ATTACHMENT_N_-_Industry_Questions_and_Answers_to_RFP.pdf

Attachment N – Industry Question and Answers from RFP

Item Page/ Paragraph Questions/Comments Government Answers

1 Answer to question 51 from the answers to questions from the Draft RFP

Do completed PPQ forms count against the page limit for Vol III?

Yes, for that submitted by the contractor in Volume III (Part II).

2 Answer to question 51 from the answers to questions from the Draft RFP, Attachment H form the Final RFP package, and page 98 of the final RFP, the large para near the top of the page that starts off “The Government will assess…”

Referenced paragraph on page 98 requires a lot of information for evaluation purposes that is not normally included in the PPQ Part II. Can offerors add more information to the PPQ Part II format that is part of Attachment H so that evaluators will have all of the required information?

Information can be added to Part II.

3 Attachment H, Part II

Part II does not use space efficiently. Can offerors create another format and label it Part II to more efficiently use space for the page-constrained Vol III?

No. All submissions should utilize the required format, but information can be added.

4 Ref the table in the final RFP on page 91; the row for the SBP

Why is the file name to be an excel file when the small business plan should be in a word document with embedded tables?

The allowable files are .xls/pdf/doc/docx. This allows for word, excel or adobe submissions for this volume, as the offeror determines appropriate.

5 RFQ pages 39-

CLINs x009 and x010 are listed as T&M and Tasks 9 and 10 respectively. Whereas, in the pricing spreadsheet, it states CLIN 9 is an ODC CLIN and CLIN 10 is a Travel CLIN. Please clarify what CLINs 9 and 10 represent. If they represent ODCs and Travel CLINs, please clarify if they are cost reimbursable and if indirect costs will be reimbursed by the VA.

X009 is ODC and X010 Travel.

These are Material CLINS for ODC and Travel iaw FAR 16.601 (T&M).

6 Will the Government release a list of contractors who attended and/or were represented at the Pre-Proposal Conference?

Posted to FBO.

7 See PWS, Section B.1.C, Task 1: Part A, at Pp. 11-12.

Where the Government references “days”, does it mean “business days” or “calendar days”?

Where it is not specified as calendar or business, it is calendar in accordance with FAR 2.101.

8 PWS, Section B.1.C, Task 1:

Part C.2, at Pg.

13.

Please provide clarification as to 14 business days versus the 60-day period.

A pre-trip request for any requested travel is required at least 14 days in advance of the proposed travel.

The MSR should include planned travel for 60 day period.

9 PWS, Section B.1.C, Task 3:

Parts B, C, and D, at Pg. 17.

Where the government references “days”, does it mean “business days” or “calendar days”?

See answer to question 7.

10 PWS, Section B.1.G. at Pg. 26

Over and above the ODC ceiling, will the Government reimburse the Contractor?

No. The Contractor shall not exceed the established ceiling for ODC. The Government will not reimburse cost above the established ceiling.

11 Section B.1.M, Schedule of Deliverables, at Pp. 32-33.

Where the government references “days” in the Schedule of Deliverables, “business days” or “calendar days”?

See answer to question 7.

12 Are vendors limited to the labor categories provided by the government, or can vendors propose additional labor categories?

No. The contractor may propose the labor categories deemed best in order to complete the Performance Work Statement.

13 What are the key metrics currently produced for predictive modeling and advanced program analytics?

For purposes of this RFP key metrics have been provided:

throughput, class size and locations.

Any other metrics will be provided upon award.

14 Section B.2, Price/Cost Schedule, at Pp.

39-43.

Please clarify missing Task and Subtask numbers in the Price/Cost Schedule.

Only the CLINs are priced, no missing tasks or subtasks. The pricing sheet requires further breakdown of specifics for evaluation of price.

15 Section B.2, Price/Cost Schedule, at Pp.

39-43.

Please clarify Task 9 and Task 10, as these tasks are not referenced in the

PWS.

These are the ODC and Travel CLINs.

16 This opportunity is described as both unrestricted, and under a NAICS Code of 541612 with a size limitation of $15 million. Can you confirm whether or not

This is unrestricted under NAICS 541612, full and open competition.

companies that exceed the $15 million dollar size standard are allowed to propose as large business Prime Contractors or is this a small business solicitation that only companies under the $15 million dollar size standard can propose to as a Small Business Prime Contractor?

17 RFP page 93 of 102 states:

The statement that all offerors must complete a Small Business Participation plan is inconsistent with Subpart 19.7— The Small Business Subcontracting Program, which states small business are not required to submit subcontracting plans:

CFR 19.702 Statutory requirements. (b) Subcontracting plans (see paragraphs (a)(1) and (2) of this section) are not required –

(1) From small business concerns

The statement also does not align with the clause C.13 VAAR 852.219-9 VA Small Business Subcontracting Plan Minimum Requirements (DEC 2009) (a) on RFP page 68 of 102 that states that small business concerns are not required to submit a subcontracting plan..

Can you address why it is important for small business primes to include this plan in response to this solicitation?

The requirement for a subcontracting plan iaw FAR 19.7 applies to large businesses. The requirement for a small business participation plan is an evaluation factor which will be evaluated according to the evaluation criteria.

Failure to conform to the requirements of the solicitation will result in an unacceptable proposal.

18 The government has provided that the following targeted small business subcontracting goals / percentages are based on a percentage of total subcontracted value (see table) A. It would appear that a Service Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) proposed as a subcontractor in response to this solicitation would also

Please read the criteria stipulated on page 95 at (4)(d). “The sum of the dollar values and percentages of Small Non-Disadvantaged and Small Disadvantaged should be included in the entry for the Total Small. The sum of all the percentages need not equal 100% since the prime is not included and qualify as a Veteran Owned Small Business (VOSB). Also, other subcontractor companies may hold multiple designations as WOSB, SDB and HUBZone. Would the participation goals be met for both SDVOSB and VOSB if a single SDVOSB was provided 15% of the work?

B. Similarly, would the participation goals be met for WOSB, HUBZone and SDB by a single company with all three designations performing 5% of the work?

C. If so the small business requirements would be met with only 20% of the total work being subcontracted instead of 44%. Is that acceptable for a large business prime?

D. Is that acceptable for a small business prime?

E. Why is it important for a Small Business prime that chooses to subcontract to meet all of these socio-economic goals in response to this proposal?

individual subContractors may be counted towards more than one category.”

Please work with your local Small Business Administration (SBA) Procurement Center Representative (PCR) regarding small business matters.

https://www.sba.gov/contracting/re sources-small-businesses/pcr-directory

19 52.219.14 indicates that it only applies (clause (b),(1)) to small business set-asides, and that (clause (c) (1)) Services (except construction). At least 50 percent of the cost of contract performance incurred for personnel shall be expended for employees of the concern.

Can you confirm that by incorporation of this clause that this is indeed a small business set aside and that large companies (exceeding the $15 million size standard) are not eligible to propose as prime contractors?

This is unrestricted. 52.219-14 is not applicable, unless the requirements in the Small Business Participation Plan apply.

20 A SBA Final Rule excludes work done by similarly situated entities for purposes of determining compliance with the limitation on subcontracting.

Ref:

https://www.federalregister.gov/documen ts/2016/05/31/2016-12494/small-

Rules and regulations set forth by SBA are applicable to this solicitation. Please contact your local SBA PCR for small business questions.

https://www.sba.gov/contracting/resources-small-businesses/pcr-directory https://www.sba.gov/contracting/resources-small-businesses/pcr-directory https://www.sba.gov/contracting/resources-small-businesses/pcr-directory https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2016/05/31/2016-12494/small-business-government-contracting-and-national-defense-authorization-act-of-2013-amendments?utm_campaign=subscription+mailing+list&utm_medium=email&utm_source=federalregister.gov https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2016/05/31/2016-12494/small-business-government-contracting-and-national-defense-authorization-act-of-2013-amendments?utm_campaign=subscription+mailing+list&utm_medium=email&utm_source=federalregister.gov business-government-contracting-and-national-defense-authorization-act-of- 2013-amendments?utm_campaign=subscriptio n+mailing+list&utm_medium=email&ut m_source=federalregister.gov Can you confirm that this final rule applies to this solicitation with the effect of allowing the small business prime contractor to perform less than 50 percent of the cost of contract performance incurred for personnel for employees of the small business prime by including a similarly situated small business as part of that percentage?

21 A review of the education and experience requirements of the labor categories associated with this solicitation would seem to indicate roles that would normally exceed the personnel pay and benefits protection requirements of the Service Contract Act. However, a statement for this solicitation of whether or not the Service Contract Act (SCA) 52.222-41 and associated clauses applies is important to have confirmed. If the SCA does apply, will the government provide the applicable Wage Determination to allow offerors to account for those costs in pricing provided?

SCA does not apply.

22 RFP Page 19 of

Task 4. Curriculum Development and Revision (Optional Task) (FFP) indicates a requirement for documents to be 508 compliant. To help in costing evaluation, can the government specify which Section 508 compliance elements described in Title 36 Chapter XI Part 1194 will be required? Ref:

http://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?SID=aed1a91a2d4f562c58049c82d8 4ed21d&mc=true&node=pt36.3.1194&r gn=div5

See public facing VA Section 508 home page:

http://www.section508.va.gov/

23 page 81 of 102 The RFP requires the contractor to This requirement includes the need https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2016/05/31/2016-12494/small-business-government-contracting-and-national-defense-authorization-act-of-2013-amendments?utm_campaign=subscription+mailing+list&utm_medium=email&utm_source=federalregister.gov https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2016/05/31/2016-12494/small-business-government-contracting-and-national-defense-authorization-act-of-2013-amendments?utm_campaign=subscription+mailing+list&utm_medium=email&utm_source=federalregister.gov https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2016/05/31/2016-12494/small-business-government-contracting-and-national-defense-authorization-act-of-2013-amendments?utm_campaign=subscription+mailing+list&utm_medium=email&utm_source=federalregister.gov https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2016/05/31/2016-12494/small-business-government-contracting-and-national-defense-authorization-act-of-2013-amendments?utm_campaign=subscription+mailing+list&utm_medium=email&utm_source=federalregister.gov https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2016/05/31/2016-12494/small-business-government-contracting-and-national-defense-authorization-act-of-2013-amendments?utm_campaign=subscription+mailing+list&utm_medium=email&utm_source=federalregister.gov https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2016/05/31/2016-12494/small-business-government-contracting-and-national-defense-authorization-act-of-2013-amendments?utm_campaign=subscription+mailing+list&utm_medium=email&utm_source=federalregister.gov http://www.section508.va.gov/ arrange for training on interacting with detainees. Can the government provide information on why this clause dealing with detainees is applicable to providing Transitioning Service members with support so that we can scope the number of personnel that will require this training?

for Status of Forces Agreements (SOFA) and therefore all SOFA applicable clauses from the Department of Defense must be incorporated in order for the SOFAs to be approved. The clause is applicable.

24 Can the government provide what evaluation consideration / rating will be given to small business Prime Contractors who choose not to provide a small business subcontracting participation plan as mentioned on page 94 of 102 of the RFP?

Since this is a somewhat unprecedented requirement and evaluation factor for small business can you address why it is important for small business primes to include this plan in response to this solicitation?

Ratings will not be provided, just evaluation criteria. This is an unrestricted competition and the evaluation factor applies to all proposals submitted.

25 Attachment G Pricing Spreadsheet identifies elements labeled 1.B.2 The RFP Section B format on page 39 of 102 does not include elements labeled 1.B.2. Should Section B contain this element?

There is no 1.B.2 on any of the documents, including the pricing sheet. Unclear on question.

26 Is Defense Base Act insurance required for contractors operating overseas in support of this effort?

See 52.228-3.

27 This answer appears at odds with the information in the solicitation that indicates that small business primes may propose on this contract (such as those that meet the NAICS code and size standards.) (We note that the incumbent was a small business just 8 years ago.)

A. What is the dollar threshold that is being exceeded that prohibits the contract being designated for small business?

B. Will all small businesses be considered to have excessive risk because this contract exceeds this dollar

Unrestricted means any size business may propose.

A. There is no specific threshold delineated for set-asides.

B. All proposals will be evaluated based on the criteria set forth in the solicitation and award will be made in accordance with the best value determination after making a responsibility determination in accordance with FAR 9.104 and

9.105 and the local VA threshold indicating that only large businesses may receive award?

requirements.

28 Can an organization submit a proposal for both the “TEI” acquisition and the “TEI IV&V” acquisition?

TAP will be awarded prior to IV&V solicitation, therefore there is no exclusion from proposing to both. However, awardee of TAP and all subcontractors, etc. are precluded from proposing on

IV&V.

Language is updated to reflect this clarification.

29 RFP Section B The RFP states, “All contract communication and communication related to work completed toward this contract must occur using VA-approved email accounts. All externally used documents must be 508 compliant.”

Is 508 compliance limited to those documents that will be intended for electronic access and distribution via the web? If no, to what does 508 compliance apply?

508 refers to all electronic facing documents.

30 Attachment L Industry Questions and Answers from Draft PWS and RFP, Question 128-part B asked: “Should pre-trip requests be submitted via the MSR rather than on a rolling basis? What pre-trip request information should be included in the

MSR?”

The response was: Pre-trip requests are separate requests and are to be submitted on rolling basis.

Task 1. Part C. Item 2 of the RFP includes the pre-trip report as an element of the MSR. Is it the Government’s intent that pre-trip reports are now an element of the MSR? If no, will the solicitation be revised to reflect a requirement consistent with the response to questions?

See updated language in RFP.

31 Attachment L Industry Questions and Answers from Draft PWS and RFP, Question 128-part C asked: What post-trip report

Please see the updated language.

Format for the summary log is anticipated as a spreadsheet.

information should be included in the

MSR?

The response was: Completion of AAR in the ORT.

Task 1. Part C. Item 2 of the RFP includes the post-trip report as an element of the MSR. Is it the Government’s intent that the post-trip report be an element of the MSR? If no, will the solicitation be revised consistent with the response to questions where reports will be collected in the ORT?

32 The RFP states: “BAs shall place fliers, using a VA provided template, to key locations around their duty post.”

Will printed versions of these fliers be provided by the VA? If no, must the fliers be provided by the contractor? If fliers are provided by the contractor, how will the expense be reimbursed?

Any bulk printing will be completed by Government Printing Office (GPO) and provided to contractor by VA. Single printing, such as a flier, can be done locally where there is a printer. Vendor will not be reimbursed for any printing.

33 The RFP states that, “All contracts listed that have a PPIRS report do not require a Past Performance Questionnaire (PPQ).”

To assist the Government in easily locating past performance information, will the Government amend the instruction to allow Offerors to submit the most current CPAR for any reference past performance project as part of Volume III as an appendix not counting against the Volume page limit? Without a PPQ, how will they be evaluated?

Updated. Will not require Part I of the PPQ.

34 RFP states: “Contractors may also submit past performance information regarding predecessor companies and Subcontractors that will perform major or critical aspects of the requirement when such information is relevant to this acquisition. For the purposes of this solicitation, a "major subcontract" is defined as one that involves 20% performance on the total contracted effort.” May Contractor define “critical” in determining whether to include past

See updated language.

performance from a subcontractor performing important work but not meeting the 20% threshold for “major”?

35 This second paragraph in this section provides targeted small business subcontracting goals/percentages based on a percentage of total subcontracted value. In paragraph (d), the text references dollar value and percentage of total subcontracted value; however, the chart references “Percentage of Total Contract Value” by business category.

Please clarify the discrepancy between the description for paragraph (d) and the column headers. Should the chart be completed based on Total Subcontracted Value or Total Contract Value?

See updated chart.

36 Is it the Government’s intent for Large businesses to submit both a Small Business Participation Plan and a Small Business Subcontracting Plan?

The participation plan is for evaluation. The subcontracting plan will be based on the participation plan and can be finalized after award.

37 Attachment F The frequency provided for Ben I, Ben II and CTTT reference bi-weekly and bi-monthly. The definition of bi-weekly and bi-monthly respectively are “appearing or taking place every two weeks or twice a week” and “occurring or produced twice a month or every two months.” Should bi-weekly and bi-monthly be interpreted as every two weeks/months or as twice a week/month?

Both are twice a month; the language is based on the local installation schedulings.

38 Per the Q&As provided “offerors should proposed the Labor Categories and level of effort they deem necessary…” In order to allow for a price reasonableness analysis, will the Government require as part of the instructions that education and experience be provided by offerors for any labor categories they add?

Yes. See Attachment M addition.

39 Place of Performance

Will the VA provide a copy of all SOFAs?

These agreements will need to be coordinated by the contractor, VA, and DoD.

40 Recognized Holidays

If DOD honors foreign holidays in overseas locations, as it occasionally does, is the contractor expected to provide services on these days?

Yes, only US holidays are observed unless local Commanders close the installation.

41 Contract Award Meeting

“The Contractor shall not commence performance on the tasks in this PWS until the CO has conducted a kick off meeting within ten (10) days of contract award or has advised the Contractor that a kick off meeting is waived.”

Is this 10 business days or 10 calendar days?

Calendar.

42 B. GENERAL

REQUIREMEN

TS Para 5

“The PM and COR will attend all meetings and briefings where deliverables or the execution of this contract will be discussed. The Contractor shall include the PM and COR in all communication related to this PWS and the execution of the contract.”

a. Does this include discussions with individual military installations to arrange access, schedule training, etc.?

b. Does this include meetings with VA partners such as DOL, DOEd and SBA when the topics is how to coordinate schedules, etc.?

At the start of the contract ALL communications will include Government personnel.

Any change in that will be provided upon award.

43 B. GENERAL

REQUIREMEN

TS Para 7

Will the VA network be accessible to the contractor from overseas locations on a 24/7 basis?

VA will be responsible to ensure appropriate access.

44 Task 1 Part A, subpara c

What is the VA’s schedule and length of its onboarding program for contractor employees?

30 calendar days.

45 Task 1, Part B Project Kickoff Briefing

Is this 10 business days or 10 calendar days?

Calendar, as stated in Task 1 Part B.

46 TASK 2.

Governance, 3rd bullet

Is the contractor expected to work directly with partner agency personnel or work only with VA staff? For example, on P15, third bullet, these functions may require meetings and conversations with partner agencies

Before any meetings/discussions occur with partner agencies, VA will determine who should be available.

47 TASK 2.

Governance, 4th bullet

Is the change control process for only VA programs and documents or is the contractor expected to provide the same

VA will provide to the contractor any and all updates approved by interagency partners. Nothing is to services to partner agencies who update and publish TAP-related material?

be implemented unless directed by

VA

48 Task 3: Part D.

Military Life Cycle (MLC)

What is the annual workload (number of events) associated with this Task?

See Attachment F.

49 Task 3: Part E.

Capstone

What is the annual workload (number of events) associated with this Task?

See Attachment F.

50 Task 3: Part F.

One-on-One Engagements

What is the annual workload (number of events) associated with this Task?

See Attachment F.

51 Task 3: Part F.

One-on-One Engagements

How are “One-on-One Engagements” to be assigned/scheduled between the veteran and the contractor?

There is no stipulation.

52 Task 3: Part G.

Transition Outreach & Public Engagement

(O&PE)

What is the annual workload (number of events) associated with this Task?

See Attachment F.

53 Task 3: Part G.

Transition Outreach &Public Engagement

(O&PE)

How are “Transition Outreach & Public Engagement (O&PE)” events assigned/scheduled?

Case by case with prior approval by

VA.

54 Task 3: Part G.

Transition Outreach & Public Engagement

(O&PE)

Will the contractor be required to produce materials for “Transition Outreach & Public Engagement (O&PE)” events?

No.

55 Task 3: Part H.

VA Outreach Reporting Tool

(ORT)

Will the VA network be accessible to the contractor from overseas locations on a 24/7 basis?

VA will be responsible to ensure appropriate access.

56 TASK 5.

Training (FFP)

Will the Government please clarify the difference between training for BAs who deliver “Benefit I & II Training”/“CTTT Training” and the content contained in the “Train-the-Trainer” curriculum?

Train the trainer requires a higher skilled trainer who understands adult training and is able to teach the material to ensure BA’s are fully prepared to conduct TAP independently. BA’s conduct the boots on the ground training to Servicemembers.

57 Reference: RFP The list of FAR clauses is missing FAR 52.243-1 does not apply, as it is

pg. 67. clause 52.243-1 (FFP Changes). Would the government please add this clause to the solicitation?

only for supply contracts.

58 Reference RFP

pp. 12-13 and Attachment G.

On pages 12-13 of the RFP

Shows Deliverable 1.A.1 with multiple subtasks. However, within Attachment G, it seems that the subtasks should each include separate hours. Do the subtask hours roll up to the Project Management Plan (PMP) row 7 on Attachment G?

Yes.

59 Reference: RFP

p. 19, Task 4:

Part B

States the following: “Following the full analysis of the GPS curriculum, the Contractor shall create a recommended MLC outline for VA.” What level of involvement is the Contractor expected to have in completing this full analysis of the GPS curriculum (e.g., responsible for completing this full analysis of the GPS curriculum, the Contractor will be provided this full analysis both another party, or contribute in some way to a working group’s analysis of the GPS curriculum)?

The contractor is responsible for all taskings in the PWS, to include analysis of the GPS curriculum.

60 Reference: RFP

p. 20, PWS Task

The RFP states, “At each successive level the Contract shall assess BA and Trainer on how well they are preforming and monitored on their performance.”

Can the Government specify which levels in the program management structure require this evaluation to be conducted?

At all levels of program management and requirements within PWS Contractor performance will be assessed.

61 Reference: RFP

p. 22, PWS Task 5.

The RFP states, “Conduct and update short-term course aimed at recall and reinforcement of previously acquired knowledge and skills with all of the requisite skills and information necessary to successfully execute Benefit I & II module, CTTT briefings and Train-the- Trainer.” Can the Government clarify if the contractor is to provide one (1) course that covers Benefit I & II module, CTTT briefings and Train-the-Trainer or three (3) short term courses, where each course is focused on one of these topics as a refresher

Three short term courses.

62 Reference: RFP

p. 22, PWS Task 5.

What is the current length of each refresher training that is included under Task 5D?

The contractor should propose what they determine an appropriate time frame for refresher based on industry standards and best practices.

63 Reference: RFP

p. 24, PWS Task 8.

The RFP specifies that Task 8 will not take more than 90 days to execute.

Which particular parts (Parts A - E) to this task are included in those 90 days?

The entire task A-E.

64 Reference: RFP

p. 91.

May offerors use a different font (8 point or larger) instead of Times New Roman for tables and illustrations?

No.

65 Reference: RFP

p. 102.

Would the Government please confirm that offerors should place the statement required by Section C.21, paragraph (b) in proposal Volume VI?

Yes.

66 Reference: RFP

p. 12, Letter h.

Would the Government please clarify if the Transition Plan is to address only the Phase-in/Phase-out at the start of the contemplated contract, or also the Phase-in/Phase-out period at the end of the contemplated contract?

Both - in processing and out processing transition plan are required.

67 Reference: RFP

pp. 92-93.

Regarding Part II of the Past Performance Questionnaire, would the Government please clarify whether or not Part II of the questionnaire is required for projects that have a PPIRS report.

PPQ II is required. See updated language in solicitation.

68 Reference: RFP

p. 93.

Regarding Part II of the Past Performance Questionnaire, may offerors replicate the content within their Volume III proposal text, or must offerors use the provided MS Word template and insert each copy into Volume 3 of its proposal?

Use the template provided.

69 Reference: RFP

p. 93.

Regarding Part II of the Past Performance Questionnaire, are the pages from Part II of the Past Performance Questionnaire included in the 10-page limit for the past performance section?

Yes.

70 Reference: RFP

p. 92

Content Requirements. Would the Government please confirm that transmittal letters are included among the proposal elements that will not be counted against page limitations?

Transmittal letters are not a requirement of the proposal.

71 Reference: RFP Page 19 of the PWS indicates that Task 4 Task 4 is Optional. See updates.

p. 19 and Attachment G.

is an optional task. However, the pricing spreadsheet only lists Tasks 7 and 8 as optional. Would the Government please clarify whether Task 4 is optional or mandatory?

72 If the government determines that this requirement shall be a small business set aside, will an amendment be issued with time provided for offerors to revise their proposal?

This is an unrestricted RFP.

73 RFP page 9 Hours of Operation: This section states, “The contractor is responsible for conducting business that meets the needs of the location where they are assigned.

Usually this is an eight (8) hour day with 30 minutes for lunch. The contractor must generally be available 7:30 am to 4:30 pm (local time) for weekly meetings and deliverables at each location. VA Benefits Advisor shall maintain walk-in availability during business hours”. Is the contractor only required to have staff onsite to provide walk-in availability at the sites identified as permanent in Attachment F?

The contractor may have to provide office hours at itinerant sites, if requested, or if there are appointments scheduled. However, the office hours are not anticipated to be regular and recurring at itinerant.

74 RFP page 13 Monthly Status Report and page 33, Schedule of Deliverables: On page 13 the RFP states that the Monthly Status Report shall be in Smart book (SMT) format. On page 33 in the Schedule of Deliverables, the delivery format for the Monthly Status Report is MS Word. Could the government please provide the definition of Smart book (SMT) format?

SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, and Time-bound.)

75 RFP pages 15-16 VA Support Concept: This section states that VA currently supports 111 permanent and 206 itinerant sites (total of 317). In Attachment F, it is stated that there are a total of 306 sites with 108 permanent sites and 198 itinerant sites.

Could the government please verify which number is correct?

Attachment F is the correct number.

See updated language.

76 RFP pages 15-16 VA Support Concept: This section states Attachment F is the correct number.

that VA currently supports 111 permanent and 206 itinerant sites (total of 317). In Attachment F, it is stated that there are a total of 306 sites with 108 permanent sites and 198 itinerant sites. If the 111 permanent and 206 itinerant site count is accurate, could the government please provide an updated Attachment F with the updated list of installations?

77 RFP page 19 Curriculum Development: This section requires that the contractor ensure all TAP virtual curriculum and course content and materials remain current and relevant to ensure Servicemembers who are unable to attend TAP training in person have the means to obtain online instruction. Can the government provide an estimate of the number of Servicemembers that have completed TAP training through online instruction on an annual basis?

No, that is not currently available.

78 RFP page 19 Curriculum Development: Page 19 requires that the contractor ensure all TAP virtual curriculum and course content and materials remain current and relevant to ensure Servicemembers who are unable to attend TAP training in person have the means to obtain online instructions. Is the number of Servicemembers completing TAP training through online instruction expected to remain the same for the entire period of performance?

That information is not currently available.

79 RFP page 16 Onsite Activities and RFP page 19, Curriculum Development: Page 16 states that primary instruction will be given in person in a brick and mortar classroom, auditorium, or conference room environment conducive to learning. Page 19 requires that the contractor ensure all TAP virtual curriculum and course content and materials remain current and relevant to ensure Servicemembers who are unable to attend TAP training in

Virtual means the on line curriculum for those who are excused from the in-person briefing, as determined by DoD and on case by case basis. The method of executing the classes is not expected to change over the period of performance.

No scheduling of outreach events is required person have the means to obtain online instructions. The solicitation is clear that the current requirement is focused on classroom-based instruction. Does the government anticipate that emphasis will shift to a virtual and online model of instruction over the entire period of performance?

RFP page 18, Task 3, Part G, Transition Outreach & Public Engagement (O&PE):

Are contractor personnel required to schedule or plan any outreach events?

80 RFP page 18, Task 3, Part G

Transition Outreach & Public Engagement (O&PE): This section states that outreach activities may range from 2-8 hours not including prep and travel time. Can the government please specify what kinds of activities are required to be performed by contractor personnel for event prep?

As stated in Task 3, part H- pre event entries into ORT are required.

In addition any gather of materials to be distributed at the event.

81 RFP page 24, Task 8, Part A

Optional New Module Development:

Could the government please provide the anticipated length of a new module? For instance, will a new module be for a one

(1) hour training session?

They will be similar in time and complexity to Bl/ll unless the Government requests an MLC topic, which will be shorter.

82 Attachment L, Question 116: The answer to this question states that new modules developed will be similar to the existing Benefits I, Benefits II or Career and Technical Training Track (CTTT). The RFP states that the existing Benefits and CTTT modules range for two (2) hours to six (6) to eight (8) hours each day for two

(2) days. Could the government please provide a minimum and maximum module length to be included in the optional CLIN price?

They will be similar in time and complexity to Bl/ll unless VA requests an MLC topic which will be shorter. There is no set minimum or maximum hours.

83 RFP page 24, Task 8, Part A, Optional New Module Development: Will the government consider adding separate CLINs in the pricing spreadsheet for different length module development.

For instance, development of a new one

(1) hour module would have a separate

The pricing structure is appropriate for the task. The T&M structure will allow flexibility.

price than development of a new four (4) hour module.

84 Page 24, Task 8, Part C, Optional New Module Training: Will the government consider adding separate CLINs in the pricing spreadsheet for different length new module training? For instance, training conducted on a new one (1) hour modules would have a separate price and training conducted on a new four (4) hour module.

The pricing structure is appropriate for the task. The T&M structure will allow flexibility.

85 Attachment G, Labor Category Descriptions: The required experience for the Benefits Advisor states that the education requirement is an Associate’s degree and 5 years experience or 7 years experience. Does this mean that if a Benefits Advisor has 7 or more years of experience they are not required to have an Associate’s Degree?

Correct.

86 Attachment H, Past Performance Questionnaire: In Part II of the questionnaire, there is a requirement for the offeror to provide the name and number of the Program Manager. Are offerors to provide the name of the government Program Manager?

Yes.

87 In task 3: Part A, government states “BAs shall place fliers, using a VA provided template, to key locations around their duty post. BA roles and responsibilities activities shall include...”

Will the contractor be responsible for printing the fliers using the VA template? If so, can the government provide an estimate of the fliers that need to be printed?

See response to question 32.

88 In Task 3: Part B-F, For Capstone, MLC, and One on One events, will all of those be referrals from the VA?

No, there are several referral sources including DoD.

89 In Task 3: Part G, Are contractor Benefit Advisors required to identify and actively pursue Transition Outreach & Public Engagement (O&PE) opportunities?

No.

90 In Task 3: Part G, Is the contractor required to get approval from the VA before conducting an O&PE?

Yes. No outreach will be conducted unless there is prior approval.

91 Task 5: Parts A to C: Will the contractor be provided with the current classroom training materials for Benefit Advisor staff training or will they be required to develop a new program?

The contractor is responsible for staff training, including content.

Curriculums for Servicemembers exist for Benefits l/Benefits ll and are included in RFP.

92 Task 5, Parts A to C: Will travel by contractor personnel to participate in contractor-provided professional training be covered under ODCs or does the contractor have to calculate this and include it in the proposed price.

Travel for any training other than what is needed for this contract is not covered. Travel related to PWS Task 5 is reimbursed as allowable based on the PWS.

93 Task 2 page 15 - “The Government will work with the Contractor to develop a change control process and form that complies with both Government and industry change control best practices.”

Is there an existing change control process or are contractors required to develop a new baseline process and form?

No, there is no change control process. Per the RFP contractor is required to submit a change control process.

94 Task 3 page 17: Part D - Will the government clarify if there are existing standard presentations, materials or content utilized for each of the Military Lifecycle (MLC) events and milestones?

If yes, will this be provided by the government for use by the contractor at MLC events?

MLC development is required.

There are no current MLC materials. Specific examples are covered under Task 3, part D.

95 Page 19, Task 4, Part B. MLC Development – For this task is there is an existing baseline to be refreshed and/or does the government require a new MLC development and materials?

New MLC development is required.

Specific examples are covered under Task 3, part D.

96 Page 19, Task 4, Part B. MLC Development – If MLC materials are in use under the current contract, will the government please provide the materials?

There are no current MLC materials.

97 Is the Benefits Advisor position considered exempt from the Service Contract Act?

Yes.

98 Are the ODC amounts in Attachment G, Pricing Spreadsheet, the set amount offerors are required to propose?

Yes.

99 Pg. 10, Section C., and Pg. 23 Section D

Section C. SPECIFIC MANDATORY

TASKS AND ASSOCIATED

DELIVERABLES appears in the Performance Work Statement (PWS) on page 10. The brief introduction to that section states: “The work described herein is divided into six task areas: TAP Administration and Program Management; Governance; Operations;

Curriculum Development and Revision;

Training; and Plans, Analysis, Evaluation.” Task 4, which appears in the PWS on page 19, is titled “Curriculum Development and Revision” and that heading is accompanied by the parenthetical addition “(Optional Task).”

That addition is in contrast, not only with the word “Mandatory” in the heading on page 10, but also with the wording of the heading for Section D, which appears in the Performance Work Statement on page 23 and is titled “EVALUATED

OPTIONAL TASKS AND

ASSOCIATED DELIVERABLES.” In light of these considerations, are offerors to regard Task 4 as an optional task, like Tasks 7 and 8 or as a mandatory task, like Tasks 1, 2, 3, 5 and 6?

See response to question 71.

100 Pg. 16, Task 3:

Part E. and Base tab and option year tabs, Tasks 3.A.1, 3.A.2

As the Capstone course duration is estimated to be from 1 - 4 hours, will the Government pleases provide a standard number of hours for the course so that the level of effort for T&M pricing on the CLIN is consistent for all bidders?

Capstone course can be anywhere from 1-4 hours. There is no standard.

101 Pg. 17, Task 3:

Part D and Task 3: Part G

How does Task 3: Part D. Military Life Cycle (MLC) which requires the contractor to “Support MLC outreach events and activities” differ from Task 3:

Part G. Transition, Outreach & Public Engagement (O&PE) which requires the contractor to: “Conduct outreach

MLC are structured activities on specific topics. There are no materials developed or available, as the contractor will be responsible for the development under Task 4 Part B.

activities to ensure Servicemember understand how to apply for VA benefits and services to include employment and educational assistance?” Will the Government provide additional detail to facilitate bidders establishing a level of effort for these tasks?

102 Page 17 and 18, Task 3: Parts: E & F

For individual sessions, in what format is the information expected to be delivered?

Will the Veteran be shown paper based collateral, electronic collateral?

No specific format, based on Servicemember request and best method of providing specific information.

103 Page 26, Section F

The RFP states that CF Computers must have a Windows 7 or better operating system and Microsoft Office 2010 or better installed. Given that both platforms reached end of support in 2015 and third party vendors (i.e. Symantec, Adobe) are abandoning support, should the Government consider requiring Windows 10/Office 2013 as the minimum standard?

VA uses Windows 7 and Office 2010, therefore we are requesting equal or better than the system utilized by VA.

104 Page 26, Section F

For CFE on Military Bases, what connectivity will be allowed?

There is no access to base systems;

however, public Wi-Fi is available.

105 Page 30 Section h, Contractor Responsibilities

Contractor Responsibilities under number 1. states Fingerprint request form will be provided to the Contractor after contract/task award. Does the VA provide facilities to assist contract employees in obtaining fingerprinting services?

Yes. Fingerprints are obtained at local VA or local installation if

OCONUS.

106 Page 30 Section h, Contractor Responsibilities

If contract employee fingerprints are manually taken using FD-258 Fingerprint Cards will the contractor submit the fingerprint cards to OPM electronically by an approved SWFT vendor or submit Fingerprint Cards to the COR?

VA does their own fingerprinting and does not use OPM.

107 Attachment F – TAP List of Installations

In Attachment F, the government does not provide frequency numbers for MLC, Capstone, and One on One Training. Will the Government please provide frequency estimates for these optional events per installation to facilitate T&M pricing?

The frequency is driven by the needs of the individual or installations.

Historical information for these is not available.

108 Part II Will the Government please clarify the Updated.

requirement for Part II? The beginning sentence of Part II, Attachment H is still in track changes and appears to read “Vendor to complete and Forward as part of Volume III”. Additionally are we to forward PART II separately to Caitlin Palmer and Tara Flores or are we to include it in Volume III? If included in Volume III, does it count towards total page count?

109 When the government’s own research shows that small businesses are not capable of providing the full scope of services, why has the Government designated a NAICS code of 541612 which has a size standard of $15M. For a company to qualify as a Prime, the their 3-year average cannot exceed $15M in receipts, essentially making this a small business set aside.

Can the Government clarify this discrepancy between its own research that there aren’t qualified SBs and the assigned NAICS code?

Acquisition require a NAICS to be assigned. NAICS have a small business size standard which is assigned by SBA. Stating the size standard allows industry to know which companies would qualify as small businesses for the purposes of priming or subcontracting. The size standard does not exclude large businesses from proposing on solicitations that are marked as unrestricted.

110 By assigning a NAICS code of 541612 with a $15M size standard, the Government has forced out all large businesses from this procurement.

Therefore, is it fair to assume that a Prime, as long as they meet the procurement size standard, and therefore would have to be a small business, do not need to submit a SB participation plan?

See response to 109. Please speak to your local SBA PCR.

111 The government has provided the following targeted small business subcontracting goals/percentages are based on a percentage of total subcontracted value (see table) A. A Service Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) also qualifies as a Veteran Owned Small Business (VOSB). Would we get disqualified if we subcontract SDVOSB

Please read the criteria stipulated on page 95 at (4)(d). “The sum of the dollar values and percentages of Small Non-Disadvantaged and Small Disadvantaged should be included in the entry for the Total Small. The sum of all the percentages need not equal 100% since the prime is not included and individual subContractors may be

(10%) and VOSB (15%) to a single SDVOSB company or is a Prime required to have a company that is ONLY VOSB on the team?

B. Can the Government confirm that as a Small Business Prime, if we choose to subcontract any portion of the work, we do not have to meet every single target percentages?

C. Can the Government please confirm that only a Large Business MUST subcontract to small businesses in every single one of these Categories and Target (Percentage).

Can the Government please confirm that a small business Prime will not be disqualified if we do not subcontract to businesses in every single one of these categories.

counted towards more than one category.”

Please work with your local SBA PCR regarding small business matters.

112 Because of the assigned NAICS code size standard to this opportunity, by default, only small businesses can Prime this opportunity. Can the Government clarify if the small business PRIME is required to perform at least 50 percent of the work or as long as 50 percent of the total work is performed by a team of small businesses, that is acceptable and not a reason for disqualification.

Please contact your local SBA PCR for small business questions.

113 If a small business meets the small business participation through self-performance at the time of contract award but because of the potential value of this contract, a small business is unlikely to remain small during the performance of this contract. During the performance of the contract, would the Prime (if we no longer meets the $15M size standard) then have to add small business subcontractors to meet the stipulations of the Small Business Participation Plan in the midst of an ongoing contract?

Please contact your local SBA PCR for small business questions.

114 If a small business is a certified small Please contact your local SBA PCR business at the time of RFP submittal, but through the award, the small business exceeds small business standards by the way of the VA award, can the small business still prime the contract?

for small business questions.

115 If the service disabled business meets other categories in the contract such as small business, is the full % required for small business required of a separate small business beyond the service disabled company if the service disabled company is the prime and has more than 30-40% of the contract?

Please contact your local SBA PCR for small business questions.

116 If a large privately held business averages larger than the size standard of $15 million in the private sector, but within the NAIC code does not exceed $15 million, can the larger privately held woman and minority owned business respond as the prime? Assuming of course, a small business sub-contract plan would be required.

Please contact your local SBA PCR for small business questions.

117 PWS K -

CONTRACTOR

EXPERIENCE

REQUIREMEN

TS – KEY

PERSONNEL

At Section K, the RFP states: "Any substituted personnel shall have the equivalent or better education, experience, and credentials than the personnel they replace, subject to VA review and approval." Will the Government consider amending this requirement to require replaced personnel to have the equivalent or better education, experience, and credentials than the personnel requirements stated in the RFP?

Requirements are as defined.

118 PWS B.1.C Task

The term "Transition Priority Programs" is used. Where are "priority" programs defined?

Any program that supports transitioning Servicemembers and Veterans.

119 E.4 - ADDENDUM to

FAR 52.212-1

INSTRUCTION

S TO

OFFERORS—

The answer to question 54 provided with the final RFP reads: "The RFP states “All pages of each volume shall be appropriately numbered and identified by the complete company name, date and solicitation number in the header and/or

The header/footer content should be IN the 1-inch margins.

COMMERCIAL

ITEMS;

Attachment L footer” in addition “Page numbers, company logos, and headers and footers may be within the page margins ONLY, and are not bound by the 12-point font requirement." The term "within the page margins" is confusing. Does this mean that ALL proposal content must be bordered by 1-inch margins and that the page numbers, company name, etc. must also allow for the 1-inch margin (i.e., there must be a clear, white, content-free 1-inch margin around both proposal content and the header/footer content)?

Or are you saying that the header and footer content may be placed IN the margins (i.e., may be placed closer to the page edge than 1 inch?)

120 E.5 52.212-2

EVALUATION

COMMERCIAL

ITEMS;

Attachment L

In the Government's response to question 55, the update mentioned was…