W9124J-21-R-0021 Attachment 5_QA_Communication Srvs_final_26 Aug 2021.pdf

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QUESTIONS & ANSWERS

QUESTI

ON NO.

SOLICITATIO

N PAGE NO.

RFP REFERENCE

QUESTION

GOVERNMENT RESPONSE

1, PWS

Page 4, 6

1.6.4, 1.6.13.1 RFP states the contractor must provide onsite support 0700

– 1800 M-F. The hours estimate provided on page 43 seems to indicate staff works an 8-hour verse 11-hour day.

Can OCPA please provide more detail on what level of staff onsite support they expect across each 11-hour day?

1) The requirement of services is from 0700 to 1800 M-F as stated in the PWS 1.6.4. It is up to the potential vendor in how they break their hours among their employees to provide the required service. This is a firm fixed price not labor hour contract.

2) The hours provided on page 43 of the PWS (Technical Exhibit #3) are just the estimated workload data of the available labor hours per annum (i.e. 2,080 available labor hours per annum per full time employee)

2 Attachment 1, PWS

1.6.4 Section references a section 5.3.10.1, but this does not exist in the PWS, was section 5.3.8.1 intended?

Yes, the PWS paragraph numbering has been corrected for 5.3.8.1 and 5.3.9.1.

3 Attachment 1,

1.6.5 In situations where working in an office is not possible (e.g., restrictions due to COVID-19), will the government authorize teleworking or “work at home”?

Yes, the Government will authorize teleworking as per PWS 1.6.5.1.

4 Attachment 1, PWS

1.6.13.3 The PWS requires the Program Manager and Alternate

Program Manager have a PMP (Project Management Professional) certification. Would the government be willing to modify this requirement to Program Manager and Alternate Program Manager have document high-level project management experience Or the Program Manager and Alternate Program Manager have document high-level project management experience plus a guarantee to obtain a PMP within 180-days of contract award?

No, the Government will not change the requirements for the Program Manager and Alternate Program Manager. As per PWS 1.6.13.3, the Program Manager and Alternate Program Manager have to have the Project Management Professional certification.

5 Attachment 1, PWS

4.3 Materials Government requires the contractor to have equipment to include typewriters, bar code scanners, warehouse space, tool kits, and workbenches. Can OCPA further explain how

The Government will not supply typewriters, bar code scanners, warehouse space, tool kits, and workbenches at the vendor’s location to perform

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these materials are used in performance of the work described by the contract?

any requirement of this PWS. Please see PWS 3.4 for Government furnished property. The Government will only supply for contractors working on government site for the 11 space available at the Pentagon.

6 Attachment 1,

5.2.4 Does the government currently have an online dashboard

which provides a public affairs common operating picture that provides information across the organization and informs communication strategy. If so, what software, applications and/or other technologies does the government currently use to power the dashboard? What authorized tools by the CIO-G6 and the Joint service provider currently exist which can be used to support his requirement?

No, the government currently does not have an online dashboard; dashboard is a new requirement.

OCPA has used C2IE (Command and Control of the Information Environment) to report engagements but it does not inform communication strategy.

The Contractor shall analyze and develop dashboard recommendations for OCPA leadership approval. The Contractor shall implement the dashboard developing while taking into accordance authorized tools by the CIO-G6 and the Joint service provider as per PWS 5.2.4

7 Attachment 1,

5.2.4 Is the offer to account for or estimate the costs of the dashboard tools, in Volume IV (Cost/Price)?

Yes, the Offerors have to provide the cost of each proposed tool under Other Direct Cost CLIN. The Pricing Matrix in Excel (Attachment 3) has been edited.

8 Attachment 1,

5.5.1 What is the estimated number of communication media

products to include social and digital media infographics, video and animations the contractor will be required to create per year?

Varies from month to month, but typically ranges between 8-10 products per month excluding the communication playbook. There are usually products in support of commemorations (28 per year) and a surge as we start planning for Army Birthday, Medal of Honor ceremonies and the Army’s participation in the Association of the US Army annual meeting. Products could come closer to 15-20 per month during surge periods.

Contractor supports OCPA with video and animation support at least once per year and this

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falls in line with our support to the Senior Leader Development Seminar, an annual occurrence.

9 Attachment 1,

5.5.1 The PWS states “The Contractor shall also manage the

Public Affairs Portal.” Could the government provide more detail on the scope of “manage the Public Affairs Portal”, i.e. does this include backend coding, page design, security etc. OR is this requirement primarily managing content on the front end or both? On what web platform is the portal built? What applications does it integrate? Is there a 24/7/365 maintenance and upkeep requirement for the contractor in managing the portal?

The requirement is managing Content in the front end and some coding but this is an HQDA SharePoint site already been set up and managed by PEO-EIS. It is on HQDA mainframe server and must be coordinate with Joint service provider (JSP). It works with all Microsoft software, browser, and Adobe. No, there is no 24/7/365 maintenance and upkeep requirement but upkeep is expected during the workweek to ensure communication products and other support materials are up to date.

10 Attachment 1,

4.1 PWS 4.1 states “the contractor shall furnish all supplies, equipment, facilities and services required to perform work under this contract that are not listed under Section 3 of this PWS. The Contractor Shall furnish everything, to include printing, publications and photos, etc. required to perform their tasks in the PWS. The printing of all documents shall be IAW with AR-25-30.” Is it accurate to interpret this as requiring the contractor to bear the cost of all printing association with delivery of this contract? For example, printing handouts for outreach events, signage for AUSA, program materials for PA training? And, beat the cost of none public domain graphic images required in creative products development? If so, does the government have any historic data on printing volume and costs?

The Contractors will bear the cost at the contractor location not at the government site. The Contractor must follow AR 25-30 and there is no cost at the Government site.

No, the Contractor will not bear the cost of all printing association with delivery of this contract, i.e. printing handouts for outreach events, signage for AUSA, program materials for PA training.

The Contractor does not do any printing work for OCPA and only prepares products for printing.

Contractor may advise OCPA planner on specifications for a print job with APD or Army Graphics.

11 Attachment 1,

5.2.4. Please confirm the presumption that the dashboard will be built on SharePoint as seemingly indicated in PWS 5.5.6.

If not, please say on what platform the dashboard should be

No, the dashboard is a separate entity from the PA portal which uses the SharePoint platform. The Government expects the contractor to present some

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built? Does a dashboard currently exist and if so on what platform is it built? This requirement further describes integration requirements of the dashboard, i.e. integrates with other HQDA leadership dashboards and integrates with project management tools. On what platform is the HQDA leadership platform built? What project management tool will the dashboard be required to integrate?

recommendations for a dashboard. The Contractor shall analyze and develop dashboard recommendations for OCPA leadership approval.

The Contractor shall implement the dashboard developing while taking into accordance authorized tools by the CIO-G6 and the Joint service provider as per PWS 5.2.4.

12 Attachment 1,

5.3.16 Is the offer to account for or estimate the costs of data monitoring and listening tools (e.g., Meltwater, Sprinklr), in Volume IV (Cost/Price)?

Yes, the Offerors have to provide the cost of each proposed tool under Other Direct Cost CLIN. The

13 Attachment 1,

5.3.16 What are the data monitoring and listening tools (e.g., Meltwater, Sprinklr, Google Analytics) that OCPA currently uses?

Meltwater and Sprinklr are currently primary tools.

The OCPA also uses TV Eyes. The Contractor should assess additional tools needed for media analysis. It is the Contractor’s responsibility to maintain licenses within the period of performance for all tools and subscriptions. ODC CLIN will cover the cost of the licenses. Please, follow PWS

1.6.18 in reference to ODC, i.e. the Contractor shall submit Proposal to Contracting Officer Representative (COR) and the Contracting Officer to receive approval for all ODC before purchasing.

14 Attachment 1,

5.5.6 The PWS requires the contractor to customize SharePoint sites using web parts, lists, libraries (along with other techniques) to disseminate information internally and/or externally to stakeholders. This includes managing the Public Affairs (PA) Portal and the Chief of Public Affairs Sends (CPA Sends) vehicle for transmitting communications guidance to Army leaders and public affairs officers. Is it correct to interpret this as the SharePoint environment is already in existence and the components listed above are already operational and in

The SharePoint site is already in existence, but the Contractor is expected to upkeep the site with new content, products, etc. The OCPA posts Public Affairs Guidance; communication plans on the site.

PA Menu includes: CPA Sends, Observances, PA toolkits and guidance, digital media resources, outreach resources, Meet Your Army, other communication products to name a few.

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use? What web parts, list, libraries and other techniques are currently installed and in use?

15 Attachment 1,

5.5.6.6. Please confirm the hours the Contractor shall provide daily functional support to SharePoint users who have issues accessing the site. i.e. 0700 – 1800 on workdays or 24/7/365? How may current users are there for the SharePoint environment described here? What level of support is required, i.e. email, phone, in-person?

0700 – 1800 on workdays

Anyone that has a CAC card has access to the portal but it’s designed as a resource for Public Affairs Officers and leaders. We post many products there and typically include links to the portal for people to reference or to download.

PA portal support is usually done by email or by MS Teams. Phone is an option, but usually not needed.

16 Attachment 1,

5.6.1.5. Will the contractor be required to provide on-site

preparation, i.e. location set-up, AV set-up and testing, GO/VIP speaker handling/support for some or all Meet Your Army events? Of the estimated 50 MYA events per year, what is the estimated number of events which will require on-site support by the contractor? Is it correct to assume travel for on-site support will be funded by the government under the JTR?

The Contractor will only provide onsite support for virtual events; the Contractor will not travel or be expected to help onsite with any in-person events.

17 Attachment 1, PWS

5.6.1.12. What is the estimated number of speeches, prepare

presentations and develop marketing products the contractor will be required to produce in support of outreach per year?

The estimated number of speeches, prepare presentations and develop marketing products is 30.

18 Attachment 1, PWS

5.6.1.8. The PWS requires the Contractor to coordinate all of the logistical details for each engagement in collaboration with the senior leader’s Public Affairs Officers to synchronize communication efforts prior to execution. Could the government please more clearly define the division of labor with the GO/VIPs PAO and staff?

The Contractor will provide the GO/VIP PAO & staff with the necessary information (i.e. itinerary, uniform, other VIPS attending etc) so the government staff can do their logistical coordination such as hotel and rental for in-person events. For virtual events, the Contractor will assist with the script writing along with all rehearsal with

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the GO/VIPs this includes providing platform being used, time, and uniform.

19 Solicitation Contract Order

C. Proposal Preparation Instructions, (a)

What does the government mean by a “sanitized” electronic copy?

See updated Addendum to 52.212-1 provided via Amendment 0001.

*The entire volume content (except for the cover page) should be sanitized from your company’s title, logo, and or any identifying markings.

20 Solicitation

C. Proposal Preparation Instructions, (c)

Regarding Volume II submittal, are 2 attachments of the volume to be provided?

Yes, two (2) copies of Volume II are to be submitted. One (1) copy should be sanitized from your company’s title, logo, and or any identifying markings.

21 Solicitation

C. Proposal Preparation Instructions, 3 (a), TAB D

Offerors are required to submit a completed copy of all Representation, Certifications, and Other Statements. As SAM contains offerors’ Representation and Certifications, would a screenshot or report showing an offeror’s current SAM registration requirement sufficient to meet this requirement? If not, would the government please provide the start and stop page numbers in the RFP containing Representation and Certifications language offeror’s must complete and include to meet this requirement. What “Other Statements” must offerors provide to satisfy this requirement?

A PDF version of the Offeror’s Representation/Certifications from SAM.gov is acceptable.

22 Solicitation Contract Order

c. Subfactor 4:

Management Controls/Quality Control Plan (QCP)

Subfactor 4, follows Subfactor 2 – is there a Subfactor 3? Factor 1 Technical Capability only contains three

(3) Subfactors:

- Technical Approach

- Staffing Plan/Key Personnel Qualifications and Experience

- Management Controls/Quality Control

Plan (QCP) See updated Addendum 52.212-1 and updated Addendum 52.212-2 provided via Amendment 0001.

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23 Solicitation

C. Proposal Preparation Instructions

What is the government’s preferred certification/representation format? Are printed versions from SAM.gov sufficient?

A PDF version of the Offeror’s Representations/Certifications from SAM.gov is acceptable.

24 Solicitation Contract Order

C. Proposal Preparation Instructions

What pages do the certification/representation requirements start and end on?

The Offeror needs to download the FAR Provisions 52.212- 3—Offeror Representations and Certification—Commercial Items and 52.222-22— Previous Contract and Compliance Reports from https://www.acquisition.gov/far/part-52 then fill out the blocks and file under Tab D in Volume 1.

There is no page limit to Volume 1 “General.” Or, the Offeror may submit a PDF version of the Offeror’s Representation/Certifications from SAM.gov.

25 PWS and Solicitation general question

Cost of industry tools. As referenced in Solicitation Pages 3, 5 and 7, and throughout the

PWS.

Regarding the tools, does the government possess (or intend to purchase) licenses for its contractor support, or is the vendor required to maintain those licenses?

No, it is the Contractor’s responsibility to maintain license within the period of performance for all tools and subscriptions. ODC CLIN will cover the cost of the licenses. Please, follow PWS 1.6.18 in reference to ODC, i.e. the Contractor shall submit Proposal to Contracting Officer Representative and the Contracting Officer to receive approval for all ODC before purchasing.

26 PWS and Solicitation general question

Cost of industry tools. As referenced in Solicitation Pages 3, 5 and 7, and throughout the

PWS.

Some licenses have a variable cost based upon the number of people or the volume of usage. Is the license cost an allowable ODC? Or must the cost for licenses to be embedded in the fully burdened billet rates?

Contractors shall submit a Proposal to the Contracting Officer Representative and the Contracting Officer to receive approval for all ODC before purchasing. Please follow PWS 1.6.18 in reference to ODC. ODC CLIN will cover the cost of the licenses.

27 Solicitation pg.

Subfactor 3 (missing?)

Is there a Subfactor 3? It is missing from this section. Factor 1 Technical Capability only contains three

(3) Subfactors:

- Technical Approach

- Staffing Plan/Key Personnel Qualifications and Experience

- Management Controls/Quality Control

Plan (QCP)

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See updated Addendum 52.212-1 and updated

28 Solicitation pgs. 41-43 of

A. Proposal Submittals and Inquiries

Page 41 (Section A.1) states the due TIME is 1:00 pm CDT. Page 43 (Section C.2.b) states that the due time is 8:00 am CDT.

The proposal due date and time will be on page 1 of the SF1449 at block 8. However, the discrepancy is noted and Addendum 52.212-1 has been updated and is provided via Amendment 0001 to 1:00 pm CDT.

29 PWS general question

Sample products Would the government clarify which PWS sections, if any, allow for the submission of sample products?

If allowed, what format should the samples be provided?

The solicitation does not ask for submission of sample products.

30 PWS pg. 6 Section 1.6.13.3 Contractor Personnel Qualifications.

“The Contractor shall provide resumes on all senior SMEs/ lead positions.”

Does the government recognize the Program Manager and Assistant PM as SMEs/lead positions? Are these the only two resumes required?

The resumes are required for the following three

(3) positions:

1) Program Manager

2) Alternate Program Manager/Lead

3) Senior Researcher/ Research & Assessment task lead

31 PWS pg. 6 Section 1.6.13.3

Personnel Qualifications.

“The Research and Assessment lead shall have a PhD with experience in social science or behavioral research.”

Can this candidate have a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree with an equitable amount of professional work experience?

No, the candidate shall have a PhD and the required experience.

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32 PWS pg. 6 Section 1.6.13.3

Personnel Qualifications.

“The Research and Assessment lead shall have a PhD with experience in social science or behavioral research.”

This requirement appears very targeted. Does the incumbent currently employ a person with these credentials?

No, the current Contractor does not employ a person with these credentials. This a new requirement. As part of PWS development and in support of OCPA transformation, having an assessments lead with these credentials is necessary to assist OCPA build robust and relevant fact-based and data-driven recommendations and strategies that support and inform approaches to communicate Army Senior Leader priorities and Army-wide initiatives.

33 PWS pg. 6 Section 1.6.13.3.

Personnel Qualifications. “… contractor personnel exclusively working in accordance with paragraphs 5.3.9.1, and 5.3.10.1, all other positions…”

There is no Section 5.3.10.1. Is the govt referring only to Section 5.3.10?

Correct, there is no section 5.3.10.1. The PWS paragraph numbering has been corrected to 5.3.8.1 and 5.3.9.1.

34 PWS pg. 6 Section 1.6.13.3.

Contractor Personnel Qualifications. “… for all other positions, a bachelor’s degree, from an accredited college or university in a communication-

Is on-the-job (OTJ) training sufficient? If not, what evidence is the gov’t requiring as proof of this education/ or training in strategic planning?

No, on-the-job training is not sufficient. The resumes shall contain the education, training and experience as per PWS 1.6.13.3.

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related discipline and education or training in strategic planning.”

35 PWS pg. 20 PWS 5.1 What amount of printing and production is not currently performed by APD or Army Graphics?

The Contractor does not do any printing work for OCPA and only prepares products for printing.

Contractor may advise OCPA planner on specifications for a print job with APD or Army Graphics.

Also, see the Q#A # 10.

36 PWS pg. 20 PWS 5.1 Over the past contract, what amount of ODC was spent to cover these services?

The ODC does not cover printing; the ODC only includes what is stated in PWS PAR 1.6.18.1. The Contractor does not do any printing work for OCPA and only prepares products for printing.

37 PWS pg. 20 Section 5.2.1.

Business Rules and Organizational Processes.

What is the scope for establishing common operating procedures Business Rules and Organizational Processes?

Is the scope for OCPA, HQDA inside the Pentagon, across the entire Army, or other?

The scope for establishing common operating procedures Business Rules and Organizational Processes would be for OCPA and HQDA initially, but any business practices would be implemented across the Army Communication Enterprise.

38 PWS pg. 20 Section 5.2.3. The Contractor shall identify technology solutions to enhance communication development (such as an enterprise project management tool), staff processes, collaboration, project

What tool(s) does the government currently utilize. What tools may have been identified but not yet utilized?

The Contractor shall identify technology solutions to enhance communication development as per

PWS PAR 5.2.3.

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management to generate a common operating picture and improved leader situational awareness.

39 PWS pg. 20 Section 5.2.4.

Business Rules and Organizational Processes. “The Contractor shall develop a dashboard to provide a public affairs common operating picture.”

What dashboard tools does Army authorize currently?

Are the dashboard tools intended to run on the NIPR, SIPR, or on a commercial platform external to the Army networks?

1) OCPA has used C2IE (Command and Control of the Information Environment) to report engagements but it does not inform communication strategy. The government currently does not have an online dashboard;

dashboard is a new requirement

The Contractor shall analyze and develop dashboard recommendations for OCPA leadership approval. The Contractor shall implement the dashboard developing while taking into accordance authorized tools by the CIO-G6 and the Joint service provider as per

PWS 5.2.4

2) This is an unclassified contract, so it will be NIPR.

40 PWS pg. 21 Section 5.3.2

Metrics and social media.

What software or applications does the government currently use to collect data and measure rates of impact?

The current Contractors use different applications and software. Contractors shall submit a Proposal to the Contracting Officer Representative and the Contracting Officer to receive approval for all ODC before purchasing. Please follow PWS 1.6.18 and 1.6.18.1 in reference to ODC.

41 PWS pg. 23 Section 5.3.16.

Communication

Which data monitoring and listening tools does the government currently use and/or maintain licenses for?

The current Contractors use different applications and software. Contractors shall submit a Proposal to the Contracting Officer Representative and the

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Research, Analysis and Evaluation

Contracting Officer to receive approval for all

42 PWS pg. 23 Section 5.3.16.

Research, Analysis and Evaluation

Which data monitoring and listening tools does the government currently use and/or maintain licenses for?

The current Contractors use different applications and software. Contractors shall submit a Proposal to the Contracting Officer Representative and the Contracting Officer to receive approval for all

43 PWS pg. 23 Section 5.3.16.

Research, Analysis and Evaluation.

Should the cost of these tools be incorporated into the LCAT rates, be paid as an ODC, or be paid by the government?

If the cost is represented as an ODC, does the government have a budget limit for costs associated with data monitoring and listening tools?

Contractors shall submit a Proposal to the Contracting Officer Representative and the Contracting Officer to receive approval for all ODC before purchasing. Please follow PWS 1.6.18 and 1.6.18.1 in reference to ODC. The will be a limit once the contract is awarded.

44 PWS pg. 26 Section 5.5.1. “The also manage the Public Affairs Portal.”

On what platform is the portal sitting today? The PA portal has already been built on SharePoint. The requirement is managing Content in the front end and some coding, but this is an HQDA SharePoint site already been set up and managed by PEO-Enterprise Information Systems.

It is on HQDA mainframe server and any tools/ software must be coordinated with Joint service provider (JSP).

45 PWS pg. 26 Section 5.5.1. “The also manage the Public Affairs Portal.”

What level of administrative rights would be required, and who will determine the rights that are assigned?

The OCPA will determine and assign the administrative rights.

46 PWS pg. 26 Section 5.5.1. “The Contractor shall also manage the

Is a license fee is required, and if so, is it provided by the Government or is the contractor required to pay/own/manage it?

No, there is no license fee for SharePoint. The Army owns the platform (SharePoint).

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Public Affairs Portal.”

47 PWS pg. 26 Section 5.5.1. “The Contractor shall also manage the Public Affairs Portal.”

Is there a governance policy or process currently in place? Yes, there is process currently in place. After the award, the Contractor will coordinate with Joint service provider (JSP). OCPA will provide a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) once contract is awarded.

48 PWS pg. 26 Section 5.5.4 Communications Playbook

What platform/format is the Communications Playbook? The monthly playbook is a PDF file, but the current Contractor uses InDesign to produce the communication product.

49 PWS pg. 26 Section 5.5.4

Playbook

Is the playbook a printed product, and if so, does the Government cover the cost of printing?

No, the playbook is not a printed product. The playbook is electronic and emailed to leaders and PAOs. No printing necessary.

50 PWS pg. 26 Section 5.5.4

Playbook

Does the playbook require graphic designer support? Yes, it is a combination of messaging and graphics and laid out in a professional way.

51 PWS pg. 27 Section 5.5.6.6. The Contractor shall also provide daily functional support to SharePoint users who have issues accessing the site.

Does the Government have a required response time expectation?

The response time is expected within 24 hours with the exception if an issue comes in over the weekend, then the response time is by morning of the next duty day.

52 PWS pg. 27 Section 5.5.6.6. The Contractor shall also provide daily functional support to SharePoint users who have issues accessing the site.

How many administrators will be licensed for this level of support?

SharePoint does not require any license, since the Government owns it. The Government will ensure the responsible Contractor(s) has access to the SharePoint site and/or email address to respond to issues.

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53 PWS pg. 27 Communication Product Development

Army Public Affairs Portal/Website Management. The requirement is managing the content in the front end and having some familiarity with SharePoint. It’s on HQDA mainframe server and any updates must be coordinated with Joint Service Provider (JSP). It works with all Microsoft software, the browser(s) and Adobe. No, there is no 24/7/365 maintenance and upkeep requirement

54 PWS pg. 30 Section 5.8 Exhibit Management.

Based on the frequency of exhibit updates, and the dates when each was last refreshed, should our support and cost estimates assume one complete refresh of each of the three

(3) managed exhibits, in addition to regular maintenance?

Yes, the proposal shall include the management of all three (3) exhibits.

55 PWS pg. 31 Section 5.8.2.3.

Exhibit Design Updates and Approval Requirement.

How many exhibits currently exist and require OCPA support?

Currently, there are three (3) exhibits.

56 PWS pg. 33 Section 6.1 Applicable Publications

Who from the Army will serve as the compliance representative to ensure that efforts remain within currently established DOD and Army regulations?

The compliance representatives are: the Contracting Officer Representative (COR) and the Government Program Manager.

57 PWS pg. 35 Technical Exhibit 1: Performance Objective Table

It appears that the rows in the table have been lost making it difficult to align the performance measures, standards, thresholds, surveillance and corrective actions with the different PRS# numbers. Would OCPA reinstate the row demarcation so that it is clear what goes with what?

No, all the performance measure/ indicator applies to the performance Objective., i.e. PRS # 1, 2 and 3 have the same the performance measure/ indicators.

Also, PRS # 5, 6 and 7 have the same the performance measure/ indicators. Additionally, PRS # 8 and 9 have the same the performance measure/ indicators.

58 PWS pg. 35 Technical Exhibit 1: Performance Objectives: PRS#1

The last sentence (scope) is incomplete. “The primary scope of this Army communication support services effort is to accurately and effectively support Army communication through____.” Would the government provide an update to complete this sentence?

PRS #1 has been edited, Also, see Para 1.4.1 through 1.4.9 in the PWS.

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59 PWS pgs. 39-

Technical Exhibit 2: Deliverables Schedule

Since this Army Communications support contract is FFP and each Task can have multiple types of deliverables with multiple number of each deliverable, would OCPA associate a CLIN number with each deliverable so that the offer can accurately account for and price the work.

All deliverables will be part of the one CLIN for labor support.

27 5.5.6. Army Public Affairs Portal/Website Management. The Contractor shall customize SharePoint sites

How many Sharepoint sites are included in this effort? There is only one (1) SharePoint site.

61 27 5.5.6.2. The update database/website accessibility and provide technical administration based on Government needs and oversight.

Where is the line of responsibility for technical administration of the database and website (e.g. hardware, backups, failover, availability)? Please provide sufficient technical documentation to respond to this Task Area

The OCPA will determine and assign the administrative rights to the Contractor after the award.

The PA portal has already been built on SharePoint. The requirement is managing Content in the front end and some coding but this is an HQDA SharePoint site already been set up and managed by PEO-EIS. It is on the HQDA mainframe server.

62 27 5.5.6.3. The monitor usage and provide the OCPA statistical feedback

Will OCPA provide a tool to monitor usage and provide statistics? How is this currently done?

This is a SharePoint site so contractor can pull reports from SharePoint settings to see how many visitors visit the PA portal and/or pull certain content.

63 27 5.5.6.6. The Contractor shall also provide daily functional support to SharePoint users who have issues accessing the site.

Is this during regular business hours? Yes, daily functional support to SharePoint users who have issues accessing the site is provided during regular business hours.

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64 4 1.6.4 Notification is normally by way of local radio or TV stations.

Information concerning other methods of notification will be provided by the Government.

Please explain this notification – does this pertain to delivery of the 0530 daily media report?

Yes, this pertains to delivery of the 0530 daily media report.

65 4 1.6.5 The work to be performed under this contract will be performed at a Government provided space and at an offsite Contractor location.

Telecommuting or “work at home” is not authorized.

Please clarify the reference to “an offsite Contractor location.” Does this rule apply to all staff, regardless of days/hours worked?

All work performed will be at the Pentagon with the space available, and also at the Contractor’s location once the contract has been awarded. It is not authorized to do this work in a different location unless Telework is authorized due to COVID and IAW PWS PAR 1.6.5.1.

66 7 1.6.13.3 The Research and Assessment lead shall have a PhD with experience in social science or behavioral research.

The government has identified labor hours for more than one Lead position. Do multiple employees need a PhD?

No, only personnel that was identified to perform the Communication research, analysis and assessment task, Research and assessment to complete Par 5.3. In addition, PWS 1.6.13.3 “The Research and Assessment lead shall have a PhD with experience in social science or behavioral research”.

67 20 5.2.4. The develop a dashboard to provide a public affairs common operating picture

Does some version of this dashboard already exist or will it need to build from scratch?

The government currently does not have an online dashboard; dashboard is a new requirement. OCPA has used C2IE (Command and Control of the Information Environment) to report engagements but it does not inform communication strategy.

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that provides information across the organization and informs communication strategy.

The Contractor shall analyze and develop dashboard recommendations for OCPA leadership approval. The Contractor shall implement the dashboard developing while taking into

Joint service provider as per PWS 5.2.4.

68 21 5.3.1. The advise and assist the OCPA’s divisions with primary and secondary research to inform communication approaches and planning across the full spectrum of media and community outreach activities.

The research shall include audience analysis; qualitative and quantitative analysis; and recommendations based on findings.

Will this primary research be outsourced or performed using existing government resources?

This research needs to be accomplished with existing government resources and/or subscriptions purchased by the contractor using Other Direct Costs funds (under ODC CLIN). The Contractor should be able to perform this task by using industry-recognized software to support traditional media and social media data collection, analysis;

assessment and evaluation (see PWS 1.6.18.1).

69 22 5.3.8 Monday reports will encapsulate coverage from 1800 on Friday through 0400 Monday morning.

Please clarify the extent of duplicate coverage in the Monday report that covers the weekend, considering there are also dedicated Saturday and Sunday morning report requirements.

These are two separate requirements. The senior leadership wants a roll up of the weekend reporting to be included in the Monday report. Please follow the requirements for PWS 5.3.8. 1. for the weekend reports.

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Attachment 3 Pricing Prime contractors do not have access to subcontractors Indirect pricing elements (fringe, G&A, OH) on spreadsheets as to protect company proprietary information. Can subcontractor rates be shown as fully burdened rates and noted that they are subcontractor provided?

Yes, the subcontractor rates can be shown as fully burdened rates and noted that they are subcontractor provided.

71 n/a Due Date Please confirm due date and time as it is listed as 8 am in the RFP and noon in the PWS.

The proposal due date and time will be on page 1 of the SF1449 at block 8. However, the discrepancy is noted and Addendum 52.212-1 has

72 n/a On site Aside from being able to seat 11 personnel on site, are there requirements for which personnel the govt requires on site? Are there current Covid restriction onsite? If an offsite customer site is closed due to covid, can employees work from home?

Yes, the Government will authorize teleworking as per PWS 1.6.5.1.

73 n/a Due Date Due to the Labor Day holiday, Can the due date be extended to Sept 14?

See Amendment 0001 for the due date.

74 1, 41 SF 1449;

Instructions

The SF 1449, Block 8 lists the due date and time as 08:00 AM 07 Sep 2021; the instructions (Section A.2) lists the due date and time as 01:00 P.M. CENTRAL DAYLIGHT TIME on Tuesday, 7 September 2021; and the instructions (Section C.2.b) lists the due date and time as Tuesday 7 September 2021 08:00 A.M. (CDT).

The proposal due date and time will be on page 1 of the SF1449 at block 8. However, the discrepancy is noted and Addendum 52.212-1 has been updated and is provided via Amendment 0001 to 1:00 pm CDT.

75 PWS p. 21 5.3.

Communication Research, Analysis and Evaluation

In regard to the “primary and secondary research” requested “to inform communication approaches and planning across the full spectrum of media and community outreach activities” can the government provide additional details such as required research tools, availability of target audience contact information, expectations for formal vs

This research needs to be accomplished with existing government resources and/or subscriptions purchased by the contractor using Other Direct Costs funds (under ODC CLIN).. The contractor should be able to perform this task by using industry-recognized software to support traditional

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anecdotal research, opportunity to hire outside research firms etc.

media and social media data collection, analysis;

assessment and evaluation (see 1.6.18.1).

76 PWS p. 21-22 5.3.

Research, Analysis and Evaluation -- Sections 5.3.6 –

5.3.10 regarding Media Analysis

In Sections 5.3.6. – 5.3.10. regarding Media Analysis, only section 5.3.8 states that the report is “cross-referenced with the DoD Morning News of Note.” Are other media analysis reports that are developed expected to be cross-referenced against any other media analysis done by other areas of OCPA or DoD?

No, no other media analysis reports that are developed expected to be cross-referenced against any other media analysis done by other areas of OCPA or DoD.

77 PPQ pg 6 of 6 Sample Questionnaire Cover Letter

The services required are to support the Office of the Chief of Public Affairs (OCPA). The service encompasses dining facility functions, food preparation during designated meal periods, sanitation of cooking equipment and kitchen areas.

See updated Attachment 4 – correct Past Performance Questionnaire provided via Amendment 0001.

41 and 43 Section A and C RFP has conflicting due date times. 7 Sept at 8AM CDT

vs. 1PM CDT

The proposal due date and time will be on page 1 of the SF1449 at block 8. However, the discrepancy is noted and Addendum 52.212-1 has

79 47 Section C, Factor 1 Subfactor 3 is missing Factor 1 Technical Capability only contains three

(3) Subfactors:

- Technical Approach

- Staffing Plan/Key Personnel Qualifications and Experience

- Management Controls/Quality Control

Plan (QCP) See updated Addendum 52.212-1 and updated

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80 52 Section C, Factor 2 May the government clarify the treatment of past performance efforts of major or critical subcontractors, to include the definition of major/critical as well as any minimums or criteria around the acceptance of these subcontractor past performance efforts.

Major subcontractor is the one who completes majority, i.e. more than 50% of the contract.

Critical subcontractor is the one who completes the critical tasks of the PWS.

81 PWS Page 4 PWS 1.6.5 Does the government have the intention of modifying the Place of Performance to allow for limited telecommuting in light of the current pandemic response?

The Government will authorize teleworking as per PWS 1.6.5.1.

82 PWS Page 7 PWS 16.13.3 “The five (5) years of experience for all other positions must have been achieved within the last ten (10) years.” – This requirement is overly burdensome as it applies to all positions and will necessitate higher rates for all positions

The Government will not change this requirement for the experience.

83 PWS Page 7 PWS 16.13.3 “The Contractor shall provide resumes on all senior SMEs/ lead positions.” – This contrasts with RFP requirement to provide resumes for only 2 Key positions.

No, the resumes are required for the following three (3) positions:

1) Program Manager

2) Alternate Program Manager/Lead

84 44 Section C, 2 Proposal Format

A Technical Capability maximum of 75 pages for a requirement of this size will enable a high-level of detail to be provided, however the due date of Sep 7th is not the standard time allotted for a proposal of this size. Suggest pushing due date, or decreasing page count.

The proposal does not have to have 75 pages (excluding the resumes); the proposal shall not to exceed 75 pages (excluding the resumes).

85 53 Section C, Factor 2 May the government clarify the usage of Past Performance Questionnaire as far as due date and when they are accepted vs. CPARs? Assuming they are due on Sept 7th?

Past Performance Questionnaire should be provided no later than the due date of the Proposal stated in Amendment 0001.

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RFP pg. 47 c) Volume III – Past Performance

Can the government please clarify the requirement for a past performance questionnaire? The form is included with the solicitation package but there are no further instructions in the RFP.

See updated Addendum 52.212-1 provided via Amendment 0001.

**Past Performance Questionnaire – See Attachment 4 - Past Performance Questionnaire.

The offeror shall forward a copy of the Past Performance Questionnaire for each of the contracts identified on the specific relevant contract reference to the points of contact responsible for monitoring performance. The points of contact shall return the questionnaires directly via email to the Contracting Officer and Contract Specialist at the following email addresses:

salameya.paulouskaya2.civ@mail.mil and karina.s.haddix.civ@mail.mil no later than the proposal due date. Questionnaires not submitted directly to the Contracting Officer or Contract Specialist will not be reviewed and evaluated. The information contained in the properly executed and returned questionnaires will be used to evaluate the offeror’s past performance. New entities that have no past customers shall annotate on the Summary Page that they have no previous clients.

87 PWS pg. 20 and Pricing

5.2 Business Rules Can the government clarify whether any portion of the ODC budget will be applied to the development of the dashboard?

The cost of the dashboard will be covered by ODC CLIN. After the award, IAW PWS 1.6.18 in reference to ODC, the Contractor shall submit Proposal to Contracting Officer Representative (COR) and the Contracting Officer to receive approval for all ODC before purchasing. This should also be coordinated with Joint Server Provider if it’s allowed on HQDA network.

As of the labor for the developing the dashboard, it shall be included into the CLINs 0001, 0002, 1001 and 2001 “OCPA Communication Services Support” (FFP).

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88 PWS pg. 20 5.2 Business Rules Is the dashboard designed to replace any of the existing knowledge management or collaboration platforms currently in use by OCPA?

No, this is a new requirement. OCPA has used C2IE (Command and Control of the Information Environment) to report engagements but it does not inform communication strategy. Government expects the contractor to present some recommendations for a dashboard or format to present this information.

89 PWS pg. 21 5.2 Business Rules Can the government please list what social listening tools are currently in use? Are these tools government or contractor furnished?

Meltwater and Sprinkler are primary tools. We also use TV Eyes, so the Contractor should make an assessment of additional tools needed for media analysis. It’s the Contractor responsibility to maintain licenses within the period of performance for all tools and subscriptions. The cost of the licenses will be covered by ODC CLIN. Please, follow PWS 1.6.18 in reference to ODC, i.e. the Contractor shall submit a Proposal to Contracting Officer Representative (COR) and the Contracting Officer to receive approval for all ODC before purchasing

90 PWS pg. 21 5.3 Communication Research

Can the government please list what media monitoring tools are currently in use? Are these tools government or contractor furnished?

The current contractors use different applications and software. Please, follow PWS 1.6.18 in reference to ODC, i.e. the Contractor shall submit Proposal to Contracting Officer Representative (COR) and the Contracting Officer to receive approval for all ODC before purchasing.

91 PWS pg. 24 5.3.16.8 Can the government please clarify the requirement “contractor shall provide social media solution and services…for existing social media solution and other social media tools” Can the government provide more context on the need?

PWS 5.3.16.8 has been deleted.

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92 PWS pg. 27 and Pricing

5.6 Army Outreach Is the travel budget specified in the Pricing spreadsheet intended to support the travel associated with the Meet Your Army program?

Other than local travel, no travel is required for this contract, see PWS 1.6.17. The Pricing Matrix will be modified to reflect this change.

93 Pricing Factor 3 Price does not specifically address subcontractors.

Can the government please advise if subcontractors are to submit separate sealed Attachment 3 TEP price files to the Government to support their prices or rates or only the prime contractor is required to submit this information?

1) The prime contractor is to submit the break down rates.

2) The rates for the subcontractors can be as fully burden rates. If the subcontractors’ rates cannot be released, then for the pricing just state the total amount of subcontracted for the labor.

3) The subcontracted amount shall be IAW 52.219-14 Limitations on Subcontracting.

94 RFP pg. 49 d) Volume IV - Price

Can the government confirm whether newer versions of Excel are acceptable for submission or is 2007 or earlier mandatory?

Newer versions of Excel are acceptable for submission.

95 PWS pg. 27 5.5.6 Can the government confirm whether its databases are built on a SharePoint platform? If so, what version is it currently using? If not, what knowledge management platforms are currently in use?

Yes, the dashboard has already been built on SharePoint. The requirement is managing Content in the front end so familiarity with SharePoint is useful. This is an HQDA SharePoint site already been set up and managed by PEO-EIS. It’s on HQDA mainframe server and must be coordinated with Joint Service Provider (JSP).

96 PWS pg. 43 Technical Exhibit 3 The current LOE estimate is based on 2080 hours. Should all offerors use 2080 as a basis for their price?

2080 hours are just estimated for the annual available hours per a full time employee. The Offerors shall use their own base.

41 and 43 Proposal Submittal and Inquiries Section A. 1 and 2

Section A.1. states: “closing date which is NOT LATE THAN 01:00 P.M. CENTRAL DAYLIGHT TIME on Tuesday, 7 September 2021

Section A.2(b) states “closing date of this solicitation which is Tuesday 7 September 2021 08:00 A.M. (CDT).

The proposal due date and time will be on page 1 of the SF1449 at block 8. However, the discrepancy is noted and Addendum 52.212-1 has

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98 43 and 44 Proposal

Preparation Instructions Section C 2(a) and (c)

Please define/explain a “sanitized” electronic copy of a proposal

See updated Addendum to 52.212-1 provided via Amendment 0001.

*The entire volume content (except for the cover page) should be sanitized from company’s title, logo, and or any identifying markings.

99 47 Proposal

Instructions Section 3 (b) (2)

Factor 1: Technical Capability includes Subfactor 1, 2 and

4. Subfactor 4: Management Controls/Quality Control

(QCP)

Evaluation Criteria on Page 50 states:

Subfactor 1: Technical Approach

Subfactor 2: Staffing Plan/Key Personnel Qualifications and Experience

Subfactor 3: Management Controls/Quality Control Plan

(QCP)

Can the Government please confirm the Subfactors.

Yes, the Government confirms that Factor 1 Technical Capability only contains three (3) Subfactors.

100 49 Proposal Preparation Instructions

The pricing matrix requires build-ups. Please confirm sealed pricing will be required for subcontractors?

1) The prime contractor is to submit the break down rates.

2) The rates for the subcontractors can be as fully burden rates. If the subcontractors’ rates cannot be released, then for the pricing just state the total amount of subcontracted for the labor.

3) The subcontracted amount shall be IAW 52.219-14 Limitations on Subcontracting.

101 6 and 7 Performance Work Statement (PWS) Sections 1.6.13.1 and 1.6.13.3

Will the Government confirm which positions resumes are required for?

the resumes are required for the following three (3) positions:

1) Program Manager

2) Alternate Program Manager/Lead

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102 20 Performance Work

Section 5.2.4

Does the government anticipate a dashboard separate from

– or integrated with – the current C2IE dashboard provided by DoD PA?

Since this is a new requirement, the answer is unknown, The Contractor will have to do the assessment and then to propose s solution for the dashboard. OCPA has used C2IE (Command and Control of the Information Environment) to report engagements but it does not inform communication strategy. The Government expects the contractor to present some recommendations for a dashboard or format to present this information.

103 23 Performance Work

Section 5.3.16

Is the Vendor supposed to provide each of the tools listed;

or use one or some of those listed?

OCPA identified tools that are currently being…