Consolidated Questions n Answers RFP W9124D20R0016.pdf

Compiled Questions for Solicitation W9124D20R0016

Section: Section L, Paragraph: 3.b Page: 104

Question 1: All of the proposal files shall be compressed (zipped) into one file entitled proposal zip using WinZip version 6.2 or later, or as separate uploads in their native format, i.e. doc, xls, ppt, etc., and provided on a CD or DVD. Zip disks are not permitted. Files shall be in read-only format, using PDF files. All price breakdown information to aide in the cost/price evaluation shall be submitted in Microsoft Office Excel Read/Write format and viewable in Microsoft Excel 2007.

The first sentence states files shall be in their native format. The third sentence states files shall be in read-only format, using PDF files [with the exception of the Cost/Price]. Please clarify that PDF files [with exception of Cost/Price excel files] are the required format.

Answer 1: Electronic/email copies will be accepted. Accepting electronic mail (email) submission only (PDF, Word and Excel files [no zip files] as instructed within the RFP. No requirement for hardcopy (binder) and CD submission. Offeror shall e-mail proposal to Karen Keys at karen.e.keys.civ@mail.mil and cc John Haarala at john.p.haarala.civ@mail.mil. Hand carried, United States Postal Services, commercial delivery or fax copies will not be accepted.

a) Self extracting .exe files or .zip files are NOT acceptable. The use of hyperlinks in proposals is prohibited.

b) Electronic copies that are not searchable will not be accepted and the proposal will be rejected as non-responsive.

c) Offeror shall format email proposals as one each attachment as follows: I.

Technical Capability, II. Cost/Price, III. Past Performance and IV Solicitation, Offer and Award Documents and Certification/Representations.

Section: Section L&M, Paragraph: M-C.3.a-a; L-3.c-f.(iii).c, Page: 106

Question 2: The evaluation factor and Section L state that NAICS 624310 will be the basis for past performance relevancy. However, this NAICS code is not the most representative of the actual SFL- TAP task requirements, or the majority of the TAP participants. As an uncommon NAICS for this type of work, could be competition-limiting regarding the number of SDVOSBs that have past performance under that NAICS. We respectfully recommend that the Government reference other NAICS for this type of work, such as 541612 or 541642, as relevant and similar.

Answer 2: No. Requirement shall remain as stated in RFP for same or similar services as compared to the NAICS 624310.

Section: Section L, Paragraph: Section L.3.b, c.(iii), Page: 106

Question 3: The requirement states: “Offerors 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.” Our team has more than 100 recent and relevant past performance citations for similar work.

Given the citation instructions, we cannot report all and stay within page limits. Is it the Government’s intent to receive a sampling of the specified work within the page limits (e.g., five citations each within a 5-page limit)?

Answer 3: Page limit per Past Performance requirement is as follows: 25 pages plus 5 pages for each major subcontractors) For example if offeror has three major subcontractor’s past performance information to submit that shall be up to fifteen additional pages) for a possibility of 40 pages for the past performance volume.

Section: Section L, Paragraph: L-2.b, Page: 102

Question 4: What is the preferred delivery method for the Government? Does the Government prefer a commercial carrier, and which carrier is preferred: FEDEX, UPS, or USPS? Does Fort Knox have any restrictions or considerations for a commercial carrier?

Answer 4: See Section L, 2. Proposal Submission Requirements. The Government has no preferred method of commercial delivery or contractor hand carry delivery.

Reference: Technical Exhibit 9 TAP Pre-Transition Questionnaire Survey Monkey; Technical Exhibit 9A TAP Exit-Transition Questionnaire Survey Monkey; Technical Exhibit 9B TAP Post- Transition Questionnaire Survey Monkey, Section: Entire Survey, Paragraph: All, Page: All

Question 5: Are results of past responses publicly available for generating insights to determine survey effectiveness and usefulness of the data?

Answer 5: No, they are not publicly available.

Reference: Technical Exhibit 9 TAP Pre-Transition Questionnaire Survey Monkey; Technical

Question 6: What is the mechanism to consolidate and dashboard the survey results?

Answer 6: Currently, this information is provided in Excel. Vendor can determine how they want to provide this information.

Reference: Technical Exhibit 9 TAP Pre-Transition Questionnaire Survey Monkey; Technical

Question 7: Is Survey Monkey a required mechanism or can the contractor propose an alternative application?

Answer 7: Yes, this is the current system that the Government is providing.

Reference: Request_for_Proposal_W9124D20R0016_SFL_TAP_dtd022820, Section: M (Past Performance Factor), Paragraph: 8, Page: 113

Question 8: How will a past performance of an SDVOSB be evaluated if past contracts do not reflect equivalent contract value as that of this RFP?

Answer 8: Relevancy is not separately rated; however, the following criteria will be used to establish what is relevant which shall include similarity of service/support, complexity, dollar value, contract type, and degree of subcontract/teaming. There are four levels of relevancy as shown in the table below.

Comment: No SDVOSB would have the same dollar value of this contract because they would no longer be a small if they did.

Reference: Request_for_Proposal_W9124D20R0016_SFL_TAP_dtd022820, Section: 5.28 Soldier and Family Assistance Center (SFAC) Counselor, Paragraph: 4, Page: 47, Question 9: While SFAC Counselors provide the same services as the Transition Counselors, are the qualifications and certifications of an SFAC Counselor the same as those for a Transition Counselor?

If not, what are the qualifications for an SFAC Counselor?

Answer 9: Same requirements.

Reference: Request_for_Proposal_W9124D20R0016_SFL_TAP_dtd022820, Section: L (Volume Title) Paragraph: 4, Page: 103

Question 10: In the Technical section, will the Government allow inclusion of a compliance matrix without having the page count be included against the 40 page limit?

Answer 10: Not sure of what is contain of your description of a “Compliance Matrix” However, if the “Compliance Matrix contain information below it will not be a part of the 40 page count stated as follows:

Page limit does not include covers for volumes, tables of contents, glossary of abbreviations and acronyms, indices, title pages, cross reference indices, and section dividers/tables if they are inserted solely to provide ease to the reader in locating parts/sections of the proposal. Pages will be counted if they contain any other information, i.e., diagrams, extraneous data, etc. Pages marked “This page intentionally left blank” will not be counted.

Section: 1, Paragraph: 1.1.1, Page: 13

Question 11: Is there a more detailed breakdown of the expected services to be delivered via the TAP Virtual Center?

Answer 11: The virtual center provides the same services as a brick and mortar location

Section: 1, Paragraph: 1.1.1, Page: 13, Question 12: Will the contract include any software development services or will all virtual services be provided by the existing TAP Virtual Center? Such as the virtual video conferencing capability?

Answer 12: All virtual services will be provide using Government provided software.

No software development is included in this requirement.

Section: 1, Paragraph: 1.5.5.1, Page: 15

Question 13: Will work be performed on any day that the President designates as a federal holiday, e.g. the day proceeding or following Christmas?

Answer 13: If the President designates a Federal holiday, in pursuant to FAR Part 43 Contract Modifications and more specifically, changes to the terms of the contract. Changes in workforce time off shall be negotiated, and documented via a bilateral modification to the contract.

Section: 1, Paragraph: 1.5.6, Page: 17

Question 14: Is there a current published list of established hours for each of the brick-and-mortar locations?

Answer: 14: No, there is not a published list. Generally, they open no earlier than 7:00 am and close no later than 6:00 pm local time.

Section: 1, Paragraph: 1.5.10, Page: 17

Question 15: What is the current turnover rate for the incumbent?

Answer 15: Not releasable.

Section: 1, Paragraph: 1.5.16, Page: 18

Question 16: Are there any current obstacles under SOFA to hire contractors for host nations under SOFA identified in the PWS?

Answer 16: No.

Section: 1, Paragraph: 1.5.19, Page: 18

Question 17: If the incumbent employee desires to join the contract awardee, will the employee have to seek a new approval from the German Federal Ministry of Labor (or other host nation government)?

Answer 17: At this time, the German Ministry will continue to approve (grandfather) the incumbent employees.

Section: 1, Paragraph: 1.5.19, Page: 18

Question 18: What is the average time for the host nation government to approve contractors for work?

Answer 18: 4-6 weeks after the contract is approved.

Section: 1, Paragraph: 1.5.24.9, Page: 21

Question 19: Will contractor personnel have access to a site to complete the DoD Cyber Awareness Challenge Training? The current site is blocked to those outside the .mil domain (https://ia.signal.army.mil/DoDIAA/default.asp). Would training through JKO be permissible?

Answer 19: Yes, once a CAC card has been issued. Each installation has their IT processes for access. No, JKO is not permissible.

Section: 1, Paragraph: 1.5.24.10, Page: 21

Question 20: How many hours of Enterprise-directed and Local Installation Government- Mandated Training is required during the contract period?

Answer 20: Unanswerable, each installation requirements are not the same.

Section: 1, Paragraph: 1.5.43.2, Page: 24

Question 21: Are the requirements listed in 1.5.16 and 1.5.19 included in the 60 day phase-in period?

Answer 21: Paragraph 1.5.16 is included in the phase-in period. Paragraph 1.5.19 address those that go TDY.

Section: 1, Paragraph: 1.5.43 (.7?)(Duplicate 1.5.43), Page: 25

Question 22: Are there any special contingencies associated with the current Coronavirus (COVAD 19) that affect the contract solicitation?

Answer 22: Not at this time.

Section: 3, Paragraph: 3.1, Page: 33

Question 23: Will the government coordinate for the approval of an Authority to operate on the government network for any peripherals (hardware and software) owned by the contractor and used on the government network?

Answer 23: No

Section: 5, Paragraph: 5.1.6, Page: 35

Question 24: How much lead time will the government provide the contractor when changes are made to workshops (assuming DOL or the VA make changes)?

Answer 24: Once the determination is made by the government, the contractor will be informed. There is no set lead time.

Section: 5, Paragraph: 5.2.7, Page: 36

Question 25: Is there a complete list of virtual platforms (example Facebook & Twitter) that will be required to use or maintain?

Answer 25: No, there is not a list. It will be based on the approved Strategic Communication (STRATCOM) plan.

Section: 5, Paragraph: 5.2.7, Page: 36

Question 26: Is there a requirement to monitor and communicate via social platforms such as Facebook or is contract limited to posting relevant content and events?

Answer 26: This will be based on the approved STRATCOM. See section 5.3 of the

PWS.

Section: 5, Paragraph: 5.30.2.6, Page: 48

Question 27: Will the requirement to meet and coordinate IT requirements require any IT development services?

Answer 27: No, there is no development requirement in the PWS.

Section: General

Question 28: Is the incumbent currently arming its deployed personnel?

Answer 28: No. The Government does not have deployed personnel on this contract.

The Contractor provided individuals that work OCONUS are not in a deployed status.

Section: General

Question 29: Is the incumbent currently providing security services for its deployed personnel?

Answer 29: Not that the government is aware of as we do not have deployed personnel on this requirement.

.Section: General

Question 30: Is contract-provided proof of medical, dental, and psychological screening sufficient to satisfy the requirement for deployment?

Answer 30: Up to the vendor to ensure the employee is medically fit to work overseas.

Section: General

Question 31: Has any potential offeror provided the government with a capabilities briefing for this solicitation?

Answer 31: Contractors have provided the Government with its capabilities statements

Section: Tech Exhibit 3, Paragraph: Sect E. Para 1, Page: 2

Question 32: How long would a position need to be vacant in order for the COR to issue a NCR?

Is it the same for CONUS and OCONUS?

Answer 32: See section 5.4.1 of the PWS

Section: Sect L, Paragraph: Instructions, Page: 106(5)

Question 33: The RFP states, offerors shall submit proposed loaded labor rates for all positions which are not covered by the US Department of Labor Wage Determinations, such as exempt employees and OCONUS position employees. Please provide the list of positions covered under the US Department of Labor Wage Determinations

Answer 33: The only positions that are exempt from the US Department of Labor Wage Determinations are the Program Manager, Deputy Program Manager, and the Contract Installation Manager/Regional Manager.

Section: Sect L, Paragraph: Instructions, Page: 106(iii)

Question 34: It states, offeror shall also submit the written consent of its major subcontractors to allow the disclosure of its subcontractor’s past performance information to the offeror. In addition, letters of commitment shall be included for all major subcontractors for their past performance to be considered.

a. Do you have a template you want to provide?

Answer 34: a. No. The Government does not provide a template for contractors’ and/or subcontractors’ past performance information.

b. Does the disclosure letter and letters of commitments count towards the page count for each subcontractor?

Answer 34: b. Consent letter and letters of commitments does not count towards the page count for each sub-contractor.

Section: C. EVALUATION APPROACH, Paragraph: Past Performance, Page: 113(a)

Question 35:

a. Are we to include all subcontractor relevant records of performance or only those that are considered major subcontractors performing 10%?

Answer 35a: Contractor shall include relevant performance for those that are considered major subcontractors performing 10% or more of the proposed work.

b. Can you eliminate the major subcontractor definition and include all subcontractors records of performance?

Answer 35b: No.

c. Can CPARS be included in the Volume in lieu of or in addition to the required sections?

Answer 35c: CPARS may be included in the Volume in lieu of or in addition to the required section.

Section: General

Question 36: Has the government considered providing hazardous duty insurance coverage to contractors deployed forward locations on this contract.

Answer 36: No, as this requirement does not have any “Theater” locations.

Section: PWS 1.1.1, Paragraph: 1, Page 13, Question 37: The PWS 1.1.1 section states the contractor shall utilize existing capabilities to offer a choice-based program, allowing clients to receive services via face-to-face and/or virtual means as the client elects, with the virtual counseling center listed as an existing capability. Will the Government please provide the other choices available to clients that make TAP a “choice-based” program? For example, is choice-based program limited to delivery option (face-to-face vs. virtual) and ITP track choice?

Answer 37: IAW AR 600-81, the client is to conduct a face-to-face, counseling when they are with in the 50 mile radius of a center, the virtual allows those outside and within to conduct some transition services using the virtual center. The vendor is not to push the VC in lieu of the brick and mortar centers.

Section: PWS 1.1.1 and 1.5.10, Paragraph: 1, Page: 13 and 17

Question 38: The PWS 1.1.1 section states the contractor shall utilize existing capabilities to offer a choice-based program, allowing clients to receive services via face-to-face and/or virtual means as the client elects, with the virtual counseling center listed as an existing capability. The PWS section

1.5.10 states the contractor shall maintain a sufficient workforce to deliver uninterrupted performance of all tasks, service walk-in clients, and offer the choice-based services prescribed by AR 600-81 and the PWS at all times, and further states that at no time will a transition counselor direct a Soldier to the Virtual Center. These two PWS sections appear contradictory to one another. Will the Government clarify how the contractor is to utilize the Virtual Center to offer a choice-based program when a transition counselor is specifically not to direct a Soldier to the Virtual Center for services?

Answer 38: The VC is for the client to use when it is their choice and not the contractor’s means to subsidize an installations staffing shortfalls. See TE 4D for additional information on workload history.

Section: PWS 1.5.10, Paragraph: 1, Page: 17

Question 39: The PWS section 1.5.10 states the contractor shall maintain a sufficient workforce to deliver uninterrupted performance of all tasks, service walk-in clients, and offer the choice-based services prescribed by AR 600-81 and the PWS at all times, and further states that at no time will a transition counselor direct a Soldier to the Virtual Center. However, there is a significant amount of historical workload provided in Technical Exhibit 4D, including over 41,588 In Bound Calls, 8,549 Virtual Requests, and 11,162 Virtual Visits in FY 2018 alone. To assist offerors in forecasting future workload across locations, can the Government clarify if the contractor’s transition counselors were able to direct Soldiers to Virtual Center services in FY 2017 and FY 2018?

Answer 39: No, they were not to direct Soldier’s to the Virtual Center.

Section: PWS 2.1.25 and 5.21, Paragraph: 1.1, Page: 29 and 42

Question 40: PWS Section 5.21 states ‘All career tracks are optional and clients may take multiple tracks’. However, the definition of a Tier 3 assigned transition requirement states ‘Must attend a 2-day track based on assessment results’. Will the Government please clarify if career tracks are optional as stated in 5.21 or if career tracks are mandatory for Soldiers with a Tier 3 assessment result?

Answer 40: Tracks can be taken by all Tiers 1 & 2 if so desired, however, Tier 3 must choose a track.

Section: PWS 2.1.24 and 2.1.25, Paragraph: 1.1, Page: 29

Question 41: When comparing the definitions of a Tier 2 and Tier 3 assigned transition requirement, the only difference appears to be regarding the attendance at a 2-day track course. Tier 2 assigned ‘may be required to attend a 2-day track based on assessment results’ whereas a Tier 3 assigned ‘must attend a 2-day track based on assessment results’. Does the assessment result identify the 2-day track attendance requirement, is this a decision made at the discretion of the Transition Counselor during the IIC or the Commander decides this or is there a separate determinant used?

Answer 41: Yes, there is a database used to assist the counselor in determining the requirement. If a 2-day track is required or desired by the Soldier, the counselor will make recommendation based on the Soldier goals.

Section: PWS 5.8.1, Paragraph: 1, Page: 40

Question 42: According to PWS section 5.8.1, the contractor is to schedule and assist clients for their initial assessment and assign them to either Tiers 1, 2, or 3. Does the contractor use their discretion to assign clients to a Tier, or does the initial assessment result provide the Tier and corresponding client requirements?

Answer 42: See answer to #41

Section: PWS 5.8.1, Paragraph: 1, Page: 40

Question 43: What is the initial assessment the client is to complete? Is it available online? Is it something the contractor is to provide, is it provided by the Government, or is it proprietary to the current contractor? What does the initial assessment provide in terms of results to the contractor to use to assist and direct the client?

Answer 43: The initial assessment is done with a 1-1 session. See answer to #41

Section: PWS 5.13.4, Paragraph: 1, Page: 41

Question 44: The PWS 5.13.4 states ‘If the Government determines that a location does not have adequate network or other resources to support a distributed platform, or survey satisfaction rates drop below 90%, all financial planning services must be able to be delivered in-person’. Is it the Government’s intention for financial planning services to be delivered virtually if a TAP location has adequate network resources?

Answer 44: No. The preferred method is in-person.

Section: 5.7, Paragraph: 1, Page: 39

Question 45: Does the Government provide a Case Management application to perform the required case management functions described throughout section 5.7-5.7.6?

Answer 45: Yes, TAP XXI is the system utilized.

Section: 5.23.3, Paragraph: 1, Page: 54-55

Question 46: The solicitation is for a FFP contract for labor, yet the Government is requiring a man hour report by locations and labor categories, number of employees and total hours worked under the contract every month in addition to a detailed staffing roster every two weeks, and a Monthly Status Report containing a cumulative staffing roster with fill rate, and by site counselor turnover rate. This seems excessive given the reporting requirements for vacancies and the staffing vacancy disincentives, plus adds to the administrative workload. Will the Government consider consolidating these reports into 1 monthly requirement?

Answer 46: No. All three are used for different purposes.

Section: 1.5.2, Paragraph: 1, Page: 15

Question 47: The contractor is shall incorporate installation-specific process/methods into the QCP prior to executing the QCP at that installation’s TAP Center, and the QCP is due within 30 days after the start of phase-in. To properly incorporate installation-specific process/methods into the QCP prior to contract execution, will the Government provide the contractor with the installation-specific process/methods at the time of award or kick-off meeting?

Answer 47: The services delivered/requirements are the same throughout all installations. The local Commanders can designate specific focus areas (e.g. financial or resumes) that would need be addressed in the QC Report for that location.

Section: TE 4B, Paragraph: N/A, Page: N/A

Question 48: On Technical Exhibit 4B, CSP Installation Manager Distribution, the locations are identified as a hub, main or satellite location but appear to be grouped by descending number of ASIP.

Will the Government provide a list of Hubs with the main location and corresponding satellite locations?

For example, one would speculate that Fort Stewart is a main location associated with a satellite location of Hunter AAF.

Answer 48: See updated Technical Exhibit 4B.

Section: 5.23.4, Paragraph: 1, Page: 44

Question 49: If the DGR has the ability to alter course materials, slides, and lengths, the contractor loses quality control capability and the integrity of Program of Instruction for additive classes/workshops is altered. In order to maintain program standardization, consistency of services, and level of effort across all locations, will the Government consider removing the DGR ability to adjust course length, slides, and materials to meet individual site needs? This would leave the statement as “Course frequency may be adjusted in coordination with the DGR to meet individual site needs.”

Answer 49: No. DGR ability will not be changed.

Section: 5.23.1, Paragraph: 1, Page: 44

Question 50: Will the Government provide the program of instruction for the six existing classes/workshops to the awardee for review for improvements, development, and maintenance tasks identified in PWS section 5/23/1?

Answer 50: Will be provided upon award

Section: 5.25, Paragraph: 1, Page: 46

Question 51: Will the Government provide the awardee with the Nominative Sergeants Major Executive Level Nominative Transition course Program of Instruction, or will the awardee have to produce the Program of Instruction for this course?

Answer 51: The contractor shall deliver the already developed material.

Section: 5.25, Paragraph: 1, Page: 46

Question 52: How many instructional hours is the Executive Level Nominative Transition course?

Answer 52: 40 hours.

Section: 3, Paragraph: N/A, Page: 33

Question 53: Will the government provide the current MOS Crosswalk, My Transition Facilitator Guides?

Answer 53: Yes, See updated Technical Exhibit 17.

Section: 3, Paragraph: N/A, Page: 33

Question 54: Will the Government provide the current Pre-Separation Counseling Counselor guide/script?

Answer 54: Yes, See updated Technical Exhibit 19

Section: 5.4.2, Paragraph: 1, Page: 38

Question 55: Will the Government provide the current locally-developed Service Provider lists upon award for review and maintenance?

Answer 55: No, however, this will be available to each individual installation.

Section: PWS Section L, Paragraph: (ii) Volume II Cost/Price (5), Page: 106

Question 56: Will the Government provide the U.S. Department of Labor Wage Determinations for the affected labor categories?

Answer 56: The Government has provided the most current list of Wage Determinations, Revision Numbers, and Dates, See Section J – List of Documents, Exhibits and Other Attachments, titled:

Wage Determinations (WDS).

Section: PWS Section L, Paragraph: (iii) Volume III Past Performance, Page: 106

Question 57: Will the Government consider changing the past performance timeline for the prime offeror and each major subcontractor from 3 years to 5 years from the date of RFP issuance in order to best identify all SDVOSB offerors range of capabilities and efforts? Given the minimal number of contracts pertaining to military transition programs, the NAICS code, $12 Million size standard, and SDVOSB requirement, expanding the past performance timeline is more inclusive for small business competition and better captures SDVOSB efforts relevant to the Army TAP requirements.

Answer 57: No.

Section: PWS Section L, Paragraph: 3.c(iii)(1)(e), Volume III – Past Performance, Page: 107

Question 58: Can the Government define the role of the Government contract administration activity’s Pre-Award Monitor?

Answer 58: Per question herein is stated as Government contract administration activity’s Pre-Award Monitor are work performed as the Pre-award Contracting Officer and Contract Specialist

Section: Specific Task 5, Paragraph: 5.1.8, Page: 35

Question 59: PWS states that Contractor shall provide services……that maintains or exceeds a 90% satisfaction rate and report monthly. What is the government survey instrument used to determine the satisfaction rating?

Answer 59: See answer to question #7

Section: L.3.c.1(3) Tab C, subfactor 3, Paragraph: 5, Page: 105

Question 60: Will the Government allow the Quality Control Plan to be submitted as a non-page limited Attachment to Volume I?

Answer 60:. No.

Section: L.2.g., Paragraph: 4, Page: 103

Question 61: Will the Government increase the page limit for Volume I by 10 pages to a total of 50 pages?

Answer 61:. No.

Section: 2. Proposal Submission Requirements, Paragraph G., Page 103.

Question 62: Will the government consider increasing the page count?

Answer 62: No

Section: 3. Proposal Files, Paragraph C(i)(1) Volume I-Technical, TAB A Subfactor 1, 4th para, Page 105.

Question 63: Can key personnel resumes be excluded from the page count?

Answer 63:: Resumes are included in page count

Section: C. Evaluation Approach, Paragraph 2(a)- Cost/Price Reasonableness, page 112.

Question 64: Due to numerous awards being significantly underbid and awarded, resulting in less than optimal performance, would the government consider using cost realism rather than cost reasonableness IAW FAR 15.404-1(d)(3)? Cost realism analyses may also be used on competitive fixed-price incentive contracts or, in exceptional cases, on other competitive fixed-price-type contracts when new requirements may not be fully understood by competing offerors, there are quality concerns, or past experience indicates that contractors' proposed costs have resulted in quality or service shortfalls. Results of the analysis may be used in performance risk assessments and responsibility determinations. However, proposals shall be evaluated using the criteria in the solicitation, and the offered prices shall not be adjusted as a result of the analysis.

Answer 64: No

Section: Amendment 1, Summary of Changes, Paragraph D, Page 2-3.

Question 65: Can the government identify the SCA labor category for the TAP labor categories identified in Amendment 1, or are these separate from the SCA wage determination documents published by DOL?

Answer 65: The classifications of Career Counselor, Financial Counselor and Installation Liaison are non-standard occupations. DOL has not done an actual wage determination for these occupations. The Government has attached the DOL approved wage rates from 2018 for these positions.

Offerors may choose to index the current rates using the current list of wage determinations, instead of doing a new conformance.

Question 66: Can the government identify the SCA labor category for the TAP labor categories identified in Amendment 1, or are these separate from the SCA wage determination documents published by DOL?

Answer 66: The classifications of Career Counselor, Financial Counselor and Installation

Liaison are non-standard occupations. DOL has not completed an actual wage determination for these occupations. The Government has attached the DOL approved wage rates from 2018 for these positions.

Offerors may choose to index the current rates using the current list of wage determinations, instead of doing a new conformance.

Question 67: Can the QCP be excluded from the page count?

Answer 67: No

Section Proposal Files, Paragraph 3b. File Packaging, Page 104.

Question 68: This section is somewhat unclear and contradictory. It states all files are to be compressed using WinZip 6.2 or later, then says Zip disks are not permitted, which would result in non-compliance. It also says files will be submitted in their native format, i.e. .doc, xls, ppt etc, then states files will be in read only format using PDF files, which is also contradictory.

It also says that the cost/price evaluation shall be submitted in Microsoft Office Excel. Can the government confirm that offerors may submit the price narrative in the native format or as PDF, and the cost/price breakdown shall be submitted in Microsoft Office Excel?

Answer 68: See answer to question #1

Section C, Part 5, Paragraph 5.22.2, Page 44 of 115

Question 69: There is a skip in numbering at 5.22.2, Vocational Training Track. Should there be a 5.22.2.1 through 5.22.2.8? Please confirm no content is missing

Answer 69: Numbering corrected. No missing content.

Section C, Part 5, Paragraph 5.22.3, Page 44 of 115

Question 70: There is a skip in numbering at 5.22.3, Entrepreneur Track. Should there be a

5.22.3.1 through 5.22.3.8? Please confirm no content is missing.

Answer 70: Numbering corrected. No missing content.

Section C., Paragraph 5.24.2 and 5.30.7.5, Page 45 and 50

Question 71: C.5.24.2 refers to an IMCOM Region CSP AHE. C.5.30.7.5 refers to AHE. Please specify what/who AHE refers to?

Answer 71: AHE formally known as Accessing Higher Education and is now known as the Education Track

Section C, Paragraph 5.7 and 5.20.5, Page 39 and 42, respectively

Question 72: The term “counselor” is generically referenced in the solicitation.

a. C.5.7 Case Management: refers several times to a Counselor, though only a generic counselor is specified, i.e., no specific functional type counselor (financial, transition, education, etc.).

Would the Government clarify which functional counselor it expects to be assigned to and manage cases?

b. 5.20.5. States: “…obtain the client’s and counselor’s signature.”

Would the Government specify which counselor? The assigned counselor specified in C.5.7 (see clarification above)?

Answer 72: See PWS section 5.7.1 – The counselor, who the client is assigned to at their initial counseling session and, shall serve as the case manager for that client.

Section L, Paragraph 3.c(i)1.d, Page 105

Question 73: Would the Government please confirm key personnel Letters of Commitment (LOCs) are considered outside of page count?

Answer 73: Letters of Commitment will not be included in page count

Section L, Paragraph 3.c(i)1.d, Page 105

Question 74: Would the Government please confirm LOCs may be provided as an Attachment?

Answer 74: Letters of Commitment may be provided as an attachment be shall label/cross-walked properly as information regarding VOLUME III – Past Performance

Section L, Paragraph 3.c(iii), Page 106

Question 75: L.3.c(iii) states: The offeror shall also submit the written consent of its major subcontractors to allow the disclosure of its subcontractor’s past performance information to the offeror.

In addition, letters of commitment shall be included for all major subcontractors for their past performance to be considered. This volume shall be organized into the following sections:

75a. Would the Government please confirm Major Subcontractors’ (1) Letters of Commitment (LOCs) and (2) Letters of Consent for Disclosure of Past Performance are considered outside of page count?

Answer 75a: Letters of Commitment and Letters of Consent will not be included in page count and may be provided as an attachment; however, subcontractors’ past performance information to the offeror shall be label/cross-walked properly as information regarding Past Performance information.

75b. May Offerors provide both letters in an Attachment?

Answer 75b: See answer in question #75a

Section M, Paragraph C.1, SF3, Page 111-112

Question 76: M.C.1.SF1 states: Subfactor 3 Proposed Execution of the Program: The Government will evaluate the offeror’s Proposed Execution of the Program. The Government will evaluate the offeror’s proposed quality control processes to ensure the requirements of the contract are provided as specified, including how the contract will be managed to ensure quality control across all contract services.

76a. Would the Government clarify the intended content of this Subfactor?

Answer 76a: The Government request and/or intent is as stated.

76b. Specifically, does the Government expect Offerors’ “Proposed Execution of the Program” is a response to the Quality Control system, plan, processes, etc., OR is there additional information the Government expects to review?

Answer 76b: The contractor shall demonstrate to the government on their thought and plan to monitor their performance.

Section M, Paragraph C.1, SF3, Page 111-112

Question 77: M.C.1.SF1 states: The Government will evaluate the offeror’s demonstrated ability to understand and execute the process of executing the tasks necessary for the execution of a Department of Defense (DoD) procedures for obtaining Status of Forces Agreements (SOFA), knowledge of Host Nation Agreements, and placing personnel in foreign offices in accordance with DoD Office of Contractor Personnel (DOCPER), Synchronized Pre-deployment and Operational Tracker (SPOT), and Capstone requirement for a viable transition assistance program. This is a very long sentence and it is unclear what is meant by the last few words…. “and Capstone requirement for a viable transition assistance program.”. Would the Government make clear what it expects of Offeror’s responses with regard to Capstone requirements? Specifically, is the Government asking about….“placing personnel in foreign countries IAW … Capstone requirements?” Or something else? No L instructions are available to clarify this.

Answer 77: The CAPSTONE process is the final step in completing a client’s transition.

And, information regarding CAPSTONE shall be removed from Section M.

Section TE 3, TE 3A and C, Paragraph N/A, Page

Technical Exhibit (TE) 3 identifies positions for all TAP locations. TE 3 is the basis of the excel solicitation file Offeror’s Proposed Alternate Staffing Plan, that Offerors will use to present alternate staffing plans. TE 3A provides position descriptions and qualifications for most non-PMO positions, and for some-PMO positions. The following series of questions pertains to solicitation positions and Government-provided “Position Description and Qualifications” for all PMO and Non-PMO positions to ensure an equitable analysis of Offerors’ staffing plans and cost volumes.

Section TE 3, TE 3A

Question 78a: TE 3 A does not provide a “Position Description and Qualifications” for all positions. For bid continuity, please provide a “Position Description and Qualifications” for:

Admin Specialist.

Answer 78a: The Government will not dictate your positions descriptions. Based on past experience, we did identify qualification for certain positions as articulated in Technical Exhibit 3A.

If a position is not listed, the contractor shall articulate the needed qualifications based on what is stated in the PWS. For Admin Specialist, see section 5.31.1.

Section TE 3, TE 3A and C Paragraph C.5.31.2, Page: N/A

Question 78b: Is the C.5.31.2 Installation Liaison (LNO) the same position as the TE 3A Liaison Officer (LNO)?

Answer 78b: The Government will not dictate your positions descriptions. Based on past experience, we did identify qualification for certain positions as articulated in Technical Exhibit 3A.

If a position is not listed, the contractor should be able to articulate the needed qualifications based on what is stated in the PWS. Also, for the LNO, see section 5.31.2.

Section TE 3, TE 3A and C, Paragraph C.5.31.2, Page 53

Question 78b1. TE 3 A does not provide a “Position Description and Qualifications” for all positions. For bid continuity, please provide a “Position Description and Qualifications” for:

Installation Liaison referenced in C.5.31.2 Installation Liaison (LNO).

Double check (missing 78b2)

Answer 78b1: See answer to #78b.

Section TE 3, TE 3A and C, Paragraph C.5.31.2, Page 53

Question 78b3. Should the LNO duties provided in TE 3A include those also identified in C.5.31.2.1 through 5.31.2.17, which currently do not align with those specified in the TE 3A Liaison Officer (LNO) “Position Description and Qualifications.”

Answer 78b3. See answer to 78b.

Section TE 3, TE 3A, Paragraph, Page: N/A

Question 78c. TE 3A provides a “Position Description and Qualifications” for position CSP Coordinator. Within the position description, there is reference to “CSP Administrators” and “CSPAs”.

Would the Government clarify this position title used and align the solicitation TE 3 and TE 3A positions referenced?

Answer 78c. The titles are interchangeable.

Section TE 3, TE 3A, Paragraph N/A, Page: N/A

Question 78d. TE 3 A does not provide a “Position Description and Qualifications” for all positions. For bid continuity, please provide a “Position Description and Qualifications” for:

Transition Subject Matter Expert (Intel) – VA.

Answer 78d. See answer to 78b.

Question 78e. TE 3 A does not provide a “Position Description and Qualifications” for all positions. For bid continuity, please provide a “Position Description and Qualifications” for: Trainer/ Facilitator (Senior) – KY.

Answer 78e. The Government will not dictate your positions descriptions. Based on past experience, we did identify qualification for certain positions as articulated in Technical Exhibit 3A.

If a position is not listed, the contractor should be able to articulate the needed qualifications based on what is stated in the PWS. The Trainer/Facilitator positions are included to support the contractor’s ability to ensure that their staff is trained and to provide feedback on Government developed curriculum (see PWS 5.2.21).

Question 78f. TE 3 A does not provide a “Position Description and Qualifications” for all positions. For bid continuity, please provide a “Position Description and Qualifications” for: Trainer / Facilitator (Junior) – KY.

Answer 78f. See answer to #78e.

Section TE 3 and C, Paragraph 5.30.2, Page 48

Question 78g1: Is the TE 3 position Systems Design (IT LNO), Fort Knox, KY, the same position as C.5.30.2, IT Liaison TAP Program Office Fort Knox, KY? Would the Government clarify this in the solicitation?

Answer 78g1: Yes

Question 78g2: TE 3 A does not provide a “Position Description and Qualifications” for all positions. For bid continuity, please provide a “Position Description and Qualifications” for: Systems Design (IT LNO), Fort Knox, KY.

Answer 78g2: The Government will not dictate your positions descriptions. Based on past experience, we did identify qualification for certain positions as articulated in Technical Exhibit 3A.

If a position is not listed, the contractor should be able to articulate the needed qualifications based on what is stated in the PWS. For the LNO, see section 5.30.2.

Section C, Paragraph 5.30.2, Page 48

Question 78g3: TE 3 A does not provide a “Position Description and Qualifications” for all positions. For bid continuity, please provide a “Position Description and Qualifications” for: C.5.30.2, IT Liaison TAP Program Office Fort Knox, KY.

Answer 78g3: See answer to #78g2.

Section TE 3, Paragraph, Page: N/A

Question: 78h1: In TE 3, as part of PMO, a position includes: Senior Analyst/LNO at Fort Knox, KY.

a. The duties and qualifications of a Senior Analyst are different than an LNO, and impact our staffing plan. Would the Government clarify this position “Senior Analyst/LNO” position?

Answer 78h1a: The Government will not dictate your positions descriptions. Based on past experience, the Government identify qualification for certain positions as articulated in Technical Exhibit 3A. If a position is not listed, the contractor should be able to articulate the needed qualifications based on what is stated in the PWS. The 2 positions articulated in Technical Exhibit 3 should cover

5.30.2 and 5.30.4. How the vendor chooses to do this is up to them.

b. Does the Government view these positions as interchangeable to fulfill very different duties

– Senior Analyst C.5.30.4 and LNO (TE 3A and/or C.5.31.2 [see prior question about qualifications and responsibilities thereof])?

Answer 78h1b: See answer to #78h1a.

c. Would the Government advise of what is required relative to staffing this position?

Answer 78h1c: See answer to #78h1a.

Section TE 3, TE 3A, Paragraph all, Page

Question 78h2: TE 3 A does not provide a “Position Description and Qualifications” for all positions. For bid continuity, please provide a “Position Description and Qualifications” for: Senior Analyst/LNO at Fort Knox, KY.

Answer 78h2: See answer to #78h1a.

Section TE 3, TE 3A, Paragraph all, Page

Question 78i: TE 3 A does not provide a “Position Description and Qualifications” for all positions. For bid continuity, please provide a “Position Description and Qualifications” for: Marketing Specialist/Strategic Planner, Fort Knox, KY.

Answer 78i: The Government will not dictate your positions descriptions. Based on past experience, the Government identify qualification for certain positions as articulated in Technical Exhibit 3A. If a position is not listed, the contractor shall articulate the needed qualifications based on what is stated in the PWS. Section 5.3 of the PWS.

Section TE 3, TE 3A, Paragraph, Page

Question 78j: TE 3 A does not provide a “Position Description and Qualifications” for all positions. For bid continuity, please provide a “Position Description and Qualifications” for: General Clerk, Fort Knox, KY.

Answer 78j: The Government will not dictate your positions descriptions. Based on past experience, the Government identify qualification for certain positions as articulated in Technical Exhibit 3A. If a position is not listed, the contractor shall articulate the needed qualifications based on what is stated in the PWS. See PWS 5.30.5.

Section TE 3, TE 3A, Paragraph N/A, Page

Question 78k: TE 3 identifies a position titled: Regional Manager/Quality Control, Fort Knox, KY.

a. Would the Government confirm the TE 3A “Position Description and Qualifications” requirements of the CIM/Regional Manager – Quality Control apply to this position, Regional Manager/Quality Control, Fort Knox, KY?

Answer 78ka: Yes, it applies to this position

b. If not, would the Government please provide a “Position Description and Qualifications” for: Regional Manager/Quality Control, Fort Knox, KY?

Answer78kb: See answer to 78ka.

Section TE 3, TE 3A, Paragraph, Page

Question 78l: TE 3 A does not provide a “Position Description and Qualifications” for all positions. For bid continuity, please provide a “Position Description and Qualifications” for:

Senior Analyst (TCAT Consultant) – VA.

Answer 78l: The Government will not dictate your positions descriptions. Based on past experience, the Government identify qualification for certain positions as articulated in Technical Exhibit 3A. If a position is not listed, the contractor shall articulate the needed qualifications based on what is stated in the PWS. See PWS 5.30.9.

Question 78m: TE 3 A does not provide a “Position Description and Qualifications” for all positions. For bid continuity, please provide a “Position Description and Qualifications” for: Junior Analyst (TCAT Consulting), Crystal City, VA.

Answer 78m: See answer to #78l.

Question 78n: TE 3 A does not provide a “Position Description and Qualifications” for all

Senior Analyst (Education) – TX.

Answer 78n: The Government will not dictate your positions descriptions. Based on past experience, the Government identify qualification for certain positions as articulated in Technical Exhibit 3A. If a position is not listed, the contractor shall articulate the needed qualifications based on what is stated in the PWS. See PWS 5.30.7 and 5.22

Question 78o: TE 3 A does not provide a “Position Description and Qualifications” for all positions. For bid continuity, please provide a “Position Description and Qualifications” for:

Senior Analyst (CSP) – TX.

Answer 78o. The Government will not dictate your positions descriptions. Based on past experience, the Government identify qualification for certain positions as articulated in Technical Exhibit 3A. If a position is not listed, the contractor shall articulate the needed qualifications based on what is stated in the PWS. See PWS 5.30.7 and 5.24.

Question 78p. TE 3 A does not provide a “Position Description and Qualifications” for all

Senior Analyst *** INCOMM – TX.

Answer 78p. The Government will not dictate your positions descriptions. Based on past experience, the Government identify qualification for certain positions as articulated in Technical Exhibit 3A. If a position is not listed, the contractor shall articulate the needed qualifications based on what is stated in the PWS. See PWS section 5.30.7.

Section TE 3, Paragraph: N/A, Page: N/A

Question 79: TE 3 lists location Carlisle Barracks, but does not provide an FTE estimate.

a. Would the Government confirm zero (0) FTE at Carlisle Barracks is accurate?

Answer79a: See “Optimal Staffing Plan”, Carlisle Barracks has 2 FTST Transition

Counselors.

b. Does the Government expect staff from another location to cover the Carlisle Barracks location?

Answer79b: See answer to #79a.

c. Does the Government expect Offeror’s to assign staff to Carlisle Barracks?

Answer79c: See answer to #79a.

Section TE 3, Paragraph: N/A, Page: N/A

Question 80: TE 3 identifies at least one Transition Counselor for each of the listed locations except the following four:

1. Belvoir (USAR) - FTST Staff Support location

2. NG HQ (Arlington, VA) - FTST Staff Support location

3. Knox (HQ) (FTST Manager) - FTST Staff Support location 4.Yongsan, Korea

Is this correct?

Answer 80: Yes, See Technical Exhibit 3.

Section C.5.4.1, Paragraph: N/A, Page 38

Question 81: Section 5.4.1 Position Vacancy Notification/Deductions – The RFP states “…For positions subject to the Service Contract Act, the Position Vacancy Deduction (TE 3B) shall be calculated monthly as follows: the number of days the position is vacant in the corresponding month of each vacancy times eight (hours), times the DOL conformed hourly wage rate plus burdens for that position. For positions exempt from the Service Contract Act, the Position Vacancy Deduction shall be calculated monthly as follows: the number of days the position is vacant in the corresponding month of each vacancy times eight (hours), times the fully burdened labor hourly labor rate for each position.”

How will the “conformed hourly wage rate plus burdens for that position” be calculated?

Cost/Price proposal instructions only have offeror providing fully burdened rates for non-Wage Determination employees in the cost proposal.

Answer 81: The information for the conformed rates will be calculated as listed on page 3 of Amendment 0001. Burdens would be calculated in accordance with the way you normally calculate them and added to the conformed cost.

Section L.3(ii)(5), Paragraph: N/A, Page 106

Question 82: Proposal Submission Requirements (ii) Volume II – Cost/Price (5) – The RFP states “Offerors shall submit proposed loaded labor rates for all positions which are not covered by the US Department of Labor Wage Determinations, such as exempt employees and OCONUS position employees. The proposal shall include position titles, and the fully loaded labor rates, which includes the hourly rate and all applicable burden rates. These rates will be incorporated into the resulting contract and will be used solely for contract administration purposes including the Position Vacancy Notification/Deduction described in Paragraph 5.4.1. These rates will not be evaluated by the Government during the source selection.” Is the government requesting each labor category at each specific location be priced separately or can an aggregate rate per labor category be provided?

Answer 82: Offeror shall provide each labor category at each…