UPDATED RFQQ 0423 OBS 4.23.24.pdf

UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON

Request For Quote & Qualifications #24-0423 KLE

Ocean Bottom Seismometer and Low Frequency Hydrophone

RFQQ Coordinator: Kassy Ellefson, Sr. Contract Manager, UW Procurement Svcs. Email:ellefson@uw.edu RFQQ Due Date: May 20, 2024, on or before 4pm

It is the Bidder’s responsibility to read the entire document, including any addendums or attachments and to comply with all requirements listed herein. Any addenda to this Request for Proposal will be posted on the state of Washington Electronic Business Site (WEBS). The University is not responsible for Bidders failure to register and check WEBS for solicitation updates.

This solicitation is open to those who satisfy the minimum qualifications stated herein and that are available to provide services in Washington State.

DUE DATE: May 20, 2024 Firms shall submit a proposal in PDF or Word format, via the to the RFQQ Coordinator. Proposals must be submitted on or before the time specified in 1pm on May 14, 2024 Any proposal received after that date and time may not be considered. All proposals shall remain valid for a minimum of 180 days following the RFQQ closing date.

mailto:ellefson@uw.edu https://des.wa.gov/sell/bid-opportunities

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Section 1: RFQQ Instructions Section 2: Project Information Section 3: Submittal and Technical Requirements Section 4: Evaluation

LIST OF EXHIBITS

COSZO Ocean Bottom Seismometer Technical Specification – sent as a separate document Exhibit 1 Specification Compliance Matrix – also provided as a fillable Word doc Exhibit 2 Past Performance Form – Also provided as a fillable Word doc Exhibit 3 Certifications and Assurances Exhibit 4 Minority, Women, and Small Business Enterprise Response Form Exhibit 5 Supplier Code of Conduct

SECTION 1

RFQQ INSTRUCTIONS

1.1 DEFINITIONS

• The terms "offer", “proposal,” or “bid” means a submitted response to this Request for Quote and Qualifications.

• The terms "Bidder", “Bidders,” or “Firm” means the entity submitting a response.

• The terms "Contractor", “Supplier” or “Vendor” means the entity receiving a contract award.

• The terms “Contract” or “Agreement” means, the contract(s) and/or purchase order(s) that is awarded as a result of this RFQQ.

• The term "RFQQ Coordinator" means the University of Washington’s appointed contracting representative.

• The terms "solicitation" or “RFQQ” means Request for Quote and Qualifications.

1.2 SUBMISSION OF RESPONSES

Bidders shall email a signed response to ellefson@uw.edu. Responses must be submitted on or before the time specified in the timetable; any response received after that date and time may not be considered.

Firms shall submit a proposal in PDF or Word format, via to the RFQQ Coordinator. Proposals must be submitted on or before the time specified in Timetable. Any proposal received after that date and time may not be considered. All proposals shall remain valid for a minimum of 180 days following the RFQQ closing date.

All proposals and any accompanying documentation become the property of the UW and will not be returned.

Proposals shall be clearly marked and delivered per the instructions. It is the responsibility of the Firm to see that their proposal is received on or before the due date for proposals

Each proposal must contain a Cover Letter signed and dated by the Bidder. The name and title shall be typed or printed below each signature.

• Proposals sent by a proprietorship must be signed by the Owner.

• Proposals sent by a partnership must be signed with the partnership name by one of the partners, followed by the signature and designation of the partner signing.

• Proposals by a corporation must be signed with the legal name of the corporation, followed by the name of an authorized officer.

1.3 TIMETABLE

Issue of RFQQ April 23, 2024 Closing Date for Questions May 6, on or before 4pm PST Addendum Issued (if necessary) Week of May 13, 2024 Response Due May 20, 2024, on or before 4pm

The University reserves the right to change the timetable or cancel the RFQQ at any time. Bidders will be notified via WEBS of any schedule changes which impact them.

1.4 REVISIONS TO THE RFQQ

The University reserves the right to change the acquisition schedule or cancel the RFQQ at any time. The University reserves the right to make corrections or amendments due to errors identified in the RFQQ by the University or an Offeror. Any changes will be dated and attached to, and made a part of, the RFQQ. All changes must be coordinated in writing with, authorized by, and made by the RFQQ Coordinator.

All RFQQ corrections and amendments will be posted to WEBS. Offerors are responsible for checking the website for this information.

1.5 QUESTIONS and COMPLAINTS

QUESTIONS

All questions must cite the particular RFQQ section(s) and paragraph number and be submitted via email to ellefson@uw.edu, please include the RFQQ number in your email subject line. Depending upon the nature of the question and the response, copies of the question and response may be submitted to all other potential Bidders.

Unauthorized contact regarding the RFQQ with other University employees may result in disqualification. Any oral communications will be considered unofficial and non-binding on the University of Washington. Questions will not be accepted after the closing date for inquiries.

Should any discrepancies be found in or omissions from the specifications, or doubt as to their meaning, the Bidder shall notify the Coordinator, in writing. Any and all interpretations, corrections, revisions, and amendments shall be issued by the RFQQ Coordinator in the form of a written addendum to all holders of the RFQQ documents. All addenda issued shall become a part of the award documents. All addenda issued shall be incorporated into the award.

Bidders will not receive confirmation that submitted questions have been received. Responses to questions received will be posted on WEBS.

COMPLAINTS

A. Contractors may submit a complaint to the RFQQ Coordinator based on any of the following:

• The solicitation unnecessarily restricts competition;

• The solicitation evaluation or scoring process is unfair or flawed; or

• The solicitation requirements are inadequate or insufficient to prepare a response.

B. Offerors may submit complaints up to 5 business days prior to the proposal due date. Complaints must meet the following requirements:

• Must be in writing.

• Must be sent to the RFQQ coordinator, or designee.

• Should clearly articulate the basis for the complaint.

• Should include a proposed remedy.

The RFQQ coordinator or designee will respond to complaints in writing; the response to complaints including any changes to the solicitation will be posted as an amendment on WEBS. The complaint may not be raised again during the protest period. The complaint process does not include an appeal process.

1.6 ACCEPTANCE OF OFFERS

The UW reserves the right to reject any or all responses or any part thereof, or to accept any responses, or any part thereof, or to waive or decline to waive irregularities and technicalities in any response when it is determined that it is in the best interest of the UW to do so. The UW reserves the right to waive any minor irregularity in any response received, including but not limited to, obvious mathematical errors in extension of pricing, failure to date the response, or failing to execute any certification not considered salient to price, or acceptance of an agreement award. A major omission, such as but not limited to, failing to contain the signature of a responsible official of the company on the response, failing to propose actual pricing, may result in rejection of the offer as being non-responsive to the RFQQ.

Offeror’s proposal must provide a minimum of 180 business days validity period.

1.7 AWARD IN THE BEST INTEREST

In order to obtain the services and pricing that best meet the needs of the University as expressed in this RFQQ, the University reserves the right to make single or multiple awards. The University also reserves the right to https://des.wa.gov/sell/bid-opportunities cancel or reissue the RFQQ or reject any or all offers without penalty.

1.8 ADVANCE PAYMENTS PROHIBITED

No payment in advance of or in anticipation of goods or services to be provided under this contract shall be made by the University. Contractor shall not invoice the University in advance of delivery of such goods or services.

1.9 ATTACHMENT OF RESPONSES TO CONTRACT

If an award is made, the University will incorporate the RFP document and any addenda issued, plus the winning Bidder's response to the RFP as part of the final contract.

1.10 CANCELLATION

The University shall have the option to cancel an award issued as a result of this solicitation at any time for performance that is not in compliance with all the instructions and specifications stated herein.

1.11 COST OF RESPONSES

Costs incurred in preparing and presenting the responses or incurred in any other manner by the Bidder in responding to this solicitation are not reimbursable and may not be charged to the University.

1.12 GRATUITIES

In accordance with RCW 42.52, Ethics in Public Service, University employees may not accept gifts, gratuities, or any item of economic value. The Bidder agrees to offer no such items to any University employee.

1.13 FUNDING

Any contract awarded as a result of this procurement is contingent upon the continued availability of state or federal agency funding.

1.14 IN-STATE RECIPROCITY

Pursuant to RCW 39.26.371 and WAC 200-300-075, the State of Washington Department of Enterprise Services has established a schedule of percentage increases to be added to Bids from Bidders in states that grant a preference to Contractors located in their state, or for goods manufactured in their state. The percentages related to each respective state are provided in the NASPO’s state preference repository and apply only to Bids received from Bidders in those states listed.

The appropriate percentage will be added to each Bid bearing the address from a state with in-state preferences rather than subtracting a like amount from Washington State Bidders.

This action will be used only for analysis and award purposes. In no instances shall the increase be paid to a Bidder whose Bid is accepted and awarded a Contract.

1.15 NON-ENDORSEMENT

As a result of the selection of a Bidder to supply products and/or services to the University, the University is neither endorsing nor suggesting that the Bidder is the best or only solution. All Bidders agree to make no reference to the University in any literature, promotional material, brochure, sales presentation, or the like without express written consent of the University’s Trademarks and Licensing Office.

1.16 PUBLICITY

Advertising, including use of the University marks and logos, press releases, or any other general public announcement by a Vendor, stating the availability of its products or services to University employees is prohibited unless the Vendor has obtained prior written authorization from the UW Procurement Services Department.

1.17 NO OBLIGATION TO CONTRACT

This solicitation does not oblige the University of Washington to contract for the services specified herein.

1.18 RESPONSE WITHDRAWAL

Responses may be withdrawn any time prior to the RFQQ scheduled due date and time. Withdrawn responses may be resubmitted up to the time and date designated for receipt of responses provided they are in full conformance with the terms and conditions of this solicitation.

1.19 PUBLIC DISCLOSURE

The University is subject to RCW 42.56 (Public Records Act). All Offeror Responses and any subsequent Contract will be “public records” as defined in RCW 42.56.010

The Offeror must clearly specify any specific information that it claims is confidential or proprietary. Marking of the entire Response or entire sections as proprietary will not be honored. The University may not accept Responses where pricing is marked as proprietary.

All Responses received will remain confidential until the Contract, if any, resulting from this RFQQ is signed by the University and the Apparent Successful Offeror; thereafter, the Responses will be deemed public records.

To the extent consistent with RCW 42.56, the University will maintain the confidentiality of all information marked confidential or proprietary. If a request is made to view the Offeror’s information, the University will notify the Offeror of the request and the date that such records will be released unless the Offeror obtains a court order enjoining that disclosure. The Offeror will have five (5) business days from receipt of notice to obtain the court order. If the Offeror fails to obtain the court order enjoining disclosure, the University will release the requested information on the date specified.

1.20 RESPONSIVENESS

All responses will be reviewed by the RFQQ Coordinator to determine compliance with administrative requirements and instructions specified in this RFQQ. The Bidder is specifically notified that failure to comply with any part of the RFQQ may result in rejection of the response as non-responsive.

1.21 MINORITY AND WOMEN BUSINESS ENTERPRISE PARTICIPATION

In accordance with chapter 39.19 RCW, the University of Washington encourages participation in all of its contracts by firms certified by the Office of Minority and Women’s Business Enterprises (OMWBE). Participation may be either on a direct basis in response to this solicitation or on a subcontractor basis. However, no preference will be included in the evaluation of proposals, no minimum level of MWBE participation shall be required as a condition for receiving an award and proposals will not be rejected or considered non-responsive on that basis. Any affirmative action requirements set forth in federal regulation or statutes included or referenced in the contract documents will apply. Reference Exhibit 4

The established annual procurement participation goals for this solicitation are MBE 6% and WBE 4%. For information on certified firms, Vendors may contact OMWBE at 360/753-9693 or http://www.omwbe.wa.gov.

1.22 U.S. SMALL BUSINESS PARTICIPATION

Participation in contracts for goods and services is encouraged by firms which qualify under definitions by the U.S. Small Business Administration as small business (SB), or small disadvantaged business (SDB), or small women owned business (WOB). Reference Exhibit 4

The percentage listed is voluntary. No preference will be included in the evaluation of bids/proposals.

Participation in University contracts may be either direct as the Vendor in response to this solicitation, or as a subcontractor to a Vendor. Voluntary U.S. Small Business goals for this solicitation are 15% SB/SDB/WOB

1.23 WORKDAY PLATFORM

The University has migrated purchase order and invoice processes to Workday Financials. In support of this strategy, Supplier agrees to work with the University to successfully transmit orders and invoices electronically via Workday. https://finance.uw.edu/ps/suppliers https://finance.uw.edu/ps/suppliers

SECTION 2

PROJECT INFORMATION

2.1 PROJECT DESCRIPTION / BACKGROUND

The Ocean Observatories Initiative (OOI) Regional Cabled Array (RCA) has been delivering real-time oceanographic data to the public since 2014. Through a Mid-scale Research Infrastructure-1 award from the US National Science Foundation (NSF), a set of seafloor junction boxes and geophysical instrumentation will be added to the RCA along the Cascadia Subduction Zone in summer 2026 at water depths from 80m to 1300m to better characterize seismic activity and plate boundary deformation. Along with existing geophysical instrumentation on the RCA, the added infrastructure will create the Cascadia Offshore Subduction Zone Observatory (COSZO).

The Ocean Bottom Seismometer (OBS) instrument comprises several integrated components: a Broadband Seismometer, a Strong Motion Accelerometer, a Digitizer, and housing(s), a Differential Pressure Gauge (DPG), and a Low Frequency Hydrophone that will be located in the water column near the OBS (not buried). The system will have a cabled interface to the seafloor junction box, which will provide GPS-synchronized one Pulse-Per- Second (1 PPS) timing pulses and a time-of-day message string. The integrated instrument will be deployed within a caisson buried in sediment at specific locations. The caisson will be backfilled with silica beads to reduce flow-induced noise at the seafloor, which is designed to operate for at least 15 years.

2.2 SCOPE OF WORK / DELIVERABLES:

The purpose of this RFQQ is to obtain sufficient vendor product information to facilitate the selection and procurement of the best overall OBS solution for use on COSZO. A minimum of four (4) and maximum of five (5) OBS units are expected to be purchased. All purchased units are expected to be received within twelve (12) months of purchase order receipt.

The bidder is to submit a proposal that includes a description of the technical specifications and interfaces of their offered OBS product, provide documentation of past performance that demonstrates the bidder’s capabilities and capacity to produce the required products, and pricing of the proposed products. Bidders are encouraged to provide a complete solution, including the digitized DPG and LF hydrophone with their respective pre-amps, and should clearly indicate which system components they are proposing to provide.

Bidders may propose multiple possible component options but must clearly define how different options can be integrated into one complete OBS system.

2.3 PROPOSAL FORMAT

Bidders are to provide:

I. A description of their proposed OBS system (4-page maximum), II. The filled-out Specification Compliance Matrix see Exhibit 1, III. Pricing and lead time for base systems and all applicable options (pricing should be provided for quantities of 4 and 5 systems), and

IV. Provide references of past performance on the provided past performance form, see Exhibit 2.

The 4-page description of the proposed OBS system should clearly detail which components are being offered, describe product warranty and the bidder’s technical support capabilities, including their ability to respond to inquiries by email, telephone, and system service requests.

Product data sheets, manuals and interface documentation may be included in the proposal and do not count toward the 4-page proposal description.

2.4 ASSURANCE OF CONTRACTOR PERFORMANCE

The University shall retain the right of immediate termination of the award if University is dissatisfied regarding

Contractor’s performance, product, or service quality. Failure on the part of Contractor to reach that University approved level of customer satisfaction will allow University to terminate the award without constituting a default by Contractor.

SECTION 3

CONTRACT TERMS AND CONDITIONS

3.1 TERMS AND CONDITIONS / ORDER OF PRECEDENCE

University of Washington General Terms and Conditions will become part of any Contract and/or purchase order issued as a result of this solicitation, in addition to the Terms and Conditions contained in this RFQQ. UW General Terms and Conditions (dated 2/2/2024) are subject to change at any time.

By submitting a proposal in response to this RFQQ, Supplier acknowledges that the UW General Terms and Conditions current at the time of the announcement of the Apparent Successful Bidder shall be incorporated into any contract issued as a result of this RFQQ. Purchase orders may be issued that are federally funded, in such instances Federal Terms and Conditions will apply.

In the event of conflict between Terms and Conditions referenced in this RFQQ, the following priorities shall apply:

1. Federal Terms and Conditions, if applicable

2. Terms and Conditions of this Solicitation.

3. Regional Cabled Array Special terms and Conditions

4. UW General Terms and Conditions

UW General Terms and Conditions, Federal Flowdown Terms and Conditions, and Reginal Cabled Array Special terms and Conditions are located at: https://finance.uw.edu/ps/suppliers/terms-conditions

3.2 TERMS AND CONDITIONS EXCEPTIONS

In submitting a response to this RFQQ, the Supplier agrees to accept the terms and conditions set forth and as noted in this RFQQ. Any exceptions to RFQQ terms and conditions, or UW General Terms and Conditions must be noted with RFQQ response and alternate language provided. The UW reserves the right to accept or reject alternate language proposed at its sole discretion.

In the event a Supplier does not submit exception to RFQQ terms and conditions or UW General Terms and Conditions, it shall be construed by the University as the Suppliers’ full acceptance; further changes to the same will not be allowed during the negotiation of the contract.

3.3 APPLICABLE LAW AND VENUE

The Contract signed as a result of this solicitation, and the rights and obligations contained in it shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the state of Washington, without regard to any conflicts of law principles that would require the application of the laws of any other jurisdiction. Further, the venue of any proceedings regarding the Contract shall be in King County, Washington.

3.4 ACTS OF INSOLVENCY

Either party may terminate the Contract by written notice to the other and may regard the other party as in default of the Contract, if the other party becomes insolvent, makes a general assignment for the benefit of creditors, files a voluntary petition of bankruptcy, suffers or permits the appointment of a receiver for its business or assets, or becomes subject to any proceedings under any bankruptcy or insolvency law whether domestic or foreign, or has wound up or liquidated, voluntarily or otherwise. In the event that any of the above events occurs, that party shall immediately notify the other party of its occurrence.

https://finance.uw.edu/ps/suppliers/terms-conditions

3.5 CHANGES

No alteration in any of the terms or conditions of the Agreement will be effective without written consent of the University of Washington Procurement Services Department.

3.6 CANCELLATION

Any Contract resulting from this solicitation may be terminated under the following conditions:

• The University shall have the option to cancel any Contract awarded as a result of this solicitation at any time for performance that is not in compliance with all the instructions and specifications stated herein.

• Theft of any University or employee property.

• Use of alcoholic beverages or illegal drugs, negligent driving, or disorderly conduct while on University property

If applicable, bonding and/or insurance must remain in effect through the official termination date of the Contract.

3.7 DATA PROCESSING AGREEMENT

If, during the course of the performance, administration, or maintenance of this contract, or any extension or renewal thereof, Contractor acquires, uses, or otherwise obtains access to “Personally Identifiable Data,” “University Data,” or “Confidential Data” then the UW and Contractor agree that all of the terms and conditions of the University’s Data Processing Agreement shall apply. https://privacy.uw.edu/take-action/share-data/dpa/

3.8 DISPUTE RESOLUTION

Each party agrees to notify the other party in writing of any dispute or claim arising out of or relating to the Contract awarded as a result of this solicitation. The written notification shall specify, to the fullest extent possible, the notifying party's version of the facts surrounding the dispute. In the event the dispute is not resolved within thirty (30) days after receipt of written notification of the dispute, the parties agree to non- binding mediation and to use their best efforts in good faith to resolve the dispute.

Any mediation shall be conducted by a mediator mutually agreed upon by the parties. The parties will equally share the costs of the mediation service, but each party will bear its own costs, including, but not limited to, attorney fees, in conjunction with the mediation proceeding. Mediation is a condition precedent to the bringing of any legal action, claim or proceeding.

3.9 INDEMNIFICATION

The University assumes no liability for any damage to the property of the Contractor, to the property of any person, or public property, or for personal injuries, illness, disabilities or death the Contractor, Contractor’s employees, and any other person subject to the Contractor’s control, or any other person including members of the general public, caused, in whole or in part, by (a) Contractor’s breach of any term or provision of this contract; or, (b) any negligent to willful act or omission of the Contractor, its employees or subcontractors in the performance of this contract. The Contractor agrees to indemnify, save harmless and defend the University from and against any and all liabilities, claims, penalties, forfeitures, suits and the costs and expenses incident thereto (including the costs of defense, settlement and reasonable attorney’s fees), which it may hereafter incur, become responsible for, or pay out as a result of acts or omissions covered by (a) or (b) herein.

3.10 MATERIAL DEFAULT IN PERFORMANCE

Either party may terminate the Contract if the other party fails to perform any material obligation under the terms of the Contract or violates any material term or condition of the Contract, and such failure or violation is not cured within thirty (30) days following mediation as specified in section entitled "Dispute Resolution". In the event of termination, the respective rights and obligations of the parties shall cease and be of no further force https://privacy.uw.edu/take-action/share-data/dpa/ and effect. Grounds to terminate the Contract include but are not limited to the following:

• Unacceptable quality of product

• Theft of any University or employee property

• Drinking, use of drugs, negligent driving, or disorderly conduct while on University property

• In the event that the Supplier’s performance is deemed unsatisfactory, the University Procurement

Service Department shall provide a written statement of detailed statement of complaint. Three (3) letters of complaint will constitute a breach of contract and the University may, at its option, cancel the contract.

3.11 NON-ENDORSEMENT

Supplier agrees to make no reference to the University in any literature, promotional material, brochures, sales presentation, or the like without express written consent of the UW.

3.12 PAYMENT TERMS

The University is a public university and as such, follows the State of Washington payment terms. Payment in advance, including deposits, is not permitted. University payment terms are Net 30 from receipt of services or a properly completed invoice whichever is later. Suppliers are encouraged to include prompt payment discounts in their proposal. Invoices must be submitted electronically via the University’s Workday system.

The UW shall not process invoices for payment, and the period of computation for cash discount will not commence, until the UW receives a properly completed invoice or receives and accepts invoiced items, whichever is later. If an adjustment in payment is necessary due to damage or dispute, the cash discount period shall commence on the date final approval for payment is authorized. If Purchaser fails to make a timely payment, Supplier may invoice for a minimum of $1 or maximum of 1% per month on the amount overdue (RCW 39.76.011). Payment shall not be considered late if a check, warrant or electronic transmittal notice has been mailed or issued within the time specified, or, if no terms are specified, within 30 days from date of receipt of a properly completed invoice or goods, whichever is later. The UW shall not honor drafts nor accept goods on a sight draft basis.

3.13 PRICE WARRANTY

The Supplier warrants that prices of materials, equipment, and services charged to the University do not exceed those charged by the Contractor to any other customer purchasing the same goods or services under similar conditions and in like or similar quantities.

3.14 RECORD OF PURCHASES/AUDITS

The University reserves the right to audit Supplier's records for compliance with contract terms and conditions and pricing. An unfavorable audit may be considered breach of contract and the University, at its sole discretion, may provide the Supplier an opportunity to correct the negative finding(s) or cancel the contract immediately.

3.15 RELATIONSHIP OF PARTIES

The parties are acting herein as independent contractors and independent employers. Nothing herein contained shall create or be construed as creating a partnership, joint venture or agency relationship between parties, and no party shall have the authority to bind the other in any respect. Any reference to either party as "partner" shall not infer any legal status.

3.16 REMEDIES UPON DEFAULT

In any case, where the Supplier has failed to deliver or has delivered non-conforming services, the University may provide a Notice to Cure. If after notice, the Supplier continues to be in default, the University may procure goods and services as substitution from another source and charge the cost difference to the defaulting Supplier or cancel the contract.

3.17 TERMINATION WITHOUT CAUSE:

Either party may terminate the Contract at any time by giving at least ninety (90) days prior written notice.

3.18 TERMINATION FOR CONVENIENCE

When it is in the best interest of the University, the University's Procurement Service Department may terminate this Contract, in whole or in part, by fourteen (14)-calendar days written notice to Supplier. Invocation of the Termination for Withdrawal of Authority or Termination for Non-Allocation of Funds sections shall be deemed a Termination for Convenience but will not require such fourteen- (14) calendar day written notice. If this Contract is so terminated, University is liable only for payments required by the terms of this Contract for goods and services received and accepted by the University up to the effective date of termination.

3.19 TERMINATION FOR WITHDRAWAL OF AUTHORITY

In the event that the authority of University to perform any of its duties is withdrawn, reduced, or limited in any way after the Commencement of this Contract and prior to normal completion, University may terminate this Contract under the Termination for Convenience section. No penalty shall accrue to the University for exercising its rights under this section. This section shall not be construed to permit University to terminate this Contract to acquire similar Services from a third party.

3.20 TERMINATION FOR CONFLICTS OF INTERESTS

University may terminate this Contract by written notice to Supplier if University determines, after due notice and examination, that any party has violated chapter 42.52 RCW, Ethics in Public Service, or any other laws regarding ethics in public acquisitions and procurement and performance of contracts. In the event this Contract is terminated for conflict of interest, University shall be entitled to pursue the same remedies against Supplier as it could pursue in the event Supplier breaches this Contract.

3.21 WAIVER OF TERMS AND CONDITIONS

Failure to enforce any of the terms or conditions of the Contract signed as a result of this solicitation shall not constitute a waiver of any such terms or conditions.

3.22 WORKER’S COMPENSATION INSURANCE AS REQUIRED BY WASHINGTON STATE AND FEDERAL

LAWS

The Contractor must hold the University of Washington, its officers, agents, and employees harmless from any liability under the Act.

3.23 ADDITIONAL TERMS AND CONDITIONS

Additional terms and conditions may be added to reflect changes dictated by changes in UW, State, or Federal guidelines.

SECTION 4

EVALUATION AND SELECTION OF RESPONSES

4.1 EVALUATION

Proposals will be evaluated in accordance with the requirements stated in this solicitation and any addenda issued. Evaluation of proposals will be made by a full and fair consideration of all qualified Suppliers. During evaluation process, the RFP Coordinator may contact the Suppliers for clarification of Supplier's offer.

Initial screening and evaluation of proposals will be based upon the ability of Supplier to meet the requirements and provide the services as specified. If during the evaluation process, the University determines that a particular requirement may be modified or waived and still allows the University to obtain services that substantially meet the intent of this RFP, the requirement will be modified or waived for all Suppliers, and all proposals will be re-evaluated in light of the change.

4.2 REFERENCES

The University reserves the right, but is not obligated, to contact references.

4.3 FACTORS USED TO EVALUATE RESPONSES

Award of the contract(s) will be based on the following criteria and point value. Points will be awarded based on Supplier's ability to demonstrate its ability to meet the different requirements specified herein. It is essential to provide all information as requested in a clear and concise manner.

The University reserves the right to make an award without further discussion of the proposal submitted; there will be no best and final offer procedure. Therefore, the proposal should be submitted in the most favorable and complete terms the Supplier can offer.

The degree in which a Suppliers’ proposals meet the requirements of this RFP shall be based on University’s sole interpretation and discretion.

The following points will be assigned for evaluation purposes:

Percentage Weight Technical Merit 60% Pricing 20% Past Performance 20% Total 100%

Technical Merit

• Compliance with Technical Specifications

• Expected System Reliability

• Overall system capabilities

• Service and Support Capabilities

Pricing

• Purchase Cost

• Value

Past Performance

• Operational performance

• On-time delivery

• Customer Support

4.4 ADDITIONAL EVALUATION FACTORS

In addition to the Specifications stated in sections of this RFQQ, the following considerations may apply:

• The ability, capacity, and skills of the Bidder to perform the contract or provide the service required.

• The character, integrity, reputation, judgment, experience, and efficiency of the Bidder.

• The quality of performance of previous contracts or service.

• Previous and existing compliance by the Bidder with laws relating to the contract or services.

• Such other information that may be secured having a bearing on the decision to award the contract.

4.5 AWARD

The University, in its sole opinion, will select the proposal which best meets the requirements of the solicitation.

The University reserves the right to withdraw this RFQQ at any time and to make whatever decisions it determines to be in the best interest of the University.

The University reserves the right to conduct discussions with Suppliers, to seek further information and clarification, and to accept clarification of proposals. During this discussion period, the University will not disclose any information derived from proposals submitted, or from discussions with other Suppliers.

Upon selection of the successful Supplier, the University will enter into negotiations with that Supplier for an appropriate contract. If the University and the Supplier selected are unable to reach agreement, the University may terminate negotiations and begin negotiations with the second-ranked Supplier or seek new proposals.

4.6 AWARD NOTIFICATION

Once the final evaluation phase has been completed, the solicitation Coordinator will issue a written announcement to all participants, citing the name(s) of the apparent successful bidder(s).

4.7 PROTEST PROCEDURE

Suppliers protesting the award shall follow the procedures described below. Protests that do not follow these procedures shall not be considered. This protest procedure constitutes the sole administrative remedy available to Suppliers under this procurement.

After the announcement of the apparent successful Supplier, unsuccessful Suppliers will be offered a debriefing upon written request. The request must be sent via email to the RFQQ Coordinators. The optional debriefing will not include any comparison between the Supplier’s Proposal and any other Proposals submitted. The UW will address questions and concerns about the Supplier’s performance with regard to the solicitation requirements.

Debriefing conferences will be scheduled for a maximum of thirty minutes and can be conducted via phone, email, or in person.

1. Offerors have 3 business days after the apparent successful Contractor is announced to request a debriefing.

2. Offerors are required to participate in a debriefing as a prerequisite for submitting a protest.

3. Offerors have 5 business days after their debriefing to file a written protest.

Offerors may submit a protest based only on the following:

• A matter of bias, discrimination, or conflict of interest on the part of an evaluator;

• Errors in computing the scores; or

• Non-compliance with procedures described in the procurement document or UW protest process.

Protests are to be submitted to the UW Executive Director of Procurement Services (Director) and the RFQQ coordinator. The Director will issue a written response within 10 business days from receipt of the protest unless additional time is needed. The protesting party shall be notified if additional time is needed. The Director’s protest decision is final. If a protesting party does not accept the protest response, the party may try to seek relief from superior court.

Exhibit 1 Technology Specification Compliance Matrix

Spec I.D. (column 1) of the compliance matrix refers to the specification identifiers in the Ocean Bottom Seismometer Technical Specification document, ver 1-00. See the specifications for full descriptions of the items listed in the Parameter column. Fill in the Value column with the parameters of your proposed instrument.

Please use the units specified in the Units column. Where available, cite specific references in the Substantiation column that substantiate the value listed. Links may be included. (The same reference may be cited in multiple places.) Examples of cited references may include:

● Independent research papers

● Independent test results

● Testing by the Offeror

● Engineering analysis by the Offeror

If no references are available, a statement by the Offeror may be provided in the proposal (e.g., “The communications board in the instrument supports a 10/100 Ethernet interface.”)

If no substantiation is provided, leave the cell blank.

Where possible, please include a copy of each cited reference as electronic attachment to your proposal. (These attachments do not count against the proposal page limit.) If doing so presents copyright issues, it is appropriate to provide a publicly available location (document reference, Internet URL, etc.) where the cited reference may be found.

The Compliance Matrix is shown below, for input by the offeror.

Spec I.D.

Parameter Units Value Substantiation

1.1 Broadband seismometer

shall produce 3 orthogonal outputs

Y/N Click or tap here to enter text.

Click or tap here to enter text.

1.2 Seismometer shall have

analog output, differential, one output for each channel, flat response to earth velocity

Y/N Click or tap here to enter text.

Click or tap here to enter text.

1.3 Seismometer shall have a

sensitivity at differential output of no less than 1,200 V/m/s

V/m/s Click or tap here to enter text.

Click or tap here to enter text.

1.4 Seismometer and

associated leveling system free of parasitic resonances below 100 Hz

Y/N Click or tap here to enter text.

Click or tap here to enter text.

Parameter Units Value Substantiation

1.5 Seismometer and

associated leveling system shall make broadband measurements of ground velocity at instrument noise levels at or below USGS NLNM within frequency band from ≤8.3 mHz (120 s) to 10 Hz (0.1 s)

Y/N Click or tap here to enter text.

Click or tap here to enter text.

1.6 Seismometer supports a

dynamic range of ≥ 150 dB within frequency band

8.33 mHz to 10 Hz dB Click or tap here to enter text.

Click or tap here to enter text.

1.7 Seismometer shall have a

Frequency pass band with flat velocity response within 3 dB from -3 dB points of 2.8 mHz (360 s) to ≥ 20 Hz (0.02 s) dB Click or tap here to enter text.

Click or tap here to enter text.

1.8 Seismometer shall have a

clip level greater than output voltage

Volts Click or tap here to enter text.

Click or tap here to enter text.

1.9 Seismometer measures &

delivers mass position outputs for all 3 components

Y/N Click or tap here to enter text.

Click or tap here to enter text.

1.10 Seismometer is linear

from the noise floor to 100 dB above the noise floor

Y/N Click or tap here to enter text.

Click or tap here to enter text.

1.11 Seismometer capable of

calibration via remotely injected signals while deployed

Y/N Click or tap here to enter text.

Click or tap here to enter text.

1.12 Seismometer has a means

of leveling axes when OBS deg Click or tap here to enter

Parameter Units Value Substantiation package is deployed at an angle up to 20 degrees from horizontal

1.13 Seismometer masses

capable of being Auto-leveled and auto-centered, or re-leveled using a remote mass-centering command

Y/N Click or tap here to enter text.

Click or tap here to enter text.

1.14 Seismometer has

capability to remotely command the sensor to lock or unlock masses

Y/N Click or tap here to enter text.

Click or tap here to enter text.

1.15 Seismometer reports case

tilt with respect to the vertical

Y/N Click or tap here to enter text.

Click or tap here to enter text.

1.16 Seismometer has positive

polarities of output signals for earth motion (up, north, east)

Y/N Click or tap here to enter text.

Click or tap here to enter text.

1.17 Seismometer’s magnetic

susceptibility less than

0.003 m/s2/T m/s2/ T

Click or tap here to enter text.

Click or tap here to enter text.

1.18 Temperature range over

which no mass centering is required no less than ±2°C

±°C Click or tap here to enter text.

Click or tap here to enter text.

1.19 Manufacturer’s name, model number, serial number, factory calibration parameters sufficient to reconstruct sensitivity and transfer function retrievable from seismometer

Y/N Click or tap here to enter

Parameter Units Value Substantiation

2.1 Accelerometer produces 3

orthogonal outputs representing ground acceleration calibrated in units of V/m/s2

Y/N Click or tap here to enter text.

Click or tap here to enter text.

2.2 Accelerometer has analog

output, differential, one output for each channel, and flat response to ground acceleration

Y/N Click or tap here to enter text.

Click or tap here to enter text.

2.3 Accelerometer makes

broadband measurements of ground acceleration at instrument noise levels no more than -120 dB re.

1(m/s2)2/Hz in frequency band 0.1 Hz – 100 Hz when configured for a full-scale range of ±2g dB Click or tap here to enter text.

Click or tap here to enter text.

2.4 Accelerometer is capable

of being centered via a control line

Y/N Click or tap here to enter text.

Click or tap here to enter text.

2.5 Accelerometer has

frequency pass band range from ≤ 0.075 Hz to ≥ 100 Hz.

Hz Click or tap here to enter text.

Click or tap here to enter text.

2.6 Accelerometer makes

measurements of ground acceleration with a dynamic range of ≥150 dB within the specified frequency band.

dB Click or tap here to enter text.

Click or tap here to enter text.

2.7 Accelerometer is capable

of full-scale range of at least ±2g.

m/s2 Click or tap here to enter

Parameter Units Value Substantiation

2.8 Accelerometer is capable

of operating when OBS package is deployed at an angle of up to 20 degrees from horizontal deg Click or tap here to enter text.

Click or tap here to enter text.

2.9 Accelerometer will be

aligned with the seismometer

Y/N Click or tap here to enter text.

Click or tap here to enter text.

2.10 Manufacturer’s name, model number, serial number, factory calibration parameters sufficient to reconstruct sensitivity and transfer function retrievable from accelerometer

Y/N

Click or tap here to enter

2.11 Accelerometer is capable

of outputting data in Z,N,E

Y/N Click or tap here to enter text.

Click or tap here to enter text.

2.12 Accelerometer non-

linearity <0.1%

% Click or tap here to enter text.

Click or tap here to enter text.

2.13 Cross-axis sensitivity <1% % Click or tap here to enter

text.

Click or tap here to enter text.

3.1 Hydrophone measures

underwater sound pressure of scalar acoustic waves in the frequency range of 1 – 1000 Hz

Hz Click or tap here to enter text.

Click or tap here to enter text.

3.2 Hydrophone has minimum

receive sensitivity of -186 dB re 1V/ μPa without preamp (-160 dB with preamp) dB Click or tap here to enter text.

Click or tap here to enter text.

3.3 Hydrophone equivalent

self-noise spectral levels dB Click or tap here to enter

Parameter Units Value Substantiation

10 dB below sea-state zero ocean noise sound pressure levels defined by NUSC TD7265 ambient noise curves within specified frequency range in spec. 3.1

3.4 Hydrophone has dynamic

range of 80 dB above the noise floor dB Click or tap here to enter text.

Click or tap here to enter text.

3.5 Hydrophone calibration

has an accuracy of 1.0 dB//1 μPa dB//1 μPa

Click or tap here to enter text.

Click or tap here to enter text.

3.6 Hydrophone calibration

has a resolution of 0.1 dB//1 μPa dB//1 μPa

Click or tap here to enter text.

Click or tap here to enter text.

3.7 Hydrophone is omni-

directional in response, within 3 dB, over the specified frequency range in spec. 3.1 dB Click or tap here to enter text.

Click or tap here to enter text.

3.8 Hydrophone is connected

to the OBS package with a 5m underwater-rated cable

Y/N Click or tap here to enter text.

Click or tap here to enter text.

4.1 Cox/Deaton/Webb type

differential pressure gauge

(DPG)

Y/N Click or tap here to enter text.

Click or tap here to enter text.

4.2 DPG has pass band of 2 Hz

to 500 seconds

Hz or sec

Click or tap here to enter text.

Click or tap here to enter text.

4.3 DPG has a nominal gain of

1 mV/PA at 1 Hz mV/P A

Click or tap here to enter

Parameter Units Value Substantiation

4.4 DPG noise shall not

exceed 5x 10^-3 Pa2/Hz at 100s

Pa2/H z

Click or tap here to enter text.

Click or tap here to enter text.

4.5 DPG pre-amp shall have a

bandwidth that supports the full passband of the

DPG

Y/N Click or tap here to enter text.

Click or tap here to enter text.

4.6 DPG is connected to the

OBS package with a 5m underwater-rated cable

Y/N Click or tap here to enter text.

Click or tap here to enter text.

5.1 Digitizer converts analog

signals from broadband seismometer, strong motion seismometer, and low frequency hydrophone to digital representations of Voltage

Y/N Click or tap here to enter text.

Click or tap here to enter text.

5.2 Digitizer collects

broadband seismic measurements with at least 24-bit resolution and with a dynamic range of ≥140 dB above the digitizer noise floor bit, dB Click or tap here to enter text.

Click or tap here to enter text.

5.3 Digitizer has an input

voltage range of ±20 V, differential

Volts Click or tap here to enter text.

Click or tap here to enter text.

5.4 Digitizer has multiple pre-

amp gain settings remotely selectable

Y/N Click or tap here to enter text.

Click or tap here to enter text.

5.5 Digitizer is capable of

acquiring broadband measurements with multiple sample rates, at least one will be ≥200 Hz

Hz Click or tap here to enter

Parameter Units Value Substantiation

5.6 Digitizer is capable of

acquiring 3-axis analog broadband measurements, outputting at least 4 different sampling rates per axis (1, 8, 40, 200 samples/sec)

Y/N Click or tap here to enter text.

Click or tap here to enter text.

5.7 Digitizer is capable of

acquiring 3-axis analog strong motion measurements, outputting at least 3 different sampling rates per axis (1, 8, 200 samples/sec)

Y/N Click or tap here to enter text.

Click or tap here to enter text.

5.8 Digitizer is capable of

acquiring 1 channel of analog hydrophone measurements, outputting at least 2 different sampling rates per axis (1, 200 samples/sec)

Y/N Click or tap here to enter text.

Click or tap here to enter text.

5.9 Digitizer is capable of

acquiring 1 channel of analog DPG measurements, outputting at least 2 different sampling rates per axis (1, 8 samples/sec)

Y/N Click or tap here to enter text.

Click or tap here to enter text.

5.10 Digitizer data samples on

all channels running at the same sample rate taken simultaneously to within 1% of the sample interval

Y/N Click or tap here to enter text.

Click or tap here to enter text.

5.11 Digitizer enables

broadband measurements of ground velocity at instrumental noise levels no more than USGS NLNM within a frequency band

Hz or s

Click or tap here to enter

Parameter Units Value Substantiation extending from ≤8.3 mHz (120 s) to 10 Hz (0.1 s)

5.12 Digitizer has a linearity of -

110 dB or better dB Click or tap here to enter text.

Click or tap here to enter text.

5.13 Digitizer is accurate to 1

ms absolute with a free running oscillator with a max temperature sensitivity of 0.1 ppm/degree C and a max drift rate (at constant temperature) of 0.1 ppm

Y/N Click or tap here to enter text.

Click or tap here to enter text.

5.14 Digitizer is capable of

generating sine, step, and random calibration signals, configurable to provide sensor outputs between 5% and 50% of full scale, accompanied by calibration-enable signals for the appropriate set of 3 sensor channels

Y/N Click or tap here to enter text.

Click or tap here to enter text.

5.15 All digitizer channels shall

be derived using linear phase “brick- wall” filters with high frequency corner fc at least 80% of the Nyquist frequency and stop band amplitude (Nyquist to higher frequencies) at least 95 dB below the pass band with pass band (DC to fc) ripple of less than 5%

Y/N Click or tap here to enter

5.16

Configuration information available through the instrument interface should allow reconstruction of the complete transfer function

Parameter Units Value Substantiation for all active data streams;

include manufacturer name, digitizer type, digitizer serial number, board serial numbers and version numbers, factory calibration parameters, including FIR filter coefficients, and A/D conversion factors for each channel

6.1 Broadband seismometer

and strong motion sensors co-located in same housing

Y/N Click or tap here to enter text.

Click or tap here to enter text.

6.2…