VA119A-16-R-0349-045.pdf

PAGE 1 OF 1. REQUISITION NO.

2. CONTRACT NO. 3. AWARD/EFFECTIVE DATE 4. ORDER NO. 5. SOLICITATION NUMBER 6. SOLICITATION ISSUE DATE

a. NAME b. TELEPHONE NO. (No Collect Calls) 8. OFFER DUE DATE/LOCAL

TIME

9. ISSUED BY CODE 10. THIS ACQUISITION IS UNRESTRICTED OR SET ASIDE: % FOR:

SMALL BUSINESS

HUBZONE SMALL

BUSINESS

SERVICE-DISABLED

VETERAN-OWNED

SMALL BUSINESS

WOMEN-OWNED SMALL BUSINESS

(WOSB) ELIGIBLE UNDER THE WOMEN-OWNED

SMALL BUSINESS PROGRAM

EDWOSB

8(A)

NAICS:

SIZE STANDARD:

11. DELIVERY FOR FOB DESTINA-

TION UNLESS BLOCK IS

MARKED

SEE SCHEDULE

12. DISCOUNT TERMS

13a. THIS CONTRACT IS A

RATED ORDER UNDER

DPAS (15 CFR 700)

13b. RATING

14. METHOD OF SOLICITATION

RFQ IFB RFP

15. DELIVER TO CODE 16. ADMINISTERED BY CODE

17a. CONTRACTOR/OFFEROR CODE FACILITY CODE 18a. PAYMENT WILL BE MADE BY CODE

TELEPHONE NO. DUNS: DUNS+4:

PHONE: FAX:

17b. CHECK IF REMITTANCE IS DIFFERENT AND PUT SUCH ADDRESS IN OFFER 18b. SUBMIT INVOICES TO ADDRESS SHOWN IN BLOCK 18a UNLESS BLOCK BELOW IS CHECKED

SEE ADDENDUM

19. 20. 21. 22. 23. 24.

ITEM NO. SCHEDULE OF SUPPLIES/SERVICES QUANTITY UNIT UNIT PRICE AMOUNT

(Use Reverse and/or Attach Additional Sheets as Necessary)

25. ACCOUNTING AND APPROPRIATION DATA 26. TOTAL AWARD AMOUNT (For Govt. Use Only)

27a. SOLICITATION INCORPORATES BY REFERENCE FAR 52.212-1, 52.212-4. FAR 52.212-3 AND 52.212-5 ARE ATTACHED. ADDENDA ARE ARE NOT ATTACHED.

27b. CONTRACT/PURCHASE ORDER INCORPORATES BY REFERENCE FAR 52.212-4. FAR 52.212-5 IS ATTACHED. ADDENDA ARE ARE NOT ATTACHED

28. CONTRACTOR IS REQUIRED TO SIGN THIS DOCUMENT AND RETURN _______________ 29. AWARD OF CONTRACT: REF. ___________________________________ OFFER COPIES TO ISSUING OFFICE. CONTRACTOR AGREES TO FURNISH AND DATED ________________________________. YOUR OFFER ON SOLICITATION DELIVER ALL ITEMS SET FORTH OR OTHERWISE IDENTIFIED ABOVE AND ON ANY (BLOCK 5), INCLUDING ANY ADDITIONS OR CHANGES WHICH ARE ADDITIONAL SHEETS SUBJECT TO THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS SPECIFIED SET FORTH HEREIN IS ACCEPTED AS TO ITEMS:

30a. SIGNATURE OF OFFEROR/CONTRACTOR 31a. UNITED STATES OF AMERICA (SIGNATURE OF CONTRACTING OFFICER)

30b. NAME AND TITLE OF SIGNER (TYPE OR PRINT) 30c. DATE SIGNED 31b. NAME OF CONTRACTING OFFICER (TYPE OR PRINT) 31c. DATE SIGNED

AUTHORIZED FOR LOCAL REPRODUCTION (REV. 2/2012)

PREVIOUS EDITION IS NOT USABLE Prescribed by GSA - FAR (48 CFR) 53.212

7. FOR SOLICITATION

INFORMATION CALL:

STANDARD FORM 1449

OFFEROR TO COMPLETE BLOCKS 12, 17, 23, 24, & 30

SOLICITATION/CONTRACT/ORDER FOR COMMERCIAL ITEMS

VA119A-16-R-0349

Joshua Dean (joshua.dean@va.gov) 2402151640 TBD

Strategic Acquisition Center - Frederick Department of Veterans Affairs 321 Ballenger Center Drive, Suite 125

Frederick MD 21703

X 100

X

541611

$15 Million

X

N/A

321 Ballenger Center Drive, Suite 125

Frederick MD 21703

See CONTINUATION Page

Veteran Enterprise Contracting for Transformation and Operational Readiness (VECTOR)

Submit proposal intentions to Terrie.Bloom@va.gov and Joshua.Dean@va.gov by TBD.

Questions shall be submitted to Terrie.Bloom@va.gov and

Joshua.Dean@va.gov by TBD.

Contract Type: Multiple Award, IDIQ

Set Aside: 100% SDVOSB

See CONTINUATION Page

Terrie Bloom Contracting Officer

Table of Contents

SECTION A

A.1 SF 1449 SOLICITATION/CONTRACT/ORDER FOR COMMERCIAL ITEMS

SECTION B – CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION

B.1 CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION DATA

B.2 LIMITATIONS ON SUBCONTRACTING-- MONITORING AND COMPLIANCE (JUN

2011)

B.3 PERFORMANCE WORK STATEMENT

SECTION C – SOLICITATION/CONTRACT CLAUSES

C.1 NOTICE OF HYBRID CONTRACT

C.2 52.203-99 PROHIBITION ON CONTRACTING WITH ENTITIES THAT REQUIRE

CERTAIN INTERNAL CONFIDENTIALITY AGREEMENTS (DEVIATION) (FEB 2015) . 18

C.3 FAR 52.212-4 CONTRACT TERMS AND CONDITIONS -- COMMERCIAL ITEMS

(MAY 2015)

C.4 52.212-4 CONTRACT TERMS AND CONDITIONS—COMMERCIAL ITEMS (MAY

2015) ALTERNATE I (MAY 2014)

C.5 ADDENDUM to FAR 52.212-4 CONTRACT TERMS AND CONDITIONS—

COMMERCIAL ITEMS

C.6 FAR 52.216-18 ORDERING (OCT 1995)

C.7 FAR 52.216-19 ORDER LIMITATIONS (OCT 1995)

C.8 FAR 52.216-22 INDEFINITE QUANTITY (OCT 1995)

C.9 FAR 52.217-9 OPTION TO EXTEND THE TERM OF THE CONTRACT (MAR

2000)

C.10 FAR 52.228-5 INSURANCE - WORK ON A GOVERNMENT INSTALLATION

(JAN 1997)

C.11 FAR SUPPLEMENTAL INSURANCE REQUIREMENTS

C.12 VAAR 852.203-70 COMMERCIAL ADVERTISING (JAN 2008)

C.13 VAAR 852.203-71 DISPLAY OF DEPARTMENT OF VETERAN AFFAIRS

HOTLINE POSTER (DEC 1992)

C.14 FAR 852.232-72 ELECTRONIC SUBMISSION OF PAYMENT REQUESTS (NOV

2012)

C.15 VAAR 852.237-70 CONTRACTOR RESPONSIBILITIES (APR 1984)

C.16 FAR 52.252-2 CLAUSES INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE (FEB 1998)

C.17 52.232-40 PROVIDING ACCELERATED PAYMENTS TO SMALL BUSINESS

SUBCONTRACTORS (DEC 2013)

C.18 FAR 52.212-5 CONTRACT TERMS AND CONDITIONS REQUIRED TO

IMPLEMENT STATUTES OR EXECUTIVE ORDERS—COMMERCIAL ITEMS (JUN

2016)

C.19 VAAR 852.219-10 VA NOTICE OF TOTAL SERVICE-DISABLED VETERAN-

OWNED SMALL BUSINESS SET-ASIDE (DEC 2009)

4.0 MANDATORY WRITTEN DISCLOSURES

SECTION D - CONTRACT DOCUMENTS, EXHIBITS, OR ATTACHMENTS

ATTACHMENT A - LABOR CATEGORIES

ATTACHMENT B - CONTRACT DISCREPANCY REPORT

ATTACHMENT C - VA INFORMATION AND INFORMATION SYSTEM

SECURITY/PRIVACY REQUIREMENT

ATTACHMENT D - VA CONTRACTOR BACKGROUND INVESTIGATION REQUEST

WORKSHEET

ATTACHMENT E - NON-DISCLOSURE AGREEMENT

ATTACHMENT F – PROPOSAL BOOKLET

SECTION E - SOLICITATION PROVISIONS

E.1 52.212-1 INSTRUCTIONS TO OFFERORS—COMMERCIAL ITEMS (OCT 2015) 43

E.2 ADDENDUM to FAR 52.212-1 INSTRUCTIONS TO OFFERORS—COMMERCIAL

ITEMS

E.3 INSTRUCTIONS TO OFFERORS

E.3 52.203-98 PROHIBITION ON CONTRACTING WITH ENTITIES THAT REQUIRE

CERTAIN INTERNAL CONFIDENTIALITY AGREEMENTS—REPRESENTATION

(DEVIATION) (FEB 2015)

E.4 FAR 52.209-5 REPRESENTATION BY CORPORATIONS REGARDING AN

UNPAID TAX LIABILITY OR A FELONY CONVICTION UNDER ANY FEDERAL LAW

(DEVIATION)(MAR 2012)

E.5 FAR 52.209-7 INFORMATION REGARDING RESPONSIBILITY MATTERS (JUL

2013)

E.6 FAR 52.216-1 TYPE OF CONTRACT (APR 1984)

E.7 FAR 52.227-15 REPRESENTATION OF LIMITED RIGHTS DATA AND

RESTRICTED COMPUTER SOFTWARE (DEC 2007)

E.8 FAR 52.233-2 SERVICE OF PROTEST (SEP 2006)

E.10 VAAR 852.233-70 PROTEST CONTENT/ALTERNATIVE DISPUTE

RESOLUTION (JAN 2008)

E.11 VAAR 852.233-71 ALTERNATE PROTEST PROCEDURE (JAN 1998)

E.12 FAR 52.252-1 SOLICITATION PROVISIONS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE

(FEB 1998)

E.13 FAR 52.212-2 EVALUATION—COMMERCIAL ITEMS (JAN 1999)

E.14 52.212-3 OFFEROR REPRESENTATIONS AND CERTIFICATIONS—

COMMERCIAL ITEMS (DEC 2014)

E.15 VAAR 852.270-1 REPRESENTATIVES OF CONTRACTING OFFICERS (JAN

2008)

E.16 52.219-1 SMALL BUSINESS PROGRAM REPRESENTATIONS (OCT 2014)

(End of Provision)

SECTION B – CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION

B.1 CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION DATA

A. Contract Administration: All contract administration matters will be handled by the following individuals:

(1) CONTRACTOR: TBD

(2) GOVERNMENT:

a. The Contracting Officer (CO) for Veteran Enterprise Contracting for Transformation and

Operational Readiness (VECTOR) is as follows:

Terrie Bloom, Contracting Officer Office of Acquisition Operations Strategic Acquisition Center – Frederick Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)

Frederick, MD 21703

b. The VECTOR CO is responsible for providing overall scope oversight, maintaining communication between contractors and VA, ensuring contract compliance, and administering base contract and modifications. Each task order (TO) will have an identified CO who will be responsible for ensuring that TOs are within the scope of the Indefinite Delivery Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) base contracts, administering all TO awards, overseeing payment or rejection of invoices, and ensuring that annual performance evaluations are completed at the TO level.

c. The CO reserves the right to designate a Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR) at the IDIQ contract or individual TO level. The CO will issue a designation letter to the COR and the contractor to ensure that all parties understand the limited authority of the

COR.

d. Funding is not currently committed for this contract. SAC leadership expects that funding will be available; however, a contract will not be awarded until and unless funds become available. The VA will not reimburse bid and proposal costs in the event a contract is not awarded.

B. Task Order Procedures

Contractors under VECTOR shall provide services as requirements are identified throughout the ordering period. Requirements may span the labor categories and tasks of one or more service groups. Each requirement will specify details as they relate to deliverables, performance, and other technical items.

(1) VECTOR will follow ordering procedures as outlined in FAR 16.505. In accordance with FAR 16.505(b)(2), the CO will provide all awardees in the applicable service group(s) a fair opportunity to be considered for all awards under VECTOR, which exceed the micro-purchase threshold, unless one of the following exceptions applies:

a. The agency need for the supplies or services is so urgent that providing a fair opportunity would result in unacceptable delays;

b. Only one awardee is capable of providing the supplies or services required at the level of quality required because the supplies or services ordered are unique or highly specialized;

c. The order must be issued on a sole-source basis in the interest of economy and efficiency because it is a logical follow-on to an order already issued under the contract, provided that all awardees were given a fair opportunity to be considered for the original order; or

d. It is necessary to plan an order to satisfy a minimum guarantee.

Should one of these exceptions exist, the CO will execute the TO as a sole-source TO, seeking proper justifications in accordance with the FAR and agency procedures.

(2) As requirements for VECTOR are defined, the CO will determine the applicable services group(s). Contractors for that service group(s) will be given the fair opportunity to compete for the award, assuming one of the exceptions noted above does not exist. The CO will issue a Task Order Proposal Request (TOPR) in accordance with the procedures as outlined below. It should be noted that while VECTOR contractors are not required to respond to all TOPRs for which they are afforded the opportunity, they are expected to do so. Repeated failure to provide a response will be reflected in past performance evaluations at the IDIQ level and may result in that contractor being off-ramped. Contractors unable to perform the requirements as stated in a TOPR must submit a “no-bid” to the CO with a brief, yet specific, explanation.

(3) Each TOPR will include, at a minimum:

a. The due date and instructions for proposal submission,

b. A Statement of Work (SOW), Statement of Objectives (SOO), or Performance Work Statement (PWS) with a description of the requirements, including deliverables, minimum qualifications, and applicable information,

c. The place and period of performance, and

d. Any additional information deemed necessary by the CO.

(4) Each TO requirement will have a unique evaluation plan that will be developed by the TO CO and detailed in the TOPR. The following tiered evaluation approach will be mandatory for all TOs:

Tier 1 - SDVOSBs that team/subcontract exclusively with SDVOSBs and VOSBs Tier 2 - SDVOSBs that team/subcontract with Small Businesses (Other than SDVOSBs and VOSBs), Joint Ventures that include Small Businesses Tier 3 - SDVOSBs that team/subcontract with Large Businesses, Joint Ventures that include Large Businesses

All SDVOSB and VOSB subcontractors must be VetBiz Verified and certified in SAM under NAICS code 541611 in order to qualify for Tier 1. All Small Businesses must be certified in SAM under NAICS code 541611 in order to qualify for Tier 2.

Tier 1 proposals will be evaluated first. After the review of Tier 1 proposals, if an award can be made in accordance with the evaluation criteria in the TO, no additional tiers will be reviewed.

If no award can be made in Tier 1, the Government will evaluate Tier 2 proposals for award. After the review of Tier 2 proposals (if needed), if an award can be made in accordance with the evaluation criteria in the TO, no additional tiers will be reviewed.

If no award can be made in Tier 2, the Government will evaluate Tier 3 proposals for award.

In general, TOPRs will be evaluated by analysis of the following factors:

a. Technical Capability/Approach. The contractor will be asked to discuss their plan for accomplishing the work of the requirement. This factor may include sub-factors such as a management plan, staffing plan, and/or key personnel.

b. Performance Risk. The contractor will be asked to provide examples of relevant experience and to provide Past Performance Questionnaires (PPQs) which confirm a level of quality. The CO may consider relevant performance on TO awards under VECTOR and any other information available from Government sources. PPQs may not be required if CPARs are available.

c. Price. The Government will evaluate price reasonableness using price analysis techniques as prescribed in FAR 15.404-1(b). The Government reserves the right to evaluate price realism at the TO level. When competing for Labor Hour TO awards, contractors are permitted to propose labor rates that are equal to or lower than those as listed in its IDIQ contract.

Contractors may be requested to identify labor categories, number of hours, and labor rates in its price proposal for performance of each task.

d. Any other factors as determined appropriate by the CO.

(5) The TO proposals will be evaluated in accordance with the evaluation criteria as set forth in each TOPR. The CO is not required to prepare formal evaluation plans, evaluate offers, post notice on the Federal Business Opportunities (FBO) webpage or hold discussions or negotiations with each offeror. The CO will, however, maintain an internal record of the award decision and supporting information.

(6) In accordance with FAR 16.5, the CO has broad discretion in determining which contractor should receive a TO. The CO will issue a TO to the contractor whose proposal is most advantageous to the Government considering the evaluation factors specified in the TOPR. The CO reserves the right to withdraw or cancel the TOPR. In such event, the contractor will be notified, via email, of the CO’s decision.

This decision shall be final and conclusive and shall not be subject to the Disputes Clause or the Contract Disputes Act.

(7) Upon TO award, the TO will be sent via email to the contractor. The contractor is not authorized at any time to commence TO performance prior to issuance of a signed TO or other written approval provided by a CO. The contractor’s failure to begin performance within the time frame required may result in termination of the TO and reconsideration of the other TO proposals received in response to the TOPR.

(8) In accordance with FAR 16.505(b)(6), contractors may request a post-award debriefing for orders exceeding $5.5 million. The TO CO will conduct post-award debriefings in accordance with FAR 16.505(b)(6)(ii) and FAR 15.506. Issues arising from the placement of TOs are not protestable to the Government Accountability Office unless the protest alleges that the order exceeded the value, scope or period of the contract or in the case where a single TO exceeds $10 million.

(9) TOs may only be modified by written modification, executed by a warranted CO.

The contractor shall not perform or provide services that are not expressly stated in the contract or TO. A COR does not have the authority to obligate the Government or change the terms and conditions of the contract or TO.

C. Minimum Guaranteed Amount and Maximum Value:

(1) The minimum guaranteed amount for this contract is $20,000.00, which will be obligated at the time of IDIQ award to each awardee. Orders beyond the minimum will be determined by department needs and the results of fair opportunity competitions, other than exceptions as noted in section B.1.B(1) above. The Government has no obligation to award TOs beyond the minimum guaranteed amount.

(2) The maximum aggregate value of all awards and TOs under VECTOR is $25,000,000,000. This ceiling is neither divided nor multiplied by the number of awardees.

D. Interrelationships of Contractors:

The Government has entered into other contractual relationships in order to provide technical services throughout VA. These services are separate from VECTOR, but may be related to or in close proximity to those provided under VECTOR. Contractors may be required to coordinate with other contractors in providing its services. All contractors shall sign a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA), Attachment E, prior to commencing services under the base contract or a TO award.

E. Future Competitions

In performing services of VECTOR, contractors may gain access to procurement sensitive information or be asked to provide support services in developing acquisition packages. Contractors are advised that such access or support may deem the contractor ineligible for award as a prime contractor, subcontractor or teaming partner on future, non-VECTOR procurements. Contractor’s failure to recuse itself from future competitions or present a mitigation plan in light of an Organizational Conflict of Interest (OCI), where applicable, may be grounds for termination under this contract and non-selection for future contracts in accordance with FAR Part 9.5.

F. Options

In accordance with FAR 17.2, TOs may contemplate the use of options. Inclusion of options at the TO level will be properly documented and approved in accordance with the FAR and agency procedures and will be clearly stated in the TOPR. FAR 52.217-9 will be included in any TOs that include options.

G. Invoicing

(1) All payments by the Government to the contractor will be made in accordance with 52.232-33, Payment by Electronic Funds Transfer – System for Award Management.

(2) Specific invoicing instructions will be specified at the TO level.

H. On-Ramping/Off-Ramping

Contractors will be required to recertify annually from the effective date of contract award, its small business status. Additionally, contractors are required to submit proposals for at least 50% of TOPRs for which they are eligible. Contractors not meeting these requirements may be “off-ramped” via termination for convenience at no cost to the Government.

The Government reserves the right to “on-ramp” additional contractors throughout the ordering period to ensure adequate competition in each service group. Should the Government exercise this right, a new solicitation with identical requirements, terms, and conditions will be issued to the FBO. Awardees will be added to the pool of VECTOR contractors for future competitions. Contracts awarded via the “on-ramp” process will share in, but not increase, the previously established ceiling. The “on-ramping” process will not extend the ordering period.

“On-ramping” and “off-ramping” processes may occur independently and are not guaranteed as a result of the other. The decision to “on-ramp” and “off-ramp” is at the sole discretion of the Government.

B.2 LIMITATIONS ON SUBCONTRACTING-- MONITORING AND COMPLIANCE (JUN 2011)

The contractor is advised in performing contract administration functions, the CO may use the services of a support contractor(s) retained by VA to assist in assessing the contractor's compliance with the limitations on subcontracting or percentage of work performance requirements specified in the clause. To that end, the support contractor(s) may require access to contractor's offices where the contractor's business records or other proprietary data are retained and to review such business records regarding the contractor's compliance with this requirement. All support contractors conducting this review on behalf of VA will be required to sign an “Information Protection and Non-Disclosure and Disclosure of Conflicts of Interest Agreement” to ensure the contractor's business records or other proprietary data reviewed or obtained in the course of assisting the CO in assessing the contractor for compliance are protected to ensure information or data is not improperly disclosed or other impropriety occurs.

Furthermore, if VA determines any services the support contractor(s) will perform in assessing compliance are advisory and assistance services as defined in FAR 2.101, Definitions, the support contractor(s) must also enter into an agreement with the contractor to protect proprietary information as required by FAR 9.505-4, obtaining access to proprietary information, paragraph (b). The contractor is required to cooperate fully and make available any records as may be required to enable the CO to assess the contractor's compliance with the limitations on subcontracting or percentage of work performance requirement.

B.3 PERFORMANCE WORK STATEMENT

1.0 SCOPE

This Performance Work Statement (PWS) describes the requirements for support of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) program offices and its customers in order to accomplish VA’s mission and strategic goals, priorities, and initiatives. Much of this support work is best performed through the use of expert contractor support, with critical market-based skills that augment the internal activities of VA program offices. This acquisition, referred to as Veteran Enterprise Contracting for Transformation and Operational Readiness (VECTOR), will provide a department-wide vehicle for a broad range of general management and business support services and solutions. VECTOR consists of seven groups of services: Group 1 – Management, Oversight and Improvement, Group 2 – Analyses, Group 3 – Training, Group 4 – Outreach, Group 5 – Supply Chain, and Group 6 – Human Resources and Staffing.

For the base contract and any subsequent Task Order (TO) awards, the contractor shall provide the contractor personnel, comprehensive management, materials, equipment, facilities, travel, supervision of contractor resources, and any required deliverables necessary to satisfy the requirement. Each contract will specify the scope of the service groups for which award is being made. The contractor shall perform the work in accordance with the resultant base contract, and any TO awards. Information Technology (IT) development and administrative or clerical tasks which are not strictly incidental to the requirements are outside the scope of this contract.

This PWS provides the scope of the base contract and general requirements. Specific requirements will be defined in each individual TO. Each TO will include requirements from one or more of the six groups. Each TO will be managed by a Government Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR) who has direct experience in the business requirement on which the TO is focused.

The services within the scope of this Indefinite Delivery Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contract, as described in Section 3.0 below, can be used by all VA organizations.

2.0 GENERAL INFORMATION

2.1 Type of Contract

The contract shall be an IDIQ contract. TOs shall be issued on a firm fixed price basis, either by labor hour, or deliverable, or on a time and materials basis as specified in the TO. VA organizations will issue Task Orders Proposal Requests (TOPRs) against this IDIQ contract.

Awardee contractors may submit a proposal in response to a TOPR, using the terms and evaluation factors found in the TOPR, as well as the terms and conditions set forth in Section B of the base contract, as guidance for preparing a proposal. A TO will be awarded to the Contractor that has proposed the best value solution to the requirement set out in the TOPR.

Services will be performed by contractors in labor categories defined by Section 3 of this PWS.

For each TO, the contractor shall provide the contractors requested, comprehensive management, and supervision of contractor resources, and any required deliverables.

2.2 Contract Ordering Period

The ordering period for the base IDIQ contract is five years with one option period of five years.

Each TO shall specify a period of performance that will govern that particular TO.

2.3 Place of Performance

The place of performance will be specified in each TO. Work may be required to be performed at a contractor facility (off-site), Government furnished facility (on-site), or any other location with the Continental United States. When work is performed on-site, the Government anticipates that the majority of the work will be performed in Washington D.C.

2.4 Travel

The travel requirements will be specified in each TO.

Contractor travel will be in accordance with FAR 31.205-46, Travel costs. For purposes of calculating travel reimbursement, the contractor shall use its provided facility as the duty station.

Local travel expenses will not be reimbursed. Non-local travel will require a 10 business day written authorization from the COR. Expenses for travel will be reimbursed based on actual expenses incurred up to the limits authorized by the current General Services Administration’s (GSA) per diem rates published on the GSA website. Each contractor invoice shall include copies of all receipts that support the travel costs claimed in the invoice. The contractor is only entitled to actual cost spent while on travel that falls within the parameters as set forth within the Federal Travel Regulations, to include food.

Local travel within a 50-mile radius from the contractor’s facility or assigned Government facility is considered the cost of doing business and will not be reimbursed. This includes travel, subsistence, and associated labor charges for travel time. Travel performed for personal convenience and daily travel to and from work at the contractor’s facility will not be reimbursed.

Travel, subsistence, and associated labor charges for travel time for travel beyond a 50-mile radius of the contractor’s facility may be authorized on a case-by-case basis and must be pre-approved by the COR. G&A is prohibited and will not be reimbursed.

2.5 Hours of Contractor Operations (Government-Provided Work Site)

Work performed on TOs issued under this contract are anticipated to occur Monday through Friday, within the hours of 0600 Eastern Standard Time (EST) and 1800 EST, except as authorized by the COR.

Federal law (5 U.S.C. § 6103) establishes the public holidays listed in these pages for Federal employees. Please note that most Federal employees work on a Monday through Friday schedule. For these employees, when a holiday falls on a non-workday - Saturday or Sunday -the holiday usually is observed on Monday (if the holiday falls on Sunday) or Friday (if the holiday falls on Saturday). Visit www.opm.gov to see holidays for a specific year.

2.6 Government-Furnished Information, Equipment, and Facilities

Government-Furnished Information (GFI), Government-Furnished Equipment (GFE), and Government-Furnished Facilities (GFF), if applicable, will be specified as necessary by each individual TO.

2.7 Contract Minimum and Maximum Dollar Values

In accordance with FAR 16.504(a)(4)(ii) the maximum aggregate dollar value for all TOs awarded under this IDIQ is $25,000,000,000.00 and the minimum dollar guarantee for the single awardee is $20,000.00.

3.0 SERVICE GROUPS AND LABOR CATEGORIES

3.1 General Requirements

Contractor personnel shall have the level of experience necessary to accomplish the requirements of this PWS. In addition, contractor personnel shall be acceptable to the Government in terms of personal and professional conduct, and in technical knowledge.

Furthermore, contractor personnel are expected to be proficient in using office automation equipment and software, and have sufficient written and verbal communication skills to support VA program offices, their customers and any other VA organizations. Should any contractor personnel be determined to be unacceptable in terms of technical competency or unacceptable conduct or behavior while on-site or while working on contract activities, the contractor shall immediately remove and replace the unacceptable on-site personnel at no additional cost to the Government. Contractor personnel are to serve in a support role; therefore, final decisions regarding inherently governmental functions will always be made by Government personnel.

3.2 Service Requirements

Services performed shall be of a non-personal nature. VA organizations will not provide supervision of contractor personnel. Contractor personnel shall at no time allow an employer-employee relationship to develop with VA organizations or their staff. VA organizations will refrain from any activities that create the appearance of such a relationship.

Contractors shall not perform inherently governmental functions including: decision-making, supervision of Government employees, supervision of other contractors on other contracts, and activities that create the appearance of performing such functions.

3.3 Service Groups

The contractor shall provide services, labor categories, and solutions necessary to fulfill the scope of one or more of the following groups:

3.3.1 Group 1 – Management, Oversight and Improvement

The contractor shall provide services as they relate to program and project management, strategic planning, performance measurement, quality measurement, business process reengineering, business process improvement, and business process management, and change management and transition, as outlined below.

3.3.1.1 Program and Project Management

The contractor shall provide support to assist the Government in implementing disciplined, comprehensive, and flexible program and project management processes, including monitoring of project metrics, rigorous risk management, and prompt reporting on Government-approved cost, schedule, performance, and risk baseline. The contractor shall also assist in the development of procurement request packages, including statements of work and cost estimates.

3.3.1.2 Strategic Planning

The contractor shall provide support of strategic planning, including development of strategic goals, objectives, strategies, performance measures, targets, improved programmatic outcomes, and linkages to programming, budgeting and evaluations.

3.3.1.3 Performance Measurement

The contractor shall provide support of strategic performance measurement development, including improved linkage between VA-wide strategic planning and goals and VA programmatic outcomes; and implementation of the Government Performance and Results Act (GPRA) Modernization Act (GPRAMA).

3.3.1.4 Business Process Reengineering, Improvement and Management

The contractor shall conduct studies in support of system redesign and business process reengineering, improvement and management. The contractor shall develop and execute implementation plans and support the process of implementing and sustaining improvements.

3.3.1.5 Change Management and Transition

The contractor shall support all activities associated with organizational change, including transition management, implementation of major initiatives, communications associated with major initiatives, risk assessment, stakeholder engagement, organizational transformation, and culture change.

3.3.1.6 Quality Measurement

The contractor shall provide support of quality management systems, tools, and techniques to help organizations transform, including, Lean Six Sigma (LSS), ISO 9000/9001, and the Malcolm Baldrige Quality Award criteria.

3.3.1.7 Data Governance

The contractor shall support in the management of the availability, usability, integrity, and security of the VA’s data. Services may include consultations, and process improvements.

3.3.2 Group 2 – Analyses

The contractor shall provide services as they related to studies and analyses and information and records management, as outlined below.

3.3.2.1 Studies/Surveys

The contractor shall provide studies as they relate to staffing, evaluation, human resources, organization, leadership, efficiency, effectiveness, gap analyses, organization development, and emergency preparedness. These services may include management analyses, including organizational studies that specifically assess and analyze current organization states and management systems and perform gap analyses of differences between current and targeted states, including findings and recommendations, return of investment analysis conducting surveys, focus groups, and other accepted techniques for data collection in support of organization studies that specifically assess and analyze current organization states and management systems.

3.3.2.2 Statistical and Actuarial Analysis

The contractor shall evaluate, recommend, design, and develop solutions to compile, evaluate, analyze, control, secure, and disseminate timely, relevant, objective, and accurate data and information to VA and VA stakeholders, including web-based designs, operational systems, document storage, applications, models, and assessment of existing legacy systems.

3.3.2.3 Management Analysis

The contractor shall conduct organizational studies and evaluations, design systems and procedures, conduct work simplification and measurement studies, and prepare operations and procedures manuals to assist management in operating more efficiently and effectively.

3.3.2.4 Records Information Management

The contractor shall conduct the proper practice of life cycle managing and editing the records of a VA entity. These services may include the digitization of hard records to electronic media, disposition of records, and storage of records in accordance with specific regulations.

3.3.2.5 Financial and Business Performance Auditing

The contractor shall conduct independent audits of designated programs and financial services to ensure compliance of applicable laws and statutes for various VA entities. These services may include pre-audit activities to ensure compliance, adherence to Generally Accepted Governmental Auditing Standards (GAGAS), and attestation engagements.

3.3.3 Group 3 – Training

The contractor shall design, conduct, and evaluate training in support of projects and programs.

3.3.3.1 Training Development

The contractor shall create training in various mediums for delivery to assigned staff for training.

3.3.3.2 Training Delivery

The contractor shall provide delivery of training in various formats to include: face to face, online, or hybrid formats.

3.3.4 Group 4 – Outreach

The contractor shall provide services as they relate to outreach, promotional materials, and advertising.

3.3.4.1 Advertising Services

The contractor shall develop materials to promote the public and private awareness of the Veteran’s Affairs mission, goals, initiatives and objectives to ensure complete understanding of the complex and technical aspects of the VA. Services may include the following components:

advertising objective determination, message decision / creation, media selection, outdoor marketing and media services, broadcast media (radio, TV and public service announcements), direct mail services, media planning, media placement services, advertising evaluation, and related activities to advertising services.

3.3.4.2 Media Buying

The contractor shall assist in the procurement of advertising and outreach activities that can be in the form of television stations time, periodicals ads, internet advertisement, and etc. for the VA. The contractor shall provide support in negotiating media in accordance with research and analysis and purchasing paid advertising to impact targeted audiences; generating excitement and awareness of VA benefits and services.

3.3.4.3 Public Relations Services/Outreach

The contractor shall assist in the strategic communication plan that builds beneficial relationships between the VA, the public, and other entities. The Contractor shall provide support to assist in developing plans for various Department-wide outreach campaigns and recommending the most effective way of communicating a message in print, electronic format, or both, including social media and web-based outreach.

3.3.4.4 Conference, Events, and Tradeshow Planning Services

The contractor shall develop and support the VA in preparation of conference, seminars, events and tradeshow planning services by providing materials that can be presented and/or provided to participants of these events. Services may include the following components for a show, event and/or booth: project management, coordination and implementation of third party participation, collection management of third party payment for participation, liaison support with venue, audiovisual and information technology support, topic and speaker identification, site location research, reservation of facilities, on-site meeting and registration support, editorial services, automation and telecommunications support, design and editing productions; and mailing and other communication with attendees including pre/post meeting mailings/travel support and computer database creation.

3.3.4.5 Promotional Materials

The contractor shall develop promotional materials in multiple medium. This type of medium can include pamphlets, posters, brochures, and etc. Services may include the following components: developing conceptual design and layouts, providing copywriting and technical writing services, creating sketches, drawings, publication designs, and typographic layouts; and furnishing custom or stock artwork (including electronic artwork).

3.3.4.6 Video/Film Production

The contractor shall develop video and/or film materials in multiple mediums to include digital media for the use by the VA. Services may include final editing, copyrights and editing to fit various formats, i.e. High-Definition, streaming, Moving Picture Experts Group (MPEG), etc.

3.3.4.7 Graphics Design

The contractor shall support in the development of visual communication through the use of photography, illustration, visual arts, page layout, etc. Services may include logo design, periodical design, web design, and signage.

3.3.5 Group 5 – Supply Chain

The contractor shall provide services as they relate to the discipline of supply chain management concepts to include process improvement, cold chain management, delivery and storage of goods, and cost benefit analytical studies.

3.3.5.1 Supply Chain Analysis

The contractor shall provide support in the analysis of supply chain efficiency and improvement measures. The services include all phases of planning, acquisition and management of logistics systems. These services may include planning, acquisition, design, development, testing, production, fielding, management, operation, maintenance, sustainment, improvement, modification and disposal.

3.3.5.2 Supply Chain Management

The contractor shall provide support in the management and analysis of the system of the VA, personnel, and resources involved in the moving and procurement of supplies from the supplier to the VA. These activities may include analysis of the transformation of raw materials to the finished product, the coordination and collaboration with channel partners, and responsibility for linking business functions and processes.

3.3.5.3 Supply Chain Planning

The contractor shall provide support in the process of predicting future requirements to balance supply and demand of the VA. Services may include the analysis of supply stock, future forecast, etc.

3.3.5.4 Inventory Management and Operation

The contractor shall provide support in the practice of overseeing and controlling the systemic ordering, storage and use of resources in stock of supplies and inventory for the VA. These activities may include the analysis of mitigating risks to increase value from the vendors used in the procurement process, cost control processes, and analysis of quality measurements of consumables, expendables, and supplies.

3.3.5.5 Supply Chain Optimization

The contractor shall provide support in the analytical study of identifying efficiencies or lack of efficiencies in the supply chain of the VA. Services may include providing consultation on process improvements of the supply chain, presentation of best practices by industry, quality management and assessment of supply chain.

3.3.6 Group 6 – Human Resources and Staffing

The contractor shall provide human resources and staffing solutions as they relate to the development of position descriptions, manpower surveys, personnel record transactions in the support of human capital management.

3.3.6.1 Performance Development Planning

The contractor shall provide support in the development of position description and qualification documents for human resource activities to include document generation for hiring officials and amendments to position description and responsibility documents, by utilizing Office of Personnel Management (OPM) and the Department of Veterans Affairs policies. Services may include providing position descriptions, levels of performance by experience matrices, and performance metrics.

3.3.6.2 Human Resources Operations

The contractor shall provide support in the human resources personnel payroll processes. Services may include relaying official job offers once approved in writing by a Federal HR Director or designee, assisting with payroll validation, uploading evaluations, record management, to include SF-50 “Notification of Personnel Action”, SF-52 “Request for Personnel Action”, VA-3918 “Intra-Agency Transfer Request”, VA-4659 “Incentive Awards Recommendation and Approval”, and performance management.

3.3.6.3 Manpower Surveys

The contractor shall provide support in the design and analysis of manpower studies for the VA.

Services may include assisting in the analysis of labor categories per task, man hours expended per task, and recommendation of human resource allocation.

3.3.6.4 Collective Bargaining Analysis and Assessments

The contractor shall provide support in the creation and evaluation of collective bargaining agreements, standard operating procedures, and other documents deployed for collective bargaining activities.

3.4 Labor Categories

Attachment A, Labor Categories, provides a comprehensive list of labor categories, descriptions, minimum education and experience requirements, as well as identification for which service groups the labor categories are applicable.

It is expected that the minimum education and experience will be in a field or specialty that directly relates to the labor category and TO requirements. The CO reserves the right to grant waivers for the education and experience requirements. Waivers for education may be on the basis of additional years of experience, industry certifications, or equivalent trainings. Waivers for experience may be on the basis of additional years of education and exceptionally specialized experience. Individual TOs may cite additional equivalencies that will be recognized. Contractor’s request for waiver must be provided in writing to the CO, and the CO’s authorization must be provided in writing to the contractor.

4.0 DELIVERABLES

The contractor shall provide all deliverables identified in the individual TOs in formats as specified in the TO. All deliverables, unless otherwise specified, shall use Microsoft Office compatible formats.

All deliverables shall be compliant with Section 508, 1998 Amendment to the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 according to the particular requirements for each such deliverable.

5.0 QUALITY ASSURANCE

5.1 Quality Assurance Surveillance Plan (QASP)

In accordance with FAR 37.102, TOs issued under this IDIQ will be performance-based to the maximum extent practicable. Each TO will define the QASP, to include specific performance standards and measures at the TO level.

5.2 Contractor Performance

Attachment B, Contractor Discrepancy Report (CDR), may be issued by a CO or COR to document less than acceptable performance by the contractor at any point during the period of performance. It should be noted that issuance of a CDR should not be the first form of communication or plan of resolution unless the seriousness of the situation warrants such formal documentation from onset. The CO, COR, and contractor shall maintain open and effective communications to avoid the issuance of CDRs to the maximum extent practicable. All parties acknowledge that a finalized CDR will become part of the official file and will be used to report on annual performance under the IDIQ. If use of a CDR is warranted, the CO/COR shall complete the CDR, citing the IDIQ and/or TO number and the specific IDIQ and/or TO section or clause related to the performance issue. The CO/COR shall provide a detailed and descriptive narrative of the background and issue. Upon receipt of the CDR, the contractor shall provide a timely and detailed response to the CO/COR. The contractor’s response shall include any important or relevant information or justification for the performance issue and a proposed resolution. The CO/COR will review the response from the contractor and the CO will issue a final recommendation or plan of action. The CO, COR, and contractor will maintain communication to ensure that the recommendation or plan of action is carried out.

The contractor’s performance on all TOs will be reported to the Contractor Performance Assessment Reporting System (CPARS) on an annual basis. The CO and COR will make use of information from CDRs and the TO Performance Evaluations, as well as any additional knowledge and information available to them with respect to the contractor’s performance, to complete the CPARS. Contractors shall familiarize themselves with the CPARS process and be prepared to respond to reports entered by the CO and COR.

6.0 SECURITY AND PRIVACY REQUIREMENTS

All contractors and contractor personnel shall be subject to the same Federal security and privacy laws, regulations, standards and VA policies as VA personnel, including the Privacy Act, 5 U.S.C. § 552a, regarding information and information system security. Contractors must follow all security and privacy requirements, per applicable VA regulations and directives.

SECTION C – SOLICITATION/CONTRACT CLAUSES

C.1 NOTICE OF HYBRID CONTRACT

This is an Indefinite Delivery Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contract that will result in Firm-Fixed Price and Labor-Hour task orders.

C.2 52.203-99 PROHIBITION ON CONTRACTING WITH ENTITIES THAT REQUIRE

CERTAIN INTERNAL CONFIDENTIALITY AGREEMENTS (DEVIATION) (FEB 2015)

(a) The Contractor shall not require employees or contractors seeking to report fraud, waste, or abuse to sign or comply with internal confidentiality agreements or statements prohibiting or otherwise restricting such employees or subcontractors from lawfully reporting such waste, fraud, or abuse to a designated investigative or law enforcement representative of a Federal department or agency authorized to receive such information.

(b) The contractor shall notify employees that the prohibitions and restrictions of any internal confidentiality agreements covered by this clause are no longer in effect.

(c) The prohibition in paragraph (a) of this clause does not contravene requirements applicable to Standard Form 312, Form 4414, or any other form issued by a Federal department or agency governing the nondisclosure of classified information.

(d)(1) In accordance with section 743 of Division E, Title VII, of the Consolidated and Further Continuing Resolution Appropriations Act, 2015 (Pub. L. 113-235), use of funds appropriated (or otherwise made available) under that or any other Act may be prohibited, if the Government determines that the Contractor is not in compliance with the provisions of this clause.

(2) The Government may seek any available remedies in the event the contractor fails to comply with the provisions of this clause.

(End of Clause)

C.3 FAR 52.212-4 CONTRACT TERMS AND CONDITIONS -- COMMERCIAL ITEMS (MAY

2015)

(a) Inspection/Acceptance. The Contractor shall only tender for acceptance those items that conform to the requirements of this contract. The Government reserves the right to inspect or test any supplies or services that have been tendered for acceptance. The Government may require repair or replacement of nonconforming supplies or reperformance of nonconforming services at no increase in contract price. If repair/replacement or reperformance will not correct the defects or is not possible, the Government may seek an equitable price reduction or adequate consideration for acceptance of nonconforming supplies or services. The Government must exercise its post-acceptance rights—

(1) Within a reasonable time after the defect was discovered or should have been discovered; and

(2) Before any substantial change occurs in the condition of the item, unless the change is due to the defect in the item.

(b) Assignment. The Contractor or its assignee may assign its rights to receive payment due as a result of performance of this contract to a bank, trust company, or other financing institution, including any Federal lending agency in accordance with the Assignment of Claims Act (31 U.S.C. 3727). However, when a third party makes payment (e.g., use of the Governmentwide commercial purchase card), the Contractor may not assign its rights to receive payment under this contract.

(c) Changes. Changes in the terms and conditions of this contract may be made only by written agreement of the parties.

(d) Disputes. This contract is subject to 41 U.S.C. chapter 71, Contract Disputes. Failure of the parties to this contract to reach agreement on any request for equitable adjustment, claim, appeal or action arising under or relating to this contract shall be a dispute to be resolved in accordance with the clause at FAR 52.233-1, Disputes, which is incorporated herein by reference. The Contractor shall proceed diligently with performance of this contract, pending final resolution of any dispute arising under the contract.

(e) Definitions. The clause at FAR 52.202-1, Definitions, is incorporated herein by reference.

(f) Excusable delays. The Contractor shall be liable for default unless nonperformance is caused by an occurrence beyond the reasonable control of the Contractor and without its fault or negligence such as, acts of God or the public enemy, acts of the Government in either its sovereign or contractual capacity, fires, floods, epidemics, quarantine restrictions, strikes, unusually severe weather, and delays of common carriers.