0001-Amendment_W81XWH-17-R-0010.docx

W81XWH-17-R-0010

SECTION SF 30 BLOCK 14 CONTINUATION PAGE

SUMMARY OF CHANGES

SECTION SF 30 - BLOCK 14 CONTINUATION PAGE

The following have been added by full text:

QUESTIONS/ANSWERS

1. Please confirm that the Government expects that all work will be performed off-site at the Contractor’s location.

Gov’t Response: Yes. However, work may also involve the proposed site of implementation.

1. Pg. 6 states: “Provide Approval for Access to Military Treatment Facility.” Will the Government provide assistance selecting Medical Treatment Facilities (MTFs) to participate in the research study and obtaining clinic leadership approval to participate; or does the Government expect the Offeror to be primarily responsible for identifying sites and coordinating leadership approval for participation?

Gov’t Response: Contractors are encouraged to identify potential sites for the rollout and include any letters of support and ongoing collaborations in proposal, as well as, resources to accommodate alternate sites if recommended.

1. Will the participating Medical Treatment Facilities represent all services, or will the Government request Army Medical Treatment Facilities exclusively?

Gov’t Response: Participating MTFs will represent all Services.

1. Pg. 7 of the RFP states: “Describe how the background and expertise of the Principal Investigator(s) PI(s) and other key personnel demonstrate their ability to perform…” however no additional key personnel are requested in the RFP. Will the Government please clarify whether Key Personnel are required in this proposal beyond the PI, and if so, what roles the positions would fill?

Gov’t Response: Additional Key Personnel would include investigators involved in the study e.g., statistician, therapist if applicable etc.

1. Can the Government confirm that the IRB application will be submitted through a Government IRB Office (e.g., Walter Reed Army Institute of Research IRB)? If the expectation is that the Contractor use an external Contractor selected IRB Office, can the Government confirm that the costs associated with the external IRB process can be billed as a direct cost?

Gov’t Response: Since the study would be rolled out at MTFs, the IRB approval may be required from the Government IRB office as well as contractor’s institution, as applicable. Billing for external IRB will apply (as proposed) as direct cost, if applicable.

1. Can the Government confirm that the providers at the MTFs will be the ones to deliver clinical intervention and/or evidence-based practice (rather than the Offeror’s team)?

Gov’t Response: Yes, providers at the MTFs will deliver the selected clinical intervention. If applicable, training and data collection may be provided by the offeror’s team.

1. Can the Government confirm that the Government will select the exact program/practice/technology that will be the topic focus of the D&I study?

Gov’t Response: Yes.

1. What role/responsibilities, if any, will the Government have in the development and execution of the research protocol?

Gov’t Response: The Government will provide collaborative consultation on the design and approach to help maximize the feasibility and research impact. The Government will provide guidance on selection of site(s) as well as assist in gaining support from the leadership for the implementation effort. Government will function in the role of a liaison between the Contractor and the MTF(s) as applicable.

1. Are proposals based on Veterans area allowable in response to this RFP?

Gov’t Response: Please reference solicitation Section 2.1.7.3 in the Statement of Objectives (SOO).

1. As the field element is part of the U.S. Army Research Laboratory, would that exclude them from eligibility to submit a response for those announcements? Or are they open to all?

Gov’t Response: Yes. This announcement is for extramural research.

1. Will the Government consider an assistance agreement for this effort?

Gov’t Response: No

1. Is our proposal suitable for this type of work?

Gov’t Response: Please reference solicitation Section L, Instructions, Conditions and Notices to Bidders.

1. Could you please provide the incumbent contract number? If not, is this a new requirement?

Gov’t Response: This is a new requirement.

1. Is there a provision and deadline for pre-application in order to assess whether a potential application has merit?

Gov’t Response: This solicitation does not request pre-applications. Please reference response to Question 12.

1. Is it open for applicants from non-military academic institution? Does the study need to be done in active military population or can be expanded to veteran or civilian?

Gov’t Response: Yes. Please reference response to Question 2 and Question 10.

1. Is the contractor expected to recruit and coordinate ongoing clinical trials to participate in the D&I framework OR is the contractor to propose new clinical trial studies?

Gov’t Response: The contractor is to propose new clinical trials.

1. The RFP states that the Joint DoD Mental Health Working Group will identify the specific PTSD intervention that will be the focus of this study within 30 days of the award. Please clarify whether the contractor is then expected to develop new study sites where the Dissemination & Implementation Science model will be implemented and evaluated or whether the government will identify existing study sites, which may be conducting clinical trials, for the implementation and evaluation of the proposed model.

Gov’t Response: While proposers are encouraged to identify potential sites for the rollout in the proposal, flexibility to accommodate alternate sites, if recommended by the POCs, is preferred. Please reference response to Question 8.

1. Please clarify whether the study sites are considered new clinical trials that must meet the DoD regulatory review requirements of this type of study.

Gov’t Response: Please reference response to Question 16.

1. How many study sites does the government recommend be included in the overall Dissemination & Implementation Science study?

Gov’t Response: 2-3

1. Page 6 of 82, Section 2.1.3, Provide Letters of Organizational Support requires:” …a letter (of letters, if applicable), signed by the Department Chair or appropriate organization official, confirming the laboratory space, equipment, and other resources available for the project.” Please clarify what types of organizations this refers to and what their intended function is in the study design. Is this letter to be provided after contract award?

Gov’t Response: Organizational support indicates acknowledgement and approval of the official (MTF/clinic Director—see response to question #22) where the study is intended to be rolled out and or support from the proposers organization as applicable. Providing the letter of support prior to award is encouraged, but not necessarily required.

1. Page 6 of 82, Section 2.1.4, Provide Letters of Collaboration (if applicable) requires: “…a signed letter from each collaborating individual or organization that will demonstrate that the PI has the support or resources necessary for the proposed work.” Please clarify what types of organizations this refers to and what their intended function is in the study design. Is this letter to be provided after contract award?

Gov’t Response: Please reference response to Question 21. This requirement might also be considered to include letters of support/collaboration endorsement from experts associated with a particular evidence-based interventions that might be selected for implementation. For this announcement we have previously indicated the likely intervention candidates will be cognitive behavioral treatment approaches to include either Prolonged Exposure Therapy or Cognitive Processing Therapy.

1. Page 6 of 82, Section 2.1.5, Provide approval for Access to Military treatment Facilities, Populations, and Resources requires: “A letter of support, signed by the lowest-ranking person with approval authority, should be included for studies involving active duty military, military treatment facilities, military-controlled study materials, and databases.” Is this letter to be provided after contract award?

Gov’t Response: Please reference response to Question 2 and Question 8.

1. Page 9 or 82, Section 2.1.22, refers to clinical trial monitoring responsibilities. Does this section of the SOO apply to the overall Dissemination & Implementation?

Gov’t Response: Yes.

1. Should “OCI Volume/OCI” be Volume VI/Section II rather than Section V/ Section II?

Gov’t Response: Yes. This section is revised via this amendment.

1. Please verify in Section L, table 1 shows that Volume I has two sections and that OCI should be included in Volume VI.

Gov’t Response: Please reference response to Question 24.

1. Is a Record of Environmental Compliance (REC) required as part of proposals?

Gov’t Response: No. This section is removed via this amendment.

1. Will the Government consider an extension to proposal deadline?

Gov’t Response: Yes, proposal due date is revised to 16 June 2017 at 1:00PM Eastern Time.

SECTION A - SOLICITATION/CONTRACT FORM

The required response date/time has changed from 12-Jun-2017 10:00 AM to 16-Jun-2017 01:00 PM.

SECTION F - DELIVERIES OR PERFORMANCE

The following have been modified:

DELIVERABLES

F.1.0 Delivery Schedule Abbreviations

The following abbreviations are used in the delivery/deliverable schedule:

F.2.0. Deliverable/Delivery Schedule

A summary of deliverables follows. The list of deliverables serves as a minimum set of contractor deliverables required to meet the intent of Section C and other contract management deliverables. Copies are to be provided to the Government officials indicated in electronic file (E).

CS

CS

(CDRL A001)

Publications instruction in Section C governs Reports, Manuscripts, and Public releases with a stipulation restricting unapproved publication.

SECTION L - INSTRUCTIONS, CONDITIONS AND NOTICES TO BIDDERS

The following have been modified:

SECTION L

1. General Instructions

This section provides general guidance for preparation of proposals as well as specific instructions on the format and content of the proposal. The Offeror’s proposal must include all data and information requested and must be submitted in accordance with these instructions.

The proposal shall be compliant with requirements as stated in the Government’s Statement of Objectives (SOO). This acquisition is a full and open (UNRESTRICTED) procurement under NAICS 541720. The Offeror shall include evidence (e.g., statement of intent to enter into a teaming agreement) of subcontractor relationships. Non-conformance with these instructions may result in an unfavorable proposal evaluation. Any Offeror who submits an incomplete package may be rejected and eliminated from further competition.

1.1.1. The proposal shall be clear, concise, and shall include sufficient detail for effective evaluation and for substantiating the validity of stated claims. The proposal should not simply rephrase or restate the Government’s requirements, but rather shall provide convincing rationale to address how the Offeror intends to meet these requirements. The Offeror shall assume that the Government has no prior knowledge of the Offeror’s facilities and experience and will base its evaluation on the information presented in the Offeror’s proposal.

1.1.2. Elaborate brochures or documentation, binding, detailed art work, or other embellishments are unnecessary and not desired.

1.1.3. The proposal acceptance period (120 days, minimum) after the solicitation closing date (block 9 on Standard Form 33) shall be specified in block 12 of the Standard Form 33.

1.1.4. Questions regarding this Request for Proposal (RFP) are due no later than 2:00 PM Eastern Time (ET) on 03 May 2017 and shall be submitted by email to the Contract Specialist, Jennifer E. Tait at jennifer.e.tait.civ@mail.mil. The Government will not address questions received after this time and date. Offerors shall submit one set of questions only; multiple emails shall not be accepted. An amendment to the solicitation will respond to all questions submitted within the solicitation question period. Distribution shall be through www.fbo.gov. Telephonic questions will not be accepted.

PROPOSAL DUE DATE: No Later Than: 16 June 2017 at 1:00 PM Eastern Time.

1.1.5. If an Offeror believes that the requirements in these instructions contain an error, omission, or are otherwise unsound; the Offeror shall immediately notify the Contract Specialist listed above in writing with supporting rationale. The Government reserves the right to award this effort based on the initial proposal, as received, without discussion.

1.1.6. Any request for “Change Pages” by the Government shall be submitted by the Offeror using highlighted text to identify changes made from the original proposal with a revision date affixed to the subject page.

1.1.7. In accordance with Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) Subpart 4.8 (Government Contract Files), the Government will retain one copy of all unsuccessful proposals.

1.1.8. The Government may conduct a pre-award survey during the Government evaluation period (prior to contract award). The pre-award survey may examine the Offeror’s record of integrity and business ethics, data management system, financial capability, and accounting systems.

2.1. Organization of Proposals, Number of Copies, Page Limits

2.2. General

The Offeror shall prepare the proposal as set forth in the Proposal Organization table below (Table 1). The titles and contents of the volumes shall be as defined in this table, all of which shall be within the required page limits as specified in Table 1. There should be six (6) separate and distinct volumes: Volume I is the Documentation Volume; Volume II is the Technical Volume; Volume III is the Past Performance Volume; Volume IV is the Small Business Participation/Subcontracting Plan Volume; Volume V is the Cost Volume; and Volume VI is the Organizational Conflict of Interest Volume. These are six (6) separate volumes. Do not include cost information in the Technical, Past Performance, or Organization Conflict of Interest (OCI) Volumes. The Offeror shall clearly mark one (1) electronic copy of each volume as “Original” and four (4) additional electronic copies shall be clearly marked as “Copy”.

Table 1: Proposal Organization

Resumes/CV’s will not count against page limit.

2.3. Submission Copies

Each volume shall be submitted in five electronic copies (including the “Original” copy described above) on a separate CD-ROM or DVD-ROM in PDF format, with the exception that the Cost Volume be submitted as a “Read Only” Microsoft Excel file, showing all formulas and links, including applicable subcontractor costs. In addition, 2 (two) hard copies of the complete proposal shall be provided to the Government Point of Contact (POC).

2.4. Electronic Submission

Each electronic submission shall be submitted on separate CD/DVD-ROMs in PDF format, with the exception that the Cost Volume shall be submitted as a “Read Only” Microsoft Excel file.

The electronic submission shall be compatible with Microsoft Windows XP, Microsoft Excel 2007, Microsoft Word 2007, Microsoft Project 2007, and Adobe Acrobat Reader 8.0. For the Integrated Master Schedule (IMS), in addition to a high level presentation in PDF format as part of the Program Management Section submission, the Offeror shall submit an electronic copy with schedule data in “Read Only” format that shows all formulas and links. The files shall be virus and malware free. All passwords shall be removed.

2.5. Volume Content

Each volume shall be written on a stand-alone basis. Information required for proposal evaluation which is not found in its designated volume or section will be assumed to have been omitted from the proposal. Each volume shall contain a cover page with identifying RFP number, Offeror name and mailing address, CAGE Code, Business Manager’s name, and contact information. Also to be included in each volume is an index and a glossary of abbreviations or acronyms used. Cover pages and index/glossary will not be counted against page limitations.

The information in each volume should be specific and complete. Legibility, clarity, and coherence are very important. Your responses will be evaluated against the factors defined in Section M, Evaluation Factors for Award (exception for Volume VI, OCI, which is a stand-alone review and is not considered to be part of an Offeror’s technical proposal). Using the instructions provided below, provide as specifically as possible, the actual methodology you would use for accomplishing/ satisfying the requirement. All of the information specified in the solicitation is mandatory. By your proposal submission, you are representing that your firm will be responsible for meeting the requirements specified in the solicitation. It is not necessary or desirable for you to tell us so in your proposal. Do not merely reiterate the objectives or reformulate the requirements specified in the solicitation.

2.6. Cost Information

All cost information shall be addressed ONLY in the Cost Volume. Do not address cost in the Technical, Past Performance of OCI Volumes. Cost trade-off information, work hour estimates, and material kinds and quantities may be used in other sections only as appropriate for presenting rationale for alternatives or design and trade-off decisions.

2.7. Page Limitation

Page limitations shall be treated as maximums. If exceeded, the excess pages will not be read or considered in the evaluation of the proposal. Page limitations exclude Curriculum Vitae and bibliographic data for key personnel.

2.8. Page Size and Format

A page is defined as each face of a sheet of paper containing information. When both sides of a sheet display printed material, it shall be counted as two (2) pages. Page size shall be 8.5 x 11 inches, not including foldouts. Pages shall be single spaced. Except for the reproduced sections of the solicitation document, the text size shall be no less than Times New Roman font 12 pitch. Tracking, kerning, and leading values shall not be changed from the default values of the word processing or page layout software. Use at least 1 inch margins on the top and bottom and ¾-inch side margins.

Pages shall be numbered sequentially by volume. These page format restrictions shall apply to electronic proposals.

2.9. Tables, Charts, Graphs, and Figures

Legible tables, charts, graphs, and figures shall be used wherever practical to depict organizations, systems and layout, implementation schedules, plans, etc. These displays shall be uncomplicated, legible, and shall not exceed 11 x 17 inches in size. Exhibits, graphics, charts, captions, etc., shall be no smaller than 10 pitch. Foldout pages shall fold entirely within the volume, and count as a single page. Foldout pages may only be used for large tables, charts, graphs, diagrams and schematics, not for pages of text. For tables, charts, graphs and figures, the text shall be no smaller than 10 point. These limitations shall apply to electronic proposals.

2.10. Cross-Referencing

To the greatest extent possible, each section of the proposal shall be written on a standalone basis, so that its content may be evaluated with a minimum of cross-referencing to other sections of the proposal. Information required for proposal evaluation, which is not found in its designated section, will be assumed to have been omitted from the proposal.

2.11. Indexing

Each volume shall contain a more detailed table of contents to delineate the subparagraphs within that volume. Tab indexing shall be used to identify sections. Indices do not count against the page limitations for their respective volumes.

2.12. Glossary of Abbreviations and Acronyms

Each volume shall contain a glossary of all abbreviations and acronyms used, and with an explanation for each. Glossaries do not count against the page limitations.

2.13. Distribution

The “original” electronic copy and four (4) additional copies, as well as, the five (5) hard copies shall be addressed to the Contract Specialist and either mailed or hand carried to: Ms. Jennifer Tait, Contract Specialist, U.S. Army Medical Research Acquisition Activity, 820 Chandler Street, Fort Detrick, MD 21702.

3.0 VOLUME I/SECTION I – DOCUMENTATION VOLUME/ TABLE OF CONTENTS (TOC)

3.1 RESERVED.

3.2 Table Of Contents (TOC)

The Offeror shall include TOC of the volume.

3.3 VOLUME I/SECTION II –DOCUMENTATION VOLUME/EXECUTED REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL (RFP) DOCUMENTS The Offeror shall submit a fully executed copy of the RFP. This submission shall be signed/dated and all clauses requiring a “fill-in” shall be completed. Section B, Supply or Services and Prices, shall be completed with the requested cost or price.

4.0 VOLUME II/SECTION I –TECHNICAL VOLUME/COVER LETTER-EXSUM/TOC

The Technical Section shall not contain any reference to cost or price; however, information concerning labor hours and categories, Consultant services, travel requirements, materials and equipment needed, and, if applicable, subcontractor(s) shall be contained in the Technical Volume in sufficient detail so that the Government may adequately evaluate the Offeror’s understanding of the requirements.

4.1 COVER LETTER –EXSUM

In the Cover Letter-EXSUM, the Offeror shall provide a concise narrative summary of the Technical proposal, to include addressing the significant risks, identifying any schedule incentives and highlighting any key or unique features, excluding cost/price. The salient features should tie in with Section M, Evaluation Factors. Any summary material presented here shall not be considered as meeting the requirements for any portions of other volumes of the proposal.

4.2 Table Of Contents (TOC)

4.3 VOLUME II/SECTION II- Factor 1: Scientific and Technical Approach

The Offeror’s scientific and technical approach shall demonstrate a clear understanding of all the tasks to be performed, as related to the Statement of Objectives. The Offeror’s approach shall demonstrate technical soundness, scientific and technical merit, innovation, feasibility of the aims, objectives, milestones, and progress toward topic or subtopic solution. The Offeror’s approach shall clearly articulate an understanding of the problems and solutions. The Offeror’s approach shall clearly addresses potential barriers and challenges, as well as, methods for overcoming and addressing these barriers and challenges.

The Offeror’s approach shall demonstrate a level of detail, which clearly addresses core implementation science issues and methods to assess specific military factors (e.g., intervention feasibility, practitioner characteristics, Service member, service delivery, organizational and systems characteristics) that may either limit or facilitate implementation. The Offeror’s scientific and technical approach shall describe a reasonable plan for continually assessing and evaluating the impact of the proposed approach that is sustainable and realistic within the military context, infrastructure, and proposed setting.

The Offeror’s scientific and technical approach shall demonstrate how it utilizes implementation science principles to achieve the necessary technical tasks for the chosen topic. The Offeror’s approach shall demonstrate how it accelerates translation and adoption of end-user focused, evidence-based interventions and practices to reduce variations in clinical practice, and ensures best quality of care and services for Service members and their Families.

The Offeror’ s technical approach shall demonstrate how it provides the necessary organizational support to access the appropriate military treatment facilities, populations and resources necessary to accomplish the technical tasks.

4.4 VOLUME II/SECTION III- Factor 2: Project Management and Statement of Work/Quality Management Plan The Offeror’s project management plan shall provide sufficient detail, to ascertain the associated risks pertaining to the management and integration of the various aspects of the required work.

The Offeror’s project management plan shall identify significant milestones, decision points, and an effective process that will be used to evaluate program status and progress.

The Offeror’s project management plan shall include effective mechanisms for interactions/communications between Project Management and the Government and demonstrate past and/or ongoing experience in working with the Military Health System.

The Offeror’s project management plan shall describe effective management and interface with key subcontractors, to include how the Offeror will ensure subcontractors meet cost, schedule, and performance requirements.

The Offeror’s Statement of Work (SOW) shall demonstrate how it meets the requirements stated in the Statement of Objectives and the requirements of the RFP.

The Offeror’s SOW shall be wrote as a standalone document, which if accepted by the Government, will be incorporated into and become a material part of the contract at time of award.

The Offeror’s project management plan shall demonstrate flexibility in its ability to accommodate the specific government sponsor identified intervention/practice that will be implemented.

The Offeror project management plan shall address any intellectual property or data rights.

The Offeror’s Quality Management Plan (QMP) shall provide a detailed approach to establishing a Quality Assurance and Quality Control (QA/QC) management system, and assuring satisfactory QA/QC management by significant subcontractors.

4.5 VOLUME II/SECTION IV -Factor 3: Experience

The Offeror’s proposal shall provide how the proposed team reflects relevant expertise, experience, and project commitment that supports the completion of the proposal’s objectives. The CVs and resumes shall demonstrate relevant education, background, recent relevant experience, and specific technical accomplishments.

The Offeror shall provide the approximate percentage of time each Key Personnel will be available for this project.

The Offeror shall provide biographical sketches and/or resumes of key subcontractor personnel and consultants that demonstrate relevant experience.

The Offeror shall demonstrate an effective methodology to replace, recruit, and maintain key personnel.

4.6 VOLUME III/SECTION I –PAST PERFORMANCE VOLUME/TOC

4.6.1 RESERVED.

4.6.2 Table Of Contents (TOC)

The Offeror shall include TOC of the volume.

4.6.3 VOLUME III/ SECTION II- Factor 4: Past Performance

The Offeror shall list ongoing and previous Government contracts held during the past three years, which are relevant and demonstrate ability to perform the effort required in the SOO, including:

• Managing the conduct of clinical trials;

• Complying with regulations and guidelines; and

• Ability to access military treatment facilities, populations and resources.

In addition, any and all contracts terminated for cause, in whole or in part, during the past five (5) years, to include those currently in the process of such termination are considered relevant and the offeror shall provide past performance information for those contracts. The number of past performance references shall be limited to no more than five (5) for the prime contractor and no more than three (3) for each subcontractor. The Offeror shall explain the relevance of previous efforts with respect to the effort described in this RFP.

The Past Performance Evaluation Questionnaire Form shall be forwarded by the Offeror to no more than five (5) customers for the prime contractor and three (3) customers for each subcontractor, within the last three (3) years, for performance that is identical, similar or related to the performance addressed in this RFP. Completed past performance questionnaires shall be submitted with Offeror’s proposal by the submission deadline established in paragraph L.1.1.4.

4.7 VOLUME IV/SECTION I -Factor 5: Small Business Participation/Subcontracting Plan All Offerors are required to complete a Small Business Participation Proposal. Offerors should propose the level of participation of small businesses (as a small business prime and/or small business subcontractors) in the performance of the acquisition relative to the following small business objectives/goals. The Department of Defense (DOD) has established small business goals as an assistance to assure small business receives a fair proportion of DOD awards. The goals for this procurement are as follows:

Small Business :{34.0%} of the total *contract value;

Small Disadvantaged Business: {5.0%} of the total contract value;

Woman-Owned Small Business: {5.0%} of the total contract value;

Historically Underutilized Business Zone (HUBZone) Small Business: {3.0%} of the total contract value;

Service Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business: {3.0 %} of the total contract value.

(Note, for example, that a participation plan that reflects {4.0%} of the contract value for Woman-Owned Small Business would also count towards the overall Small Business Goal).

*The Government recognizes that these goals are stated as a percentage of the total contract value for the small business participation plan; whereas, the goals included in the subcontracting plan (FAR Clause 52.219-9) are stated in terms of a percentage of total subcontract dollars.

L.4.7.1. Check the applicable size and categories for the PRIME offeror only -- Check all applicable boxes:

{ } Small Business Prime; also categorized as a { } Small Disadvantaged Business (SDB) { } Woman-Owned Small Business (WOSB) { } Historically Underutilized Zone (HUB Zone) Small Business { } Veteran Owned Small Business (VOSB) { } Service Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business (SDVOSB)

L.4.7.2. Submit the total combined percentage of work to be performed by both large and small businesses (include the percentage of work to be performed both by Prime and Subcontractors):

Example: If Prime proposes a price of $1,000,000 (including all options), and small business(es) will provide $250,000 in services/supplies as a prime or subcontractor, the % planned for small businesses is 25%; and 75% for large business equaling 100%.

L.4.7.3. Please indicate the total percentage of participation to be performed by each type of subcategory small business. The percentage of work performed by Small Businesses that qualify in multiple small business categories may be counted in each category:

Example: Victory Prop Mgt (WOSB and SDVOSB) performing 2%; and Williams Group (SDB, HubZ and WOSB) performing 3%. Results equate to: SDB 3%; HubZone 3%; WOSB 5%; SDVOSB 2%; VOSB 2%;). SDVOSBs are also VOSBs automatically; however VOSBs are not automatically SDVOSBs.

L.4.7.4. List principle supplies/services to be performed by Small Businesses:

Example: If a Small Business qualifies also as a WOSB and a SDVOSB, and you can add them to each category below in which they qualify.

Name of Company Identify Type of Service/Supply

Small Business (SB):

Small Disadvantaged Business (SDB):

Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB):

Historically Underutilized Business Zone (HUB Zone):

Veteran Owned Small Business (VOSB):

Service Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business (SDVO):

Historically Black Colleges and Universities and Minority Institutions (HBCU/MI):

L.4.7.5. Describe the extent of commitment to use small businesses (for example, what types of commitments if any are in place for this specific acquisition either – small business prime, written contract, verbal, enforceable, non-enforceable, joint venturing, mentor-protégé, etc.)

L.4.7.6 Small Business Subcontracting Plan: If applicable (for large business concern Offerors under the assigned NAICS code herein), the offeror shall submit a subcontracting plan in accordance with FAR Clause 52.219-9 and DFARS Clause 252.219-7003 (for reference see FAR 19.704 and DFARS 219-704). The negotiation of a subcontracting plan shall not be considered discussions or a reopening of Solicitation W81XWH-17-R-0044. The subcontracting plan requirement is not applicable to small business concerns qualified as such under the NAICS code assigned to this solicitation. Master subcontracting plans can be included as an appendix to the subcontracting plan and will not count towards the page count.

5.0 VOLUME V/SECTION 1- Factor 6: Cost/Price

Compliance with these instructions is mandatory and failure to comply may result in rejection of your proposal. Note that unrealistically low or high proposed costs or prices, initially or subsequently, may be grounds for eliminating a proposal from competition, either on the basis that the Offeror does not understand the requirement or has made an unrealistic proposal. The offers should be sufficiently detailed to demonstrate their reasonableness.

The Cost Proposal shall be an integrated and comprehensive estimate with descriptions of estimating techniques and allocation methods that correlate in sufficient depth with the SOW and CLINs when applicable. Estimating technique(s) used to create the proposal shall be clearly identified. When responding to the Cost/Price Volume requirements in the solicitation, the Offeror and associated subcontractors may use any generally accepted estimating technique, including contemporary estimating methods, commercially available parametric models, in-house developed parametric cost models, etc., to develop their estimates.

Failure to submit all information requested in the summary spreadsheet format below may result in rejection of your proposal.

The Cost Proposal shall utilize a Microsoft Excel compatible spreadsheet for submission of cost or pricing information in “Read Only” format that shows all formulas, calculations, and links for review.

The Cost Proposal shall show proposed dollar value for each of the CLINs for all years, and for the entire period of performance of the effort proposed.

The proposal should clearly and thoroughly document the rationale supporting the proposed cost and be compliant with the specified content and format requirements of the solicitation.

Offerors are required to have an acceptable accounting system as defined in DFARS Clause 252.242-7006 'Accounting System Administration' to be eligible for an award. Offeror shall provide evidence that they comply with this requirement; Forward Pricing Rate Agreements, recent and relevant audits by the cognizant Auditing Agency, or other similar evidence shall be accepted. Self-certification or unsubstantiated statements of possessing an acceptable accounting system is insufficient and may render the Offeror's proposal non-responsive. All prime Contractors must comply with FAR 44.201, Consent and advance notification requirements.

5.1 Cost Breakdown

The cost proposal shall include a cost breakdown by government contract year (estimated to begin 01 October 2017) for the entire effort proposed. Shown below is an example of a table Offerors can use (substitute Contract Year 1, 2, etc. for contract year format). Subcontractor efforts shall be reflected separately, but will include at a minimum, the information requested in the spreadsheet below. Totals from detailed spreadsheets should track to summary spreadsheet.

SUMMARY SPREADSHEET

YR 1 YR 2 YR 3 YR 4 TOTAL

Direct Labor Hours Direct Labor Dollars Overhead Subcontractor 1 Subcontractor 2 Consultant Material and Supplies Material Handling Travel Equipment Other Costs SUBTOTAL: Direct Costs G&A Profit/Fee

TOTAL

5.1.1. The Offeror shall address the following cost elements in sufficient detail to demonstrate the reasonableness of the proposed costs:

5.1.1.1. Direct Labor. Provide estimated hours by labor category and proposed contract year. Explain the method used to determine the estimated hours necessary for each effort. Indicate if the proposed loaded rates are based on actual or projected rates for current employees. Indicate the escalation factor used and first month(s) for each Government contract year in which escalation factor is applied. Level of effort activities shall be expressed in man-hours. Define the number of man-hours that equal a man-year. A sample table is shown below. Total labor costs/hours should track to summary spreadsheet. Add columns for additional years as required.

Direct Labor Costs

5.1.1.2. Subcontractor Costs. Provide a complete description of all subcontractor costs. Subcontractor Cost proposals should be in the same format as the prime. Total subcontractor costs should track to summary spreadsheet. A sample table is shown below. Add columns for additional years as required.

Subcontractor Costs by Fiscal Year Subcontractor YR 1 ($) YR 2 ($) YR 3 ($) YR 4 ($) Total

5.1.1.3. Consultants. Justify the requirement for consultation services. List proposed consultants by name, if known. For each consultant, describe: (1) nature of services, (2) fee rate, and (3) total consultant fee and any other allowable related costs (e.g., travel, per diem). Total consultant costs should track to summary spreadsheet.

5.1.1.4. Materials and Supplies. Provide a detailed listing of materials and supplies, quantity, unit cost, and basis of estimate (e.g., vendor quotes, catalog pricing, subcontractor estimates). Competitive historical price information of prior purchases is adequate. For all sole-sourced materials and supplies, provide a consolidated cost summary of individual material quantities being proposed and the basis of estimate. A sample table is shown below. Total materials and supplies costs should track to summary spreadsheet.

Materials and Supplies Contract Year Description Basis of Estimate Quantity Unit Cost Source(s)

5.1.1.5. Travel. Provide the purpose, origin, destination, and duration of travel. Offerors are encouraged to read FAR 31.205-46 regarding allowable travel costs. A sample table is shown below. Total travel costs should track to summary spreadsheet.

Travel Date From/To Purpose # of Persons Airfare Lodging Per Diem Rental Car Total

5.1.1.6. Equipment. Provide a list of all proposed equipment to be purchased in support of the contract. The list shall include equipment description, manufacturer, manufacturer’s address, model and stock number, and estimated unit cost. A sample table is shown below. Total equipment costs should track to summary spreadsheet. Please note that all contractor acquired equipment purchased in accordance with the terms and conditions of any resulting contract will be deemed government property. Provide substantiating cost documents for each piece of proposed equipment.

Equipment Contract Year Description Basis of Estimate Quantity Unit Cost TOTAL

5.1.1.7. Other Costs. List direct costs not included in the above categories (i.e., special tooling, computer services, preservation, and packaging). Provide basis of estimate for each cost.

5.1.1.8. Indirect Costs. Provide current rates for Overhead, Material Handling, General and Administrative (G&A), Facility Capital Cost of Money, and any other indirect costs for all efforts proposed. Provide forward pricing agreements if applicable. If forward pricing agreements are not in place, include historical trend for the last three-year period to assist with evaluating proposed rates.

5.1.1.9. Facilities Capital Cost of Money (FCCM) If FCCM is proposed, the Offeror must submit Form CASB-CMF and show the calculations of the proposed amount (see FAR 31.205-10).

5.2. Defense Contractor Management Agency (DCMA) or Defense Contract Audit Agency (DCAA)

If the Offeror is currently under administration or audit cognizance of the Defense Contract Management Agency (DCMA) or the Defense Contract Audit Agency (DCAA), the name, address, and telephone number of the Government Agency’s Point of Contact shall be furnished. Request a copy of the most recent/current audits, pricing or rate agreements issued by the cognizant agency.

5.3. Estimating System

Provide a description of the estimating system or methods used. Indicate if there has been a Government review or audit of the accounting system. If the Government has reviewed the estimating systems of the Offeror and the proposed subcontractors, provide results of the review/audit (including date of review and contact numbers), or documentation of the results.

5.4. Purchasing System

Provide a summary description of the purchasing system or methods (how sources are selected, what provision is made to ensure quantity and other discounts) used. Identify any deviations from these standard procedures in preparing this cost proposal. Indicate if there has been a Government review or audit of the purchasing system. If the Government has reviewed the purchasing systems of the Offeror and the proposed subcontractors, provide results of the review/audit (including date of review and contact numbers), or documentation of the results.

5.5. Accounting System

Indicate if there has been a Government audit of the accounting system and if so, provide evidence of the accounting systems acceptability, as per DCAAP 7641.90, Section 2-301.1.a. Identify any deviations from these standard procedures in preparing this cost proposal.

5.6. Company Financial Statements

Offerors shall provide copies of their annual financial statements for the last three years.

5.7. Other Information Required

Provide the name, title, and telephone number of the company/division point of contact regarding decisions made with respect to your proposal and who can obligate your company contractually. Also, identify those individuals authorized to negotiate with the Government.

6.0 VOLUME VI/SECTION I – ORGANIZATIONAL CONFLICT OF INTEREST (OCI) VOLUME/ -EXSUM/TOC

6.1 RESERVED.

6.2 Table Of Contents (TOC)

The Offeror shall include TOC of the volume.

6.3 VOLUME VI/SECTION II –ORGANIZATIONAL CONFLICT OF INTEREST (OCI)

The Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) Part 9.5 provides guidance for Contracting Activities with regards to Organizational conflict of Interest. OCI is characterized by a) biased judgment on the part of the contractor or b) unfair competitive advantage in a procurement. The FAR encourages mitigation of a conflict if at all possible. The Contracting Officer has significant discretion as to the acceptability of any mitigation plan offered.

The United States Army Medical Research Materiel Command (MRMC) has categorized its services requirements into three broad categories, as defined below, for purposes of identifying, avoiding or militating against OCI in accordance with FAR Subpart 9.5. These categories are defined as follows:

Category 1: Program and/or Administrative Support: Where services which, by their very nature, give the Contractor access to non-public procurement sensitive data about the contract requirements, other contractors’ proprietary information, or put the contractor in a position to influence the award decision on a contract in which they are participating or otherwise affect their impartiality..

Services would be characterized as having access to Command Wide procurement sensitive information, or work that could likely have an influence over follow-on awards or contracts within subordinate directorates/Commands.

Mitigation strategies may include: avoidance (non-participation), firewalls between existing personnel and new requirement.

Category 2: Program and/or Administrative Support: Services which assist in planning and managing an organization’s activities and programs.

Services would be characterized as having access to only Directorate or Subordinate Command level procurement sensitive information or work that would have little influence on follow-on requirements or requirements of other directorates/Subordinate Commands .

Mitigation Strategies: Within the requirements office – avoidance or firewalls; in other Directorates/Subordinate Commands – acceptable mitigation plan or certification that no OCI (real or apparent) exists.

Category 3: Product Support. Services or end items required to meet the mission requirements of the organization’s activities and programs.

Services can be characterized as having little or no access to procurement sensitive information other than the immediate requirement and little chances of follow-on work that can be influenced by the immediate requirement.

Mitigation Strategies: Contractor can provide a mitigation plan or acceptable certification that no OCI exists.

Contractor’s participation in more than one of these areas may give rise to an unfair competitive advantage resulting from access to advance acquisition planning, source selection sensitive information or proprietary information. Furthermore, Contractor participation in more than one area may give rise to a real or apparent loss of Contractor impartiality and objectivity where its advisory or planning assistance in one area potentially affects its present or future participation in another area.

The purpose of this categorization is to accomplish the following three objectives: (1) to inform prospective Offerors that MRMC presumes that award of a contract or order in the subject category will give rise to real or apparent OCIs with respect to requirements in the other two categories; (2) to assist current Contractors and prospective Offerors in developing their own business strategies regarding participation in MRMC requirements and in identifying and, where possible, avoiding or mitigating against OCIs; and (3) to ensure that all current Contractors and prospective Offerors are afforded the maximum practicable opportunity to compete for all MRMC requirements consistent with the restrictions required under FAR Subpart 9.5 and sound business practices.

For purposes of identifying, avoiding and / or militating against OCIs, MRMC will examine all its services requirements and acquisitions regardless of the type of contract vehicle used.

The work called for under this contract / order has been determined by MRMC to fall within the following OCI category: Category 3: Product Support

6.3.1 OCI Administration and Submission

USAMRMC will administer this clause for purposes of award eligibility as follows:

3.4.1.1 The offeror shall provide a listing of all contracts performed for the USAMRMC and any subordinate Commands in the last three (3) years. A single-category Offeror/Contractor wishing to submit an offer in a different category, or any Offeror/Contractor which now provides or previously has provided support in more than one category, must include the following as part of its offer:

6.3.1.2 Perform a comparative analysis of the potential new work against all current and previous work performed in support of USAMRMC in any category. The comparative analysis must be included in the proposal for the new work, and must include a statement certifying whether the Contractor believes that its performance of the proposed new work would create a real or apparent OCI. If the Contractor believes that no real or perceived OCI will result from an award of the proposed work, no additional action by the Contractor is required, unless the Contracting Officer specifically requests an OCI mitigation Plan.

6.3.1.3 If the Offeror/Contractor believes that a real or apparent OCI may exist as a result of an award, the Contractor shall also submit an OCI Mitigation Plan with its proposal.

6.3.2 Page Limitation

Inclusion of the comparative analysis and OCI Mitigation Plan will not be counted against any offer page limitations otherwise stated in the…