A07_Final_RFP_Questions_W56KGU-18-R-0003_Power_and_Soliciation_09_Jan_18.xlsx

XLSX spreadsheet 32 KB Posted Jan 11, 2018

Attached to: Solicitation for proposals for WOSB Set Aside Power and Energy Support Services
Solicitation number: W56KGU-18-R-0003
Issued by: Department of the Army Materiel Command Army Contracting Command Aberdeen Proving Ground

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File	Type	Posted
A07_Attachment_0005_Section_L_09_January_2018.pdf	PDF	Jan 24, 2018
A07_Attachment_0002_LOE_with_Position_Descriptions_Update_09_January_2018.pdf	PDF	Jan 24, 2018
A07_Amendment_0001_W56KGU18R0003_Power_and_Energy_17_Jan_2018.pdf	PDF	Jan 24, 2018
A07_Attachment_0005_CPI_Power_Attachment_0005_(SECTION_L)_FINAL_RFP_Files.pdf	PDF	Jan 11, 2018
A07_Attachment_0002_LOE_with_Position_Descriptions_Update_09_January_2018.pdf	PDF	Jan 11, 2018
A07_W56KGU-18-R-0003_Power_and_Energy_Solicitation_Questions.xlsx	XLSX spreadsheet	Dec 27, 2017
A07_Attachment_0001_12_Dec_2017_-_PWS_Tactical_Expeditionary_Power_and_Energy_Services.docx	DOCX document	Dec 22, 2017
A07_Attachment_0003_DD_254_July_2017.pdf	PDF	Dec 22, 2017
A007_Exhibit_D_A004_CDRL_DI-SESS-81002D_Dev_Design_Model_&_Drawings_A004.pdf	PDF	Dec 22, 2017
A007_Exhibit_C_A003_CDRL_DI-SAFT-80102B_Safety_Assessment_Report_(SAR)_A003.pdf	PDF	Dec 22, 2017
A007_Exhibit_B_A002_CDRL_DI-MISC-89711A__Final_Technical_Report_A002.pdf	PDF	Dec 22, 2017
A07_Attachment_0006_Section_M_Basis_For_Award.pdf	PDF	Dec 22, 2017
A07_Attachment_0002_LOE_w_Descriptions.pdf	PDF	Dec 22, 2017
A07_Finalized_W56KGU18R0003_Solicitation_Power_and_Energy.pdf	PDF	Dec 22, 2017
A007_Exhibit_A_A001_CDRL_DI-MGT-80277_Monthly_Status_Report_A001.pdf	PDF	Dec 22, 2017
A07_Attachment_0004_Q&A_Form.xlsx	XLSX spreadsheet	Dec 22, 2017
A07_Attachment_0005_CPI_Power_Attachment_0005_(SECTION_L)_FINAL_RFP_Files.docx.pdf	PDF	Dec 22, 2017
A07_Attachment_0001_28_Nov_2017_-_PWS_Tactical_Expeditionary_Power_and_Energy_Services.docx	DOCX document	Nov 30, 2017
A07_Attachment_2_LOE_W56KGU18R0003.pdf	PDF	Nov 30, 2017
CPI_Power_Attachment_0005_(SECTION_L)_14_November_2017.docx	DOCX document	Nov 22, 2017
A07_W56KGU-18-R-0003_Power_and_Energy_Solicitation_Questions.xlsx	XLSX spreadsheet	Nov 22, 2017
A07_Attachment_0001_23_May_2017_-_PWS_Tactical_Expeditionary_Power_and_Energy_Services.docx	DOCX document	Nov 22, 2017
A07_Solicitation_W56KGU18R0003_RFP_Power_and_Energy.pdf	PDF	Nov 22, 2017
Attachment_0006_(SECTION_M)_BASIS_FOR_AWARD_14_November_2017.docx	DOCX document	Nov 22, 2017

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Sheet1

Question #	Page	Paragraph	Industry Reference to Question	Industry Question	Government Answer
1	2	1	This paragraph cites FAR 19.805-1(a)(1) which applies to 8A concerns not Woman Owned Small Business.	Request the Government cite the appropriate Woman Owned Small Business FAR clause.	This was updated with the final RFP release
2	3	6	Draft RFP shows a 45 day response time to the RFP and a due date of January 17, 2018 due date.	Will the Government please confirm that the due date will be January 17, 2018?	The RFP Due date , with proposals due on Monday 12 February 2018. This permits extra time due to the Section L updates.
3	PWS Pg. 8 of 27	PWS Section 1.5.9 Key Personnel	PWS and Section L are not clear on specifically which Key Personnel are to be proposed.	Request the Government specify exactly which personnel are to bid as key.	The Key Personnel and LOW descriptions have been updated in the final RFP.
4	PWS Pg.1	PWS 1.3 “Energy Storage"	Extreme lightweight materials and components with advanced electrochemical technologies that can enable safe operation for periods greater than 72 hours.”	What is the meaning of “Extreme lightweight materials” (packaging, chemistries or both)?	Extreme light weight materials are those components or basic materials that will help to minimize reduce the weight/volume of the overall energy storage system
5	Page 2	PWS 1.3 “Power Management & Distribution	High efficiency, lightweight, multi-path, cable-less distribution architectures …”	Periods greater than 72 hours may be a limiting factor to available technology / chemistry depending on the load power levels (peak and continuous) required and how the energy is stored. Are the power loads going to be specified for different applications and so different load requirements.	The overarching goal is to obtain a minimum of 72 hours without resupply. The exact power profile to meet this goal will be specified within each task awarded.
6	Page 2	PWS 1.3 “Non-Fossil Fuel Based Power Generation	Power generation technologies that are chemically stable, non-fossil fuel based and can enable continuous power generation for periods greater than 72 hours.”	Is diesel fuel considered fossil fuel in this limitation and does this mean, for example, diesel reformation technology (for fuel cells) is excluded here?

How does this “non-fossil” requirement, in connection with 72 hour requirement, play in creating hybrids, for example, with gasoline or diesel generators? How does it apply from logistics point of view?

	Diesel and gasoline are considered fossil fuels and as such are excluded as a potential for meeting this requirement. Since this is an R&D effort the logistic impact of using potential solutions is not a matter of consideration.
	7	Pg. 2	PWS 1.3 “Fast/Ultra-fast Charging Methodologies	Charging methods utilizing novel electronic circuit designs that enable safe battery charging of a fully depleted battery within one (1) hour or less.”	Not every battery/chemistry in existing batteries is designed or capable of accepting the full charge in 1 hour or less without detrimental effects to it. Does it stipulate a contract for creating a system of battery and battery charger that meets this requirement?
Is this requirement (1 hour or less) also valid for wireless charging technologies?	This requirement would only be applicable for battery chemistries that have the potential to be charged to full capacity within one hour, along with the charger that is required to meet the requirement.
	8	Pg. 2	PWS 1.3 “Electromechanical Energy Conversion”	“Electromechanical Energy Conversion”	Is safe to assume that the “non-fossil” requirement is not relevant here?	Correct
	9	Pg. 2	PWS 1.3 “Advanced Power Source Analysis Tools	“Advanced Power Source Analysis Tools” and Diagnostic/Prognostic Test & Evaluation Equipment”	Do these topics address existing commercial software, or their adaptation, or a totally new, dedicated development?	Whatever combination of commercial software, adaptation of commercial software or totally new software that will meet the requirement as detailed in the given task order
	10		PWS 1.5.6.4 Pg. 13	Contractor shall be required to have an Operations Security (OPSEC) Standard Operating Procedure (SOP)/Plan within 90 days of contract award and provide a copy to the COR who will provide to the Government OPSEC Officer for review and approval. The plan will include a process to identify critical information, where it is located, who is responsible for it, how to protect it and why it needs to be protected. Contractor personnel performing Information Technology (IT) sensitive duties on site may be required an investigation, IAW AR 25-2.	the DD Form 254 BLOCK 11 J does NOT check “OPSEC requirements” but it was mentioned in the solicitation’s PWS’ par. 1.5.6.4, Contractor shall be required to have an OPSEC Standard Operating Procedure plan. Can the government please clarify if this is aa requirement?	The DD254 has been updated and posted to FBO with the final RFP.
	11	Pg.4	PWS 1.5.6.5	“All contractors/subcontractors supporting this effort must be U.S. citizens. When a clearance is required, the contractor must be able to obtain and maintain a minimum of a Secret Clearance.	Does it mean that a foreign company will not be able to be a subcontractor, even if it would of the best interest to the Army and crucial to the program success, for example, if such a company has one of the kind, proprietary technology that no one else can supply?

If there were exceptions to this rule and a foreign company was allowed to be a subcontractor, would the security clearances be required?

	No, All proposed options will be evaluated.
	12	Pg. 19	5.4.1 Energy Storage Technologies	The contractor shall develop lightweight materials and components (to include super capacitors) with advanced electrochemical technologies that can enable safe operation for periods greater than 72 hours. Energy storage technology areas of interest include, but are not limited to, materials utilizing advanced chemistries (i.e. lithium carbon monofluoride, lithium air and lithium sulfur) with the goal to optimize power and energy density of Soldier wearable, standard military and intelligent smart grid power sources.
	Are the power levels and intervals (continuous and peak) going to be specified for different applications (power load requirements) at the time the solicitation is issued?
Depending on the power loads and to achieve the 72 hour goal, a hybridization may be necessary with fossil and non –fossil fuels. Is this acceptable or even encouraged?	The goal of this effort is to develop advanced electrochemical technologies, or combination of technologies, that can provide 72 hours of uninterrupted energy. The exact load profile used to determine the ability of a potential solution will be provided with the specific task.
	13	Pg.19-20	5.4.2 Energy Harvesting Technologies	“The Contractor shall develop Soldier-borne, Small Unit and Expeditionary harvesting devices that enable on-the-move and stationary power generation from alternative or renewable energy sources for periods greater than 72 hours. “	What platform sizes, power and energy ranges are in question here? Would using a biofuel (such as garbage) for power generation be considered also for these applications?
	Potential solutions are only limited by the generis application (soldier worn, mobile or stationary). The exact power profile used to measure the ability to support 72 hours of operation will be detailed in the specific task.
	14	Pg.20	5.4.3 Power Management and Distribution Technologies Pg. 20	“Power Management and Distribution technology areas of interest include, but are not limited to, distributed energy management, power management for smart grids and advanced wireless power transfer (i.e. short range wireless power transmission, directed energy transmission and microwave power transfer).”	Are there a security and safety concerns for wireless power transfer (encryption, shielding etc.) that will have to be taken into the consideration? Are there any limitations, or preferences relating to how power might be transferred wirelessly during stand down or combat operations?	Safety is always a concern, any security concerns will be detailed in the specific task. All potential technologies will be considered
	15	Pg.20	5.4.4 Non-Fossil Fuel Based Power Generation	The Contractor shall develop and evaluate chemically stable liquid energy storage technologies that are non-fossil fuel based (i.e. PEM/DMFC/RMFC/SOFC, solid hydrogen, hybrids) and can enable continuous power generation for periods greater than 72 hours. “	What kinds of fuels are considered to be available for use in fuel cells? Can we consider hydrogen, or systems that might produce hydrogen as a result of reforming reactions? Is this topic limited to liquid only as is stipulated there? If so what solid hydrogen is listed there, is it a hydride form? Regarding non fossil fuels, is there any preference as to whether this might include garbage conversion, or simpler solar or motion conversion, or the use of hydrides? Are there any preferred types of systems for use in operations extended to 72 hours and beyond, such as fuel cells, solar, etc.?	Any non-fossil fuel based technology that can provide an energy storage capability will be considered
	16	Pg.20	PWS 5.4.5 Fast/Ultra-Fast Charging Methodologies	The Contractor shall develop charging methods utilizing novel electronic circuit designs that enable safe battery charging within one (1) hour or less. The Contractor shall evaluate these charging schemes within field capable charging systems such as solar, wind and alternative approaches (i.e. steam powered and micro-engine generators). The effort shall include proposing developmental improvements that will reduce the weight, decrease the volume, and improved circuitry to increase charger efficiency.	Can the fast charging technologies utilize heat absorbing materials in the cells that prevent excess temperature rises in the batteries?	Any technology, or combination of technologies, that meets the requirement set forth in the specific task will be considered
	17	Pg.20	PWS 5.4.6 “Electromechanical Energy Conversion	The Contractor shall develop and evaluate advanced generator, internal/external combustion & Stirling engine and environmental control technologies that significantly minimize energy losses through advanced power electronic controls to extend operational life of expeditionary power systems. Technology focus areas of interest include, but are not limited to, the following:

- Environmental Control Technologies

- Combined Heat and Power (CHP) Generation

- Advanced Mobile Power Sources

- Advanced Stirling Engine Designs

- Cross-Platform Power Technologies

- Compact Silicon Carbide Based Power Inverters

- Advanced Materials

- Jet Propellant Based Power Sources What kind of restrictions are on the types of diesel fuels that might be used, such as whether it should be sulfur free, and other limitations on the types of hydrocarbons in the fuel?

Can the proposed improvements in efficiency of fuel conversion include the electrostatic atomization of fuels as a way to allow for the spark combustion of diesel fuels, and might this be a desirable feature?

The use of a logistics fuel as opposed to providing a new fuel to the logistics tail is preferred, but other r options will be considered
18	Pg. 20-21	PWS5.4.7 Advanced Power Source Analysis Tools & 5.4.8 Diagnostic/Prognostic Test and Evaluation Equipment	5.4.7 Advanced Power Source Analysis Tools

The Contractor shall provide support in developing, improving, implementing and certifying advanced analysis tools that enable data collection of power source designs via modeling and simulation that can be used to support technical decision making. Analysis tools of interest include, but are not limited to, the following:

- Computer Aided Design/Engineering (CAD/CAE)

- Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD)

- Decision Support Systems (DSS)

- Power and Environmental Assessment Software (AUTODISE)

5.4.8 Diagnostic/Prognostic Test and Evaluation Equipment

The Contractor shall provide state-of-the-art test

- X-ray Diffraction Instruments (XRD)and evaluation equipment that enables accurate identification, examination and forecasting of power & energy technology performance. Special emphasis on equipment systems that utilize wireless technologies and supporting software in design and integration of the alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC) Power Assessment of Tactical Operation Center, Mine Resistant & Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicles and Renewable Power System. Wireless technologies shall operate in a military environment, both in stationary and mobile applications. Other Diagnostic/Prognostic Test & Evaluation Equipment of interest include, but are not limited to, the following:

- Data Acquisition Systems

- DC Load Simulators & Power Supply Units

- Automated Power Source Characterization Equipment

- Temperature Environmental Chambers

- Scanning Electron Microscopes (SEM)	Do these topics address existing commercial software, or their adaptation, or a totally new, dedicated development?	All proposed options will be evaluated.
	19	RFP Pg.4	RFP Page 4; Section B	Item No. 0005 "Phase In"	What is "Phase In"?	This is defined in Paragraph 1.5.13 of the PWS
	20	RFP Page 11	RFP Page 11; section C; paragraph 1.	The following 2 sentences were repeated in the paragraph, "The Government shall not exercise any supervision or control over the contract service providers performing the services herein. Such contract service providers shall be accountable solely to the Contractor who, in turn is responsible to the Government."	Was this an oversight or was there supposed to be different sentences stated to end the paragraph?	No. The government will not supervise and contracted personal.
	21	Pg.13	PWS Page 13; para 1.5.6.4	Last sentence . . . "Contractor personnel performing Information technology (IT) sensitive duties on site may be required an investigation IAW AR 25-2."	Are there a couple of words missing between "required" and "an investigation"??	No, a person working on IT (in accordance with AR 25-2 Information Assurance) May be required to have a background investigation.
	22	Pg. 14-15	PWS Pages 14 & 15; paras 1.5.6.16 & 1.5.6.22	Text is the same in both paragraphs except the reference to AR 381-12 is excluded in para 1.5.6.22	Can you clarify is these two sections?	This is for on site contractor support.
	23	Pg. 15	PWS Page 15; para 1.5.6.26	N/A is stated at the end of the paragraph.	Is this a typo?	Correction has been made
	24	Pg. 17	PWS Page 17; paragraphs describing Software Engineering prerequisites	Both paragraphs describing Software Engineers speak to having "the technical background and skills to perform in all phases of hardware design . . ."	Are there any specific references or standards relating to software for these positions?	The requirements are in the position and LOE descriptions. The LOE has been updated as of 09 January 2018.
	25	Page 21 of 27 PWS 5.6	Material Purchasing	Material Purchasing -The Contractor shall provide an established and fully-functioning purchasing system for procuring project materials that provides the

ability to place, monitor, track, and review and approve purchase orders via a web-based system. The system shall provide for the following capabilities; provide government-designated users with a web-based system that provides the ability to place, monitor, track, review and approve requests for quotations (RFQ) and/or purchase order (PO) requests, provide real time status of procurement from request to delivery, provide funding status by individual project, allow for multiple levels of system usage rights, including view only, RFQ/PO request creation, RFQ/PO review, and final RFQ/PO approval/release, allow government-designated users to create parts catalogs and project kits, and create PWSs for non-cataloged items, contractor shall issue request for quotes to vendors within 24 hours from initial Government request, within 48 hours from issuance of request for quotes, the Contractor shall provide the price quotes to the Government representative or provide rationale and due date for price quotes that require more time, Contractor shall award purchase orders within 24 hours from the time of Government approval of quote and shall provide on a monthly basis a listing of all material purchased for this effort. The purchased material listing shall identify the particular project for which each item was purchased. The purchased material listing shall be attached to the Monthly Progress and Status Report (CDRL A001) and maintained in accordance with contractor material inventory processes. In accordance with Army Regulation (AR) 25-1, when procuring for Army use Commercial Off The Shelf (COTS) software, desktops, notebook computers, video teleconferencing or other commercial IT equipment (e.g. routers, servers, printers) the contractor shall use the CHESS contract vehicle: https://chess.army.mil In accordance with CHESS contract, ITES-2H, located at https://chess.army.mil/Contract/Ites2H , the CHESS scope is defined as The ordering is open to Army Only. Army organizations purchasing desktop or notebook computers must utilize the CHESS Consolidated Buy. The scope of the Army Desktop and Mobile Computing-2 contract: Ordering is open to ONLY the Army, DOD and other Federal Agencies. The Contracting Officer Representative (COR) will review and authorize all material procurements prior to the contractor completing any purchases. Items that might need to be purchased could include: chemicals, electronic parts and materials, power sources and supplies, tools, environmental systems and measurement instruments

Can a Contractor purchase through the CHESS site? What are the requirements that are needed to Purchase through CHESS site? Do we need a government credit card in order to purchase through the CHESS site?	Yes, a contractor can purchase through the Chess web site.
26		PWS page 17; paragraph describing Subject Matter Expert	Statement that the Labor Category "requires an advanced science or engineering degree and/or a minimum of 20 years of progressive experience . . . inside the DoD."	Would an individual who has worked for a defense contractor be considered someone who has experience "inside the DOD"? Or would that individual have to have been in the military or a civilian employee of the DoD?	Yes, anyone in support of the DOD.
27	Attachment 0006 (SECTION L) Pg. 6 Sub Factor 2	Attachment 0006 (SECTION L) PROPOSAL SUBMISSION Pg. 6 Sub Factor 2 Management Plan	FAILURE TO PROVIDE CLEARED PERSONNEL: Failure to provide qualified cleared personnel will cause a severe impact on the U.S. Government mission. The Government maintains its right to exercise the Termination clause or other rights granted by the terms of the contract by law	if an employee is not working on a unclassified task, would they still required to obtain a security clearance?	The RFP has been updated.
28	Attachment 0006 Page 8-12	Attachment 0006 (SECTION L) PROPOSAL SUBMISSION Page 8-12	Cost Section: This is a CPFF contract for Research & Development services. All labor services will be awarded on a CPFF CLIN. Material, Travel, and ODCs will be on a Cost Reimbursement CLIN (exclusive of any indirect rates, no fee of any sort). Offeror’s shall propose on all CLINs as follows.	All labor services will be awarded on a CPFF CLIN. Material, Travel, and ODCs will be on a Cost Reimbursement CLIN Can the government clarify if G&A is allowed on these non labor expenses? Table in page 12 : Materials Travel and ODC CLIN Worksheet Sample, it shows G&A, does this mean that G&A is allowable in all expenses?	No. G&A is omitted travel, materials. Materials overhead is generally included in Materials.
29	Attachment 0006 Pg. 10	Attachment 0006 (SECTION L) PROPOSAL SUBMISSION	Materials Worksheet

The Offeror’s cost proposal shall include a set dollar amount of $2,727,500 for the base period, $2,782,050 for option year one (1), $2,837,681 for option year two (2), $2,894,445 for option year three (3) and $2,952,334 for option year four (4) for material expenses. Fixed Fee/Profit or any sort of fee is not allowable for Material Costs on this effort.

Travel worksheet- The Offeror’s cost proposal shall include a set dollar amount for travel expenses of $150,000 for each of the base period, and for options year one (1), two (2) three (3), and four (4). Fixed Fee/Profit or any sort of fee is not allowable for Travel costs on this effort

Since materials and travel are being completed as ‘placeholder’ amounts – does that mean that as a bidder we do not need to provide any backup?	Provide a BOE or quotes for materials.
30	Attachment 0001- Page 8	Attachment 0001- Page 8	1.5.8.2 Monthly Status Reviews. The contractor shall host a monthly meeting with the, COR, COTR and other Government personnel, as appropriate, to review the Contractor's performance. The agenda for these meetings will consist, at a minimum the following items:

- Contractor appraising the Government of problems, if any, being experienced and recommended corrective action.

- Summary of all open tasks and material purchases

- Status of funding expenditures for open tasks

- Potential new task starts

Clarification on monthly status reviews- Location – Does it have to be in person or conference call?	It is preferred to be in person, but all options are allowed.
31	PWS pg. 17 of 23	PWS section 5.5 Logistics Support	5.5 Logistics Support. The Contractor shall provide the necessary logistical support (i.e. equipment, facilities, technical information and trained personnel) that is essential to the successful completion of all Technology Development efforts aforementioned in Section 5.3. Please note that Technology Development efforts are in PWS Section 5.4.	Request the Government confirm that PWS Section 5.5 Logistics Support applies to PWS Section 5.4 Technology Development Support.	The requirement is stated as intended.
32	Solicitation page 2	paragraph 1 states as follows	“[t]his solicitation is being issued as a Sole-Source Total Woman Owned Small Business (WOSB) Set-Aside...” (emphasis added)	Please verify the reference to “sole source” in this sentence.	This solicitation is limited to Woman Owned Small Businesses. The final RFP will provide the correct wording.
33	Section L Pg. 1	paragraph 1	“[t]he Offeror’s proposal shall be submitted in hard copy...”, however, paragraph 2 (see also page 2 and Solicitation Section A, page 3, paragraph 6) states that “Offerors are required to submit their proposals electronically via AMRDEC Safe Access File Exchange (SAFE)”	Please resolve this apparent inconsistency.	No hard copies are permitted. They should be submissted via the SAFE site. Section L has been revised.
34	Section L, page 1	paragraph 2	please clarify the second sentence in the third paragraph; specifically, the phrase that reads as follows: “...and one submission fully redacted of all identifying names, logos, trademarks, company identification acronyms, and sanitized Cost Volume II” (emphasis added)	Please clarify whether this is asking for a redacted submission and a separate sanitized Cost Volume II.	The government requires a redacted version for evaluations.
35	Section L, page 4	paragraph 3	is the compliance matrix included within the 50 page limitation for the Technical Proposal	Can the government consider the Compliance matrix to be excluded from the page count?	The compliance matrix is part of the 50 page limit
36	Section L, page 4	paragraph 3	Sub-Factor 1 - Technical Capability	Please clarify what is contemplated by the references to “multiple contractors” (in addition to the offeror’s proposed subcontractors)	The final RFP will clarify the intent of this paragraph. If a subcontractor, or multiple subcontractors, will be used in providing any of the support identified, the Offeror shall specifically identify what work each subcontractor will provide and provide details demonstrating how each subcontractor plans to accomplish the task.
37	Section L, page 5	paragraph (a),	(a) The Offeror shall demonstrate a clear understanding of meeting the requirements presented in the PWS Part 5.2 – 5.6, address all uncertainties and propose resolutions. The Offeror shall describe any risks associated with the requirements identified in the PWS and their risk mitigation plans. The overall risk level will be based on the level of understanding of risks and the risk level after the risk mitigation plans would be implemented. Risk may not need to be identified for each individual PWS paragraph.	Can you please clarify why the last sentence in this paragraph indicates that “[r]isk may not need to be identified for each individual PWS paragraph” (emphasis added).	Yes, risk may not be identified for each PWS paragraph. Risk should only be addressed for those portions of the PWS that address technology advancement.
38	Solicitation Section M,	Pg. 2 of 6 Factor 1- Technical	Please provide the relative order of importance of the 3 Technical sub-factors. Based upon the Proposal Submission section of the Solicitation and the volume and complexity of the information that is required to be included in the offerors’ proposals, as well as its criticality to the evaluation process.	It would appear that a structure analogous to that used to define the relative order of importance of the Evaluation Factors would be appropriate (i.e., the Technical Capability Sub-factor is more important than the Management Approach Sub-factor and the Management Approach Sub-factor is more important than the Quality Assurance Surveillance Plan (QASP) Sub-factor).	Each sub factor within the Technical Factor are of equal weight.
39	2) Solicitation Section L, page 5	Key Personnel	PWS 1.5.9 AND SECTION L PAGE 5.	Please verify that the only two Key Personnel are the offeror’s Program Manager (Senior/Lead) and Subject Matter Expert (SME).
The PWS requires at least these key personal, but others can be proposed. Key personnel are those persons that are either listed in the PWS or are employees of the offeror who are determined to be critical to the management and success of the contract.
40	1) Solicitation Section L pages 5-6	Key Personnel	states that “[t]he Offeror and proposed employees must submit a signed letter of intent for all Key Personnel stating that the person whose resume is submitted is aware of the submittal and understands that this is a full-time position in support of the requirement”.	Please explain how that reference correlates with the Level of Effort which indicates that the SME(s) must work 2,500 hours in each 12-month period	There can be multiple SME's working on this effort.
41	PWS 1.5.9	Key Personnel	The follow personnel are considered key personnel by the Government: The Contractor shall provide a contract manager who shall be responsible for the performance of the work. The name of this person and an alternate who shall act for the Contractor when the manager is absent shall be designated in writing to the KO and COR.	Are the contract Manager and alternate considered key personnel, and would they be additional to the program manager and SME.	Those personnel that the offers deems critical to the overall success of the contract should be addressed.
42	PWS 1.5.9	Key Personnel	The follow personnel are considered key personnel by the Government: The Contractor shall provide a contract manager who shall be responsible for the performance of the work. The name of this person and an alternate who shall act for the Contractor when the manager is absent shall be designated in writing to the KO and COR.	What are the qualification requirements for the contract Manager and the Alternate?	There are no specific qualifications for the Contracts manager or Alternate
43	Solicitation Section L, page 7	First Paragraph	Organizational Conflict of Interest (OCI)	Please confirm that if the offeror is not aware of any actual or potential OCI affecting them or any of their subcontractors, there is no requirement to submit an OCI Risk Mitigation Plan	Correct. But the offeror shall state this in the proposal
44	Solicitation Section L, page 16	Pricing Methodology paragraph 3	(h) refers to Solicitation Section H-11.	Please include that section in the Final Solicitation	The H-11 should be removed.
45	Solicitation Section L, page 17 of 22	Solicitation Section L, page 17 of 22	Supporting Documentation for S/IE proposed efforts shall include the following:	Please clarify the wording in the first bullet which reads as follows: “For all Service Vendors proposed as ODCs or S/IE: provide a breakout of costs as detailed below and in the same level of detail required for the Prime Offeror listed above when decision by the Prime or higher level” (emphasis added)	A detailed cost breakout is required for any service vendors proposed.
46	Solicitation Section L, page 19	Past Performance, Section 3	Subcontracts, appears to identify “major subcontractor” as “all subcontractors who will be providing critical hardware/services or whose subcontract is for more than 10% of the total proposed cost/price”.	Please verify that this provision is only applicable to “major subcontractors” and not to all subcontractors. Additionally, this definition is inconsistent with that included in the Past Performance portion of Section M which states that “Major subcontractors are defined as members of an Offeror’s overall team who are expected to perform ten percent or more of the proposed effort”. Please resolve this discrepancy	"A major subcontractor is defined as an organization that will propose to be a major contributor for any given technology area
47	Solicitation Section L, page 21	paragraph 2	states that “[n]o assumptions, terms, conditions, caveats or exceptions submitted with RFPs in response to TORs will be accepted or incorporated into the awarded contract” (emphasis added).	Please explain the intent of item 2 of this portion of this Proposal Submission provision, and its applicability to Task Order Requests (TORs). If the RFP-related portion of this provision is retained, should the language be changed to “in response to RFPs”?	No deviations to the requirements of the RFP submitted by an offeror will be accepted.
48	Solicitation Section L page 22,	paragraph 8	states that “[t]he Government reserves the right to request a Subcontracting Plan”	Please verify the accuracy of this provision since Small Businesses are not required to submit Subcontracting Plans	Small Business are not required to submit a subK plan, but it may be required in showing the requirement to meet 50% as the Prime.
49	Solicitation Section M(3)	Source Selection Team (SST) (Appendix A)	Appendix A appears to be the Source selection team or some guidance associate with the source selection team	Does the government intend to provide appendix A	No
50	2	Section J, Pg. 35, Attachment 2, Level Of Effort.	Attachment 2, Level Of Effort (LOE) was not included with the Draft RFP and section L does not allow any deviation from that LOE	Will the Government provide a draft Level Of Effort prior to final RFP release?	Was Posted to FBO, and the LOR is updated as of 09 January 2018
51	2	Section J, Pg. 35, Attachment 3, DD254	Attachment 3, DD254 was not included in the Draft RFP.	Will the Government provide a draft DD254 prior to final RFP release?	Will be provided with Final RFP release
52	2	1	This paragraph cites FAR 19.805-1(a)(1) witch applies to 8A concerns not Woman Owned Small Business.	Request the Government cite the appropriate Woman Owned Small Business FAR clause.	Will be corrected in Section A Final RFP
53	3	6	Draft RFP shows a 45 day response time to the RFP and a due date of February 7, 2018 due date.	Will the Government please confirm that the due date will be February 7, 2018?	The final due date for proposals will be updated to allow for 45 days, and submission will be on Monday 12 February 2018
54	PWS Pg. 8 of 27	PWS Section 1.5.9 Key Personnel	PWS and Section L are not clear on specifically which Key Personnel are to be proposed.	Request the Government specify exactly which personnel are to bid as key.	Updated PWS has been posted on FBO
55	PWS pg 17 of 23	PWS section 5.5 Logistics Support	5.5 Logistics Support. The Contractor shall provide the necessary logistical support (i.e. equipment, facilities, technical information and trained personnel) that is essential to the successful completion of all Technology Development efforts aforementioned in Section 5.3. Please note that Technology Development efforts are in PWS Section 5.4.	Request the Government confirm that PWS Section 5.5 Logistics Support applies to PWS Section 5.4 Technology Development Support.	The requirement is stated as intended.
56	18 of Section L (Attachment 0005)	VOLUME III - PAST PERFORMANCE	Page count of Past Performance Volume	Is there an overall page count limitation for all of Volume III - Past Performance?	There is not an overall limit, the limit is at the contract and subcontract level. The final page count will be determined by the number of contracts and subcontracts proposed. Per Section L, page 18 -there is a three (3)-page per each contract/subcontract limitation for the Past Performance volume, excluding Past Performance Questionnaire Forms.
57	18 of Section L (Attachment 0005)	VOLUME III - PAST PERFORMANCE	Number of past performance citations provided for evaluation.	Is there a limitation on the number of Past Performance References we can use?	There is no limitation, but the requirement is that they must be applicable to this effort. Per Section L ,page 18 Past Performance submission requirements, ALL government and commercial contracts, relevant to the efforts required by this solicitation - to the Prime and EACH major subcontractor awarded during the last three years SHALL be submitted. Stated in Section L, as follows, " Offeror’s shall submit all Government and/or commercial contracts for the prime Offeror and each major subcontractor in performance or awarded during the past three years, from the issue date of this RFP, which are relevant to the efforts required by this solicitation".
58	Page 3 of Section L (Attachment 0005)		PII contained within the technical proposal	Page 3 of Section L (Attachment 0005) states that no PII such as Name, Address, Phone Number, and email address shall be included in the Technical Proposal. Does this include the Cover Page, Offeror POC information?	The only document that should show any PII information for this volume, is the letter of intent. The Cover Letter is a separate submission requirement, and shall not be attached to the technical volume. See Section L, Page 2 #2 for Proposal Submission Requirements.
59	Section L, Page 7 and 8 of 22	Section L, 1; Instructions for submitting the Technical Factor	Table - submission instructions for the Technical Factor provides each factor in separate files.	Should the technical Volume be submitted as ONE Volume (file) or should each sub factor be a separate file as stated in the table in Section L Page 7 of 22 or THREE files as stated on page 8	The technical volume can be submitted as one file with the appropriate Subfactors identified.
60			This RFP requires significant collaboration with team mates for both the technical response and pricing. The RFP was released on the last business day prior to a three-day holiday weekend, and the response period includes two additional holidays that fall on business days. Many businesses and Universities are closed through this holiday period making communication and collaboration impossible.

FAR 5.201(e) states: Agencies must allow at least a 45-day response time for receipt of bids or proposals from the date of publication of the notice required in 5.201 for proposed contract actions categorized as research and development if the proposed contract action is expected to exceed the simplified acquisition threshold. PWS 1.1 clearly states that this is an R&D effort as does the response to question #6 received 27 December 2017 via FBO.

Request the Government extend the due date to February 9, 2018 in order to have sufficient time to collaborate with team mates, incorporate Government response to contractor questions and prepare the best possible proposal response.	The Government will extend the due date through 12 February 2018, providing a 45 day opening for the proposal process. The final RFP was issued on 22 December 2017. No additional extensions will be considered.
61	Response to contractor questions released on FBO Dec. 27, 2017	Response to Question 33	The answers to contractor questions came out several days after the release of the RFP. The response to some of the questions suggest that a correction will come out with the final RFP however those changes were not reflected in the Final that was released on December 22.	Does the Government anticipate releasing a revised RFP?	No, a FINAL RFP was released onto FBO on 22 December 2017. Only answers to the questions pertaining to corrections and we may change the attachments depending on what we find.
62	Solicitation Section L,	page 5	Resumes & Letter of Intent	Can the government please clarify where the Letters of Intent should be included in the proposal submission. For example, should they be provided in the same file with the resumes or in a separate attachment? Request the Government specify the naming convention for this file.	Letters of intent usually come in with the supporting documentation for the key personnel.
63	PWS	5.3	Reference DI-SAFT-80102B	A revision to the referenced CDRL, DI-SAFT-80102C was effective 06-2015. Will the revised DID be required?	If there is no substantial change to the CDRL content than no, it can remain and will be updated with the award.
64	A007_Exhibit_A_A001_CDRL_DI-MGT-80277_Monthly_Status_Report_A001.pdf	Block 16	Per the DD 1423, all contractor employees, to include subcontractor employees, requiring access to government installations, facilities and controlled access areas shall complete AT Level 1 training within 30 calendar days after contract start.	Does "requiring access" include the employees who may "visit" the Government installation occasionally, such as in an occasional TDY status, or is this requirement intended for on-site contractor employees?	As it states, ALL employees or subcontracted who will access (visit) a Government installation.
65	Attachment 0006 Page 8-12	Attachment 0006 (SECTION L) PROPOSAL SUBMISSION Page 8-12	Section L, page 2 specifies a 50-page limit for the Technical response. Section L, Page 4, Paragraph 3 requires the compliance matrix be included in the 50-page limit (as does the Government response to previous question 35). Section M, page 1 states that Technical Factor is significantly more important than the Past Performance factor, and Past performance factor is slightly more important than the cost factor. Technical and Past Performance combined are significantly more important than Cost.	Given the complexity and diversity of the subject matter in the PWS, the requirement to include the Compliance Matrix in the Technical response 50 page limit, and the relative importance of the Technical Volume in the evaluation criteria, we respectfully request an additional 20 pages be added to the Technical Response page limit for a total of 70 in order to adequately address all of the requirements and provide a comprehensive Compliance Matrix.	The government believes the 50 page limit is appropriate for this effort.
66	Attachment 0006 Pg. 10	Attachment 0006 (SECTION L) PROPOSAL SUBMISSION	The response to Question 29 directs that a BOE or quotes be provided for materials. Without a Bill Of Materials (BOM) or sample tasks to bid against, there is no basis for a BOE or quotes. The guidance in Section L (page 10) states that material costs and travel are a plug numbers for evaluation purposes. Also, the Government has emphasized in its response to previous Q&A question 47 that no deviations (to include assumptions, terms, conditions, caveats or conditions based on the question) to the RFP submitted by an offeror will be accepted.	Request that the requirement for a BOE or quotes to rationalize the material plug numbers be removed, or, provide a detailed Bill Of Materials and detailed scenario(s) for how those materials and travel would be utilized.	Required is an estimate regardless of the fact that it's a plug number, it doesn’t have to be exact, it is only an estimate. It is the responsibility of the contractor to understand what materials they require to perform in support of the contractor. Quotes from potential suppliers can be provided to fulfill this. Information for travel is already provided.
67	Section L, Page 5		Key personnel "supporting documentation"	To ensure compliance, please clarify exactly what “supporting documentation”, in addition to the resumes, is required, or confirm that is referring solely to the Letters of Intent.	In addition to the resumes, letters of intent from the key personnel would also be included as supporting documentation. The requirements for supporting documentation are provided in SectionL.
68	Section L, Page 7	Organizational Conflicts of Interest (OCI)	Reference to the proposed utilization of personnel who have previously worked for the Government.	1. Does the guidance refer to previous Government employment at any time, or within a particular time frame? 2. What is required in the event that the former Government employee did not receive, or due to the passage of time, no longer has, a letter of separation from the Government identifying their employment restrictions? 3. Please clarify what is intended by the term “letter of separation”. Is that referring to a Post-Government Employment Ethics Opinion or some other document?	This refers to employment at any time. A letter of separation is given to every employee leaving Federal Service. There is generally a probation period for Federal Employees with regard to being prohibited to work on Federal programs. The letter of separation will provide the Government with the date of separation, providing us with the amount of time fro the probationary period.
69	PWS Section 1.5.1, Section L Page 7 (Sub-Factor 3 - Quality Assurance Surveillance Plan (QASP)	PWS Section 1.5.1 and 1.5.2, Section L Page 7 (Sub-Factor 3 - Quality Assurance Surveillance Plan (QASP)	PWS 1.5.1 states that “The QCP shall be submitted with the propos[al]. PWS 1.5.2 states that "the QASP shall be submitted with the proposal as it is part of the evaluation factor."	1. Please verify the requirement for the submission of a Quality Assurance Surveillance Plan (QASP) with the offerors’ proposals since Solicitation Section L requires the submission of a Quality Assurance Surveillance Plan rather than a QCP. 2. If the Government requires both a QASP and a QCP submission with the proposal, request specific guidance for QCP submission and file naming convention be provided.	The QCP is a requirement as per is stated in the PWS, however is not part of the evaluation factors, however the QASP is part of the evaluation factors, therefore we have provided submission instructions for the QASP, there is no need for submission instructions for the QCP, it is part of the PWS requirements and should be submitted as such.
70	Section L, Page 10, previous Q&A question 28 Government response	G&A	Government response: “G&A is omitted travel, materials. Materials overhead is generally included in Materials”.	It is respectfully requested that the Government clarify its response to Question and Answer #28. That response appears to be inconsistent with the following Solicitation provisions: Solicitation Section L, page 10, only precludes the addition of fee to the offeror’s proposed materials, travel, and Other Direct Costs (ODCs). (See also the “Note” on page 15 which states that “Fixed Fee/Profit and any sort of fee is not allowable for Travel costs, Material Costs, and ODCs on this effort”.) The “Materials, Travel and ODC CLIN Worksheet Sample” on page 13 specifically includes blocks for the inclusion of material handling charges and G&A. On page 14, paragraph iii. states that “[m]aterial and applicable indirect costs will be paid on a Cost reimbursable basis and are not subject to fixed fee or any sort of fee”. On page 14, paragraph iv. states that “[t]his amount is exclusive of all applicable loadings. Travel and applicable indirect costs will be paid on a Cost reimbursable basis and are not subject to fixed fee or any sort of fee”. On page 14, paragraph v. states that “[t]he Offeror shall apply any applicable indirect costs to the ODCs as it deems suitable."

G&A is an applicable indirect cost and is included in our approved DCAA disclosure, which is typical of DCAA approved accounting systems.	Those cost elements that are indicated as no fee shall be proposed as cost reimburseabel - and no fee attached, included or proposed on them.
	71	Solicitation Attachment 2, Level Of Effort. Section L. Government response to previous question 47. Also, APG's February 2017 Advanced Planning Brief to Industry Page 19 "Power Opportunity"	Section L, Volume II - Cost/Price instructions. APG's February 2017 Advanced Planning Brief to Industry.	At APG’s February 2017 APBI, the estimated value for this acquisition was identified as between $50M to $100M. Nevertheless, the total value of the directed Level of Effort (LOE) set forth in Attachment 0002, combined with the directed material and travel costs, fails to even approach the lower end of that range.

The Government emphasized in its response to previous question 47 that no deviations (to include assumptions, terms, conditions or caveats) to the RFP submitted by an offeror will be accepted. Request the Government verify whether the estimated Level of Effort set forth in Attachment 0002 (which is essentially equal for all five contract years), combined with the directed material and travel costs from Section L, upon which the offerors must base their proposals, and which, presumably, will determine the ceiling for this acquisition, is sufficiently robust to enable the Government to satisfy its current requirements, as well as all of its future requirements, throughout the five-year period of performance.

Since the mandated Level of Effort set forth in Attachment 0002 is identified as an estimate, and to ensure that the contract ceiling is not reached prematurely, thereby precluding the timely execution of critical tasks and necessitating an earlier than planned re-procurement, if the Government determines that the Level of Effort identified in Attachment 0002 may fall short of existing and planned requirements, it is respectfully requested that the directed Level of Effort, along with the corresponding material and travel cost numbers, be increased to align with the Government estimate provided at the APBI if in fact that is still correct.	The LOE and plug number will stay the same and will not be increased.
	72	Section L, Page 1 and 2 of 22	Page 1 and 2 of 22	There is no address provided for Hard Copy proposal submission	Please provide a physical address and POC (to include a telephone number for coordination) for Hard Copy proposal submission	No hard copy submissions are being accepted. Proposals are to be submitted through Safe Site.
	73	Section L page 18 of 22	Volume III Past Performance	The Section L Volume 3 requirements limit past performance citations to be 3 pages in length. Using tables with 8 point font, the Part I Contract Description information alone takes up 1 page, leaving only 2 pages to address the relevancy of contract work against the major technical PWS areas. In many cases citations are relevant to 6 or more of these PWS areas, and 2 pages are not adequate to document this level of detail and show significant relevancy, which is scored.	Will the Government consider increasing the page count from 3 pages to 4 pages per citation, to adequately demonstrate this relevancy.	Yes, the Government will allow increasing the page count from 3 to 4 pages per citation.
	74	Section L pagse 18, 19 and 20 of 22	Volume III Past Performance	From an organization perspective, to make Past Performance easy to read, it is assumed that each PP citation is standalone within its unique page count, i.e. each one having Sections 1 (Contract Description), 2 (Performance), 3 (Subcontracts), and 4 (New Corporate Entities) per the Section L requirements. The guidance in section L is somewhat confusing in that it describes bundling all Contract descriptions (for all contracts) in section 1, Performance (for all contracts) in section 2, Subcontracts (for all contracts) in section 3 and New Corporate Entities (for all contracts) in section 4. This also makes page count complliance somewhat ambiguous. We believe that having each contract citation standing on its own with all four sections will make the document significantly easier to read/score.	Please provide guidance that each PP citation within Volume III is stand-alone inclusive of Sections 1-4, or that the Volume III bundles information for all contracts cited in each section.	Yes, each Past Performance citation is standalone within its unique page count.

File details come from the government source that posted it.