in government or other institutions in developing countries”, as stated on p. 24, because section L.8, part (4) states “The IDIQ Manager‟s resume shall explicitly identify the proposed IDIQ Manager‟s CPT designation and/or HPI certification.”

Response: USAID can confirm that the IDIQ manager must be HPI certified or CPT designated or have eight years of experience in in applying organizational development methods and theories in government or other institutions in developing countries. In addition, the IDIQ manager must also satisfy the requirements set forth in regards to academic degrees on the top of p. 24 of the RFP.

47. Question: Upon review of the clauses incorporated by reference in Section I.1, we respectfully note the following corrections to reflect the most recent updates:

FAR 52.204-8, Annual Representations and Certifications, May 2012

FAR 52.209-7, Information Regarding Responsibility Matters, Feb. 2012

FAR 52.215-2, Audit and Records – Negotiation, Oct. 2010

FAR 52.219-1, Small Business Program Representation, Apr. 2012

FAR 52.219-19, Small Business Concern Representation for the Small Business Competition Demonstration

Program, listed as reserved in current FAR

FAR 52.219-21, Small Business Size Representation for Targeted Industry Categories under the Small Business

Competitiveness Demonstration Program, listed as reserved in current FAR

FAR 52.219-25, Small Disadvantaged Business Participation Program – Disadvantaged Status and Reporting, Dec.

FAR 52.219-28, Post-Award Small Business Program Representation, Apr 2012

FAR 52.222-39, Notification of Employee Rights Concerning Payment of Union Dues or Fees, listed as reserved in current FAR

52.222-54, Employment Eligibility Verification, July 2012

52.223-13, Certification of Toxic Chemicals Release Reporting, listed as reserved in the current FAR

52.223-14, Toxic Chemical Release Reporting, listed as reserved in the current FAR

Response: Updates of clauses have been made.

48. Question: Section L.8(b) on pp. 101-102 says that the Case Study Work Plan [6 pages maximum] is not included in the 15- page limit for the Technical Proposal. Would USAID like for offerors to include the Case Study

Work Plan as an annex to the Technical Proposal?

Response: Yes, the Case Study Work Plan should be included as an annex to the Technical Proposal. (Pg. 101)

49. Question: Section L.8(2) states that past performance references must be submitted for the offeror and each major subcontractor. May past performance references of non-major subcontractors be submitted?

Response: Past performance references of non-major subcontractors will not be evaluated and should not be submitted.

50. Question: Section L.8(4)(i) states that the offerer shall provide a resume, letter of acknowledgement and references for the proposed IDIQ manager. May these documents be submitted in an annex that does not count against the fifteen (15) total page limit for the technical proposal?

Response: Yes, the resume, letter of acknowledgement, and references for the proposed IDIQ manager may be submitted as an annex and will not count against the fifteen (15) total page limit for the technical proposal.

51. Question: In section L.9, paragraph (b)(3)(i), the RFP states "The proposal shall also include the name and address of the Government Audit Agency, and the name and telephone number of the auditor." In a case where the offeror has been issued a NICRA by USAID, but the Government Audit Agency that services USAID (DCAA) has not audited the offeror's rates, will the submission of the NICRA letter alone satisfy the requirements in this section?

Response: Yes, the submission of the NICRA letter alone will satisfy the requirements in this section.

52. Question: Section M.2(a), bullet point 2 on p. 109, says that USAID will evaluate the offeror‟s

“Demonstrated ability evidenced by organizational commitment and organizational systems designed to utilize all available resources.” Could USAID clarify what is meant by “organizational commitment” in the context of this

RFP? Is USAID referring, for example, to organizational commitment to development, to client satisfaction, or to some other particular set of objectives?

Response: Please see revision made with this amendment.

53. Question: In section M.2, paragraph (d), bullet point 4 on page 111, the RFP states that proposals will be evaluated on "The extent to which the offeror's procedures to manage task order proposal requests are efficient and may appropriately engage with stakeholders, subcontractors, and other technical assistance contractors." Could

USAID explain, perhaps with examples, what is meant by "other technical assistance contractors?"

Response: A technical assistance provider is an entity under contract with USAID and is a provider of goods or services to developing countries and other USAID recipients in direct support of a development objective.

54. Question: The RFP states the following on page 16: “Partnering with Host Country Organizations: The contractor shall support Missions in establishing criteria to identify host country partner organizations that may benefit from an HICD initiative. The contractor shall systematically identify the most appropriate partner organizations for HICD initiatives by incorporating an institutional context check into the partner organization selection process.” Previous USAID HICD RFPs have not been prescriptive about the type of organizations that may serve as host country organizations (e.g. CSOs, private sector firms, governmental organizations, etc.). Despite this, post-bid debriefs to these RFPs have revealed embedded biases towards one type of organization or another on the part of a particular Mission.

(a) Does the IDIQ assume a specific type of organization that can qualify as a host organization?

Response: No, all types of organizations and institutions are potentially in this group, including but not limited to: governmental, non-governmental, private sector, and civil society.

(b) Moreover, does USAID have minimal capacity criteria for local HICD organizations to be employed as partners for performance assessments and solutions?

Response: The same characteristics of a potentially successful HICD partner listed in the HICD handbook for potential partner organizations would be applicable to local service providers. The contractor must work closely with local organizations that provide capacity development services while carrying out key components of the HICD model their overall HICD efforts.

55. Question: Could USAID please elaborate on the desired key personnel aside from the IDIQ Manager?

Response: Pg. 90: There are no key personnel associated with this IDIQ award. The IDIQ Manager is not a key personnel. The Contractor shall furnish key personnel as stated in task orders.

56. Question: Apart from the differences in eligibility requirements and the overall maximum ordering limitations, how do these two solicitations differ?

Response: Locations of the work: CPC Solicitation will have a place of performance in Washington, DC and CPC countries; Non-CPC solicitation will have a place of performance in Washington, DC and non-CPC countries.

57. Question: Result 3 for both solicitations note that: “Any requests from host governments would be conducted outside of the framework of this IDIQ.” However, the Alderaan case study is for a government agency. Could you please clarify?

Response: Services provided under Result 3 will be subject to terms and conditions negotiated with the host country governments and/or local organizations, separate and outside of the framework of this IDIQ as stated in the

RFP.

58. Question: We are planning to submit as a Small Business and, if awarded an IDIQ, we will, of course perform at least 50% of the work. “Major sub-contractor” is defined in Section L.5 and elsewhere as “those subcontractors expected to perform at least 20% of the technical effort under the contract under this RFP.” There are several sub-contractors which, depending on the nature of the actual task orders awarded, could end up performing more than 20% of the work individually, although the total amount of work that they would collectively perform would be less than 50%.

(a) How should this be addressed for Attachment J.3, the Labor Distribution Chart, since listing each sub-contractor with a likely potential to perform at least 20% of the technical effort would add up to more than 50%?

Response: Please estimate the labor distribution

(b) How should this potential be reflected in the Past Performance References?

Response: Please provide Past Performance References only for major subcontracts that will perform at a level of at least 20% per task order.

59. Question: Just to make sure, for the sample budget in Attachment J.5, the Price Evaluation Matrix, under

Line item A. Labor, we are to insert our own proposed unburdened ceiling daily rate, which will be in place for the life of the IDIQ, for the specified levels of effort, and for Line items B, C, and L-T, we are to provide the dollar amount of the relevant calculations.

Response: Yes, in Line Item A, insert your own proposed unburdened ceiling daily rate. In Line Items B, C and L-

T, provide the dollar amount of the relevant calculations.

60. Question: I was wondering if you could tell me if there is an incumbent contractor currently performing work for this requirement? If so, could you please provide their company name and contract number?

Response: The HICDpro IDIQs are new procurements; there are no incumbents. HICD activities were accomplished previously under the FORECAST I IDIQ .

61. Question: Based on page 55 info: Will USAID sponsor work permits in foreign countries?

Response: No

62. Question: Based on page 55 info: Will the prime contractor be allowed and/or expected to avail itself of

USAID bilaterals or Memorandums of Understanding with foreign govts. in order to be considered exempt from local tax liabilities?

Response: The contractor will be fully expected to assist Missions and targeted institutions in developing initial

Memorandums of Understanding (MOU) between USAID and these institutions, as well as with any logistical arrangements as stated in stated several times in the RFP. Bilateral agreements vary from country to country thus tax liabilities will need to be determined on a case by case basis on individual task orders.

63. Question: Based on page 55 info: Will the prime contractor be allowed to include foreign tax liabilities in task order responses?

Response: This will be determined on a case by case basis with each task order.

64. Question: Also, the level of practitioner described with the required certification and the number of years of experience required providing technical services would not typically have also managed “projects of a similar size and scope in an international context, (i.e. a five year, multi-million, multiple country IDIQ or IQC).”

Response: This is not a question. The offeror must meet the minimum qualifications of the RFP to bid.

65. Question: Also, the requirements appear to limit individuals to those living in the Washington, DC area given the requirement to “meet and consult regularly with the IDIQ COR”. Will teleconference or other remote means of meeting be acceptable and considered responsive in relation to this requirement?

Response: USAID has placed no residency requirements on the IDIQ COR. They must be able to meet the requirements of the position as listed. The meetings and scheduling will be determined by the COR post award.

66. Question: Section L.8 (1) Instructions for the Preparation of the Technical Proposal: Management: Please confirm that the proposed IDIQ Manager CV and letter acknowledging intent to serve are counted within the 15 page limit for the technical proposal rather than being uncounted and/or to be included in an annex.

Response: The CV and acknowledgement letter are not included in the 15-page limit. The RFP has been revised accordingly.

67. Question: Could USAID confirm that consultants on short-term overseas consulting assignments (STTA) will be permitted to work and be paid for a 6-day work week?

Response: Six-day work weeks will be determined by the Task Order Contracting Officer for each Task Order.

68. Question: On p.103 under section L.8 (3), Case Study Workplan, the workplan is to include “personnel requirements to achieve expected outcomes. The Offeror shall use Labor Categories described in Section B.11 in drafting the Workplan.” Is the Offeror expected to simply present requirements for the positions or also to propose staff for each position?

Response: The offeror must submit requirements for the position only; no staff is requested.

69. Question(a): On p. 121, Note 5 states: “The Long-Term positions set forth below in Labor Category #1 and

#2 are full-time positions for one year. Proposals must clearly and accurately demonstrate the price and method of recovery for 240 workdays and 20 days of paid absences for these labor categories.” What if the offeror‟s personnel policies and procedures result in more days of paid leave? Can an Offeror adjust the allocation of 260 days per year to fit its personnel policies on paid leave (e.g., 230 workdays and 30 days of paid leave)? Such an adjustment would be necessary to calculate the total annual costs of each personnel, as the offeror‟s fringe benefit rate and overhead rate need to be applied to the correct direct labor costs.

Response: The instructions contained in Attachment J.5 have changed via this amendment, removing the requirement related to the inclusion of 20 days paid absences.

Question(b): Also, is the long-term position for Labor Category #2 for a US national or a Cooperating Country

National? If the latter (CCN), what assumptions need to be made regarding other benefits such as employer social charges and other benefits and allowances (e.g., 13th month, health insurance. etc.), in case the Offeror bills those costs directly as ODCs?

Response: The template provides for a row to provide additional costs not included. In addition, per L.9(b)(4), the offeror will provide a budget narrative to support any costs.

70. Question: Page 105, L.9 (b) 3 (ii) states that, “If the Offeror or major subcontractor does not have a cognizant Government Audit Agency, the proposal shall include: (1) Audited balance sheets and profit and loss statements for the last two complete years, and the current year-to-date statements . . . .” Can the offeror submit reviewed financial statements for the last two complete years if fully audited balance sheets and PNL statements are not available by the proposal due date?

Response: The offeror must submit audited statements as listed in L.9(b).

71. Question: Page 106, L.9 (d) states that, “If the prime offeror or major subcontractor(s) does not have prior

Federal contracting experience it must submit a copy of its personnel policies, especially regarding salary wage scales, fringe benefits, merit increases, promotions, leave, differentials, travel and per diem regulations, etc.” If the prime offeror has experience as a subcontractor on a Federal contract does the prime offeror need to submit the policies mentioned in L.9 (d)?

Response: Yes.

72. Question: Page…