A.07.23_Strategic_Communications_Solicitation_20161222.pdf

Combined Synopsis/Solicitation

Blanket Purchase Agreement

For

National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA) Next NGA West (N2W) Program

Strategic Communication Services

W912DQ-17-T-7002

This is a combined synopsis/solicitation for commercial items prepared in accordance with the format in

Subpart 12.6, as supplemented with additional information included in this notice. This announcement constitutes the only solicitation; price lists are being requested and a separate solicitation will not be issued. The Government reserves the right to cancel this combined synopsis/solicitation at any time.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Kansas City District has a need for strategic communication services for the

National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA) Next NGA West (N2W) Program located in St. Louis, Missouri.

The Kansas City District intends to award multiple Blanket Purchase Agreements (BPAs) from this combined synopsis/solicitation to the offerors that provide the best value to the government. Best value will be determined by evaluating price and, as applicable, technical. Specifically, the government will review the contractor’s price list/wage rates to determine whether it provides fair and reasonable pricing for the items submitted, and, as applicable, will review the technical information submitted to determine whether the materials offered satisfy the requirements identified in the scope of work.

This solicitation shall be a Women-Owned Small Business Set-Aside; the associated North American

Industry Classification System (NAICS) code is 541820, Public Relations Agencies and the business size standard is

$15 million dollars. As needed, these services will be acquired by placing calls against a BPA. The Contractor is responsible for supplying and delivering all services listed under each BPA call to the Project Manager and

Contracting Officer Representative.

The total ordering shared capacity under each BPA shall not exceed $2,000,000 and no call issued under any of the BPAs shall exceed the call limit of $150,000. Each BPA shall be valid for a period of five (5) years or when the total dollar amount of all calls issued under the BPA reaches the agreement limit listed above, whichever comes first. The government will be obligated only to the extent of authorized purchases actually made under the

BPA, not upon establishment of the BPA itself.

Offerors submitting prices should refer to the Technical Exhibit 3 (estimated price rate data for key personnel) attachment for a list of labor categories needed to support the requirement. Prices are to be listed in the format provided in the Price Sheet. Prices should be listed per unit requested (e.g. hours, daily and weekly rate, etc.)

and should NOT include any fees for delivery. Delivery locations and fees will be negotiated at the placement of each call. If an offeror does not wish to provide a price for one or more of the labor categories listed in the Price

List, the offeror should write "Not Available" in place of the price for that particular labor category. Prices submitted shall remain good through 31 December 2017. Subsequently, prices will be updated annually and remain good for a period of one year.

Offerors must include a completed copy of FAR 52.212-3, Offeror Representations and Certifications –

Commercial Items, with its quote. This provision is included in this combined synopsis/solicitation. If the offeror has up-to-date representations and certifications in the System for Award Management (www.SAM.gov) website, then this completed provision is not required to be submitted with the offeror’s quote.

The required commercial item clauses will be included in the BPA and apply only to orders issued under the BPA.

Prices are to be submitted to SFC Christina M. Kidwell at christina.m.kidwell@usace.army.mil by 2:00 PM

Central Standard Time Tuesday, January 17, 2017. No facsimile submittals will be accepted.

VENDORS INTERESTED IN RESPONDING TO THIS RFQ MUST SUBMIT THEIR RESPONSE

WITH THE FOLLOWING ITEMS:

-CAPABILITIES STATEMENT

-PAST PERFORMANCE (5 YRS WORTH) TO INCLUDE PROJECT TYPE, NAME AND MAGNITUDE

-RESUMES (maximum 1 page per employee)

- PRICE LIST (TE3)

The total package shall not exceed 15 pages in length. Any questions regarding this synopsis/solicitation must be submitted by e-mail to the point of contact above before 11 January 2017.

If you have questions about Government procurements in general or need assistance in the preparation of your quote, a local Procurement Technical Assistance Center (PTAC) may be able to help. The Procurement

Technical Assistance Program was authorized by Congress in 1985 in an effort to expand the number of businesses capable of participating in the Government marketplace. To locate a PTAC near you, go to http://www.aptac-us.org

TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF BPA

Per the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) 13.303-3(a), the following terms and conditions are mandatory:

1. Description of Agreement: The supplier shall furnish all services if and when requested by the

Contracting Officer during the specified performance period of 31 January 2017 – 30 January 2022 and within the shared capacity’s stipulated aggregate amount of TWO MILLION DOLLARS AND ZERO CENTS

($2,000,000.00).

2. Extent of Obligation: The Government is obligated only to the extent of authorized purchases actually made under the BPA.

3. Purchase Limitation: The dollar limitation for each individual call under this

BPA is ONE HUNDRED FIFTY THOUSAND DOLLARS AND NO CENTS ($150,000.00).

4. Individuals Authorized to Purchase Under the BPA: A list of individuals authorized to purchase under this BPA, identified either by title of position, by name of individual or organizational component, will be furnished to the supplier by the contracting officer.

5. Delivery Tickets: All shipments under this agreement shall be accompanied by delivery tickets or sales slips that shall contain the following minimum information:

a. Name of supplier.

b. BPA number.

c. Date of purchase

d. Purchase number.

e. Itemized list of supplies furnished.

f. Quantity, unit price, and extension of each item, less applicable discounts (unit prices and extensions need not be shown when incompatible with the use of automated systems, provided that the invoice is itemized to show this information).

g. Date of delivery or shipment.

6. Invoices: A summary invoice shall be submitted at least monthly or upon expiration of this BPA, whichever occurs first, for all deliveries made during a billing period, identifying the delivery tickets covered therein, stating their total dollar value, and supported by receipt copies of the delivery tickets. Each invoice and/or invoice item (if more than one) will clearly state the BPA call number given by the Contracting Officer at the time of the call.

Performance Work Statement (PWS)

NGA/N2W Strategic Communications Services

Blanket Purchasing Agreement

20 December 2016

PART 1: GENERAL INFORMATION

1. GENERAL: The Blanket Purchase Agreement (BPA) awarded under this solicitation will be for non-personal services to support the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ Kansas City District strategic communications efforts for the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA) new campus construction (N2W) effort in St. Louis, Missouri. The Government shall not exercise any supervision or control over the Contractor(s) and any agreement service providers performing the services herein. Such agreement service providers shall be accountable solely to the Contractor(s) who, in turn is responsible to the Government.

1.1 Description of Services/Introduction: Work will be executed under BPA Calls using Performance Work Statements (PWSs) specific to that particular call. Each Call will define the requirements of the Contractor. The description of work stated herein provides a general understanding of the contractor functions to be performed.

Individual Calls will contain the specific requirements. Technical requirements described herein in no way limit the activities that may be required under the terms of this agreement. The Contractor(s) shall provide all personnel, equipment, supplies, facilities, transportation, tools, materials, supervision, and other items and non-personal services necessary to perform strategic communications, education, outreach, and dissemination services as defined in each Performance Work Statement. The Contractor(s) shall perform to the standards.

1.2 Background: The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) is a Federal Agency within the Department of Defense (DOD) whose is responsible for the construction of the N2W program on behalf of NGA. The new N2W facility will replace the current NGA Campus West facilities located at 2nd St. and Arsenal St. in St. Louis, Missouri.

The Government has tentatively planned for construction to occur in the FY18 through FY22 timeframe. The site is approximately 99 acres and located approximately two miles from the Gateway Arch to the north of the St. Louis central business district. The setting for campus development is nested within mostly residential and commercial areas. Four urban residential neighborhoods will be directly impacted. Urban arterial streets bound the site to the south and west, while smaller collector streets parallel the north and east property lines. The City of St. Louis has relocated just over 100 property owners to help prepare the site for environmental remediation, cultural resources testing, site demolition, and abatement. Stakeholders on this program include:

National Geospatial Intelligence Agency and its employees

USACE employees and Contractor(s)s supporting the construction project

The City of St. Louis

Members of Congress and local elected officials

Residents of the St. Louis Metro Area

Strategic communications are vital to conveying USACE’s construction strategies and outputs, effective practices, technical assistance resources, research activities and other policies and activities to its various stakeholders and the general public related to the development of the N2W. USACE utilizes numerous outreach and communications strategies to inform and engage their stakeholders in all phases of its work from research and policy development to the dissemination of information about effective policies and practices. By involving stakeholders, and intermediary groups that represent or work with stakeholders (e.g. professional and business associations), USACE ensures that the policies and practices developed and promoted are responsive to the stakeholders’ needs and effective in improving employment opportunities for people with disabilities.

Recognizing that misperceptions about government construction, USACE has made it a priority to work to counter these low expectations and negative perceptions. Although USACE’s mission is to provide quality work and construction to its customers and stakeholders, USACE also wants to foster goodwill and activities focused specifically on changing attitudes and ultimately perceptions to be good neighbors during construction and creating a positive environment prior to NGA’s opening and arrival. The public awareness activities utilize a variety of communications strategies such as public service announcements and other video and film production, web-based services (e.g., websites, social media, email outreach, webinars), electronic newsletters, materials development and distribution, presentations and exhibits at meetings, conferences, tradeshows and other events.

All of USACE’s policy-focused teams conduct public engagement and outreach activities around their respective policy issues, utilizing a wide variety of communication strategies to do so. USACE N2W Outreach Team coordinates with these teams and with the NWK Public Affairs Office (PAO) to ensure message consistency within USACE and in support of the USACE mission. N2W Outreach Team is responsible for providing communications support for the N2W Project Delivery Team (PDT) and other USACE senior leadership and assists in preparing (i.e., writing and editing) briefings, other reports and materials used for planning, management, outreach and reporting.

N2W Outreach Team also coordinates with PAO to respond to media inquiries and assists in preparing N2W PDT or others for interviews and other communications activities such as social media, blogs, press releases and presentations. N2W Outreach Team oversees speechwriting and the creation of materials for publication under the name of members of USACE senior leadership. N2W Outreach Team manages the content on USACE’s N2W website, which contains regularly updated information about all of USACE’s efforts related to the construction of N2W and serves as a portal to other websites such as those maintained by its various technical assistance centers.

Each of these initiatives is ongoing and recurring and requires continuity from one year to the next through the duration of the N2W construction project. The successful Contractor(s) needs to possess communications expertise, be familiar with the intricacies of St. Louis Metropolitan area and political structure/officials, as well as understand the landscape and the nuances of communicating with its varied stakeholders, specifically the surrounding communities that will be affected.

1.3 Objectives: USACE is seeking a Contractor(s) to provide ongoing support to its strategic communications activities described in Section 1.2 (Background) as well as to new communications efforts that may arise to further USACE’s mission of constructing N2W.

Although a number of communications activities are well established and ongoing, USACE is also always seeking to find new and better ways of reaching its target audiences with information. Thus, USACE is seeking a Contractor(s) with the expertise to develop content for a wide variety of communications material, to advise about new or different communications tools and tactics, and to help design and implement public awareness campaigns.

1.4 Scope: The Contractor(s) will provide expertise and perform tasks for USACE to support ongoing and future strategic communications projects/initiatives such as those described in the Background Section 1.2 of this PWS (i.e., N2W Outreach Team work) specifically in the St. Louis Metropolitan Area. USACE will issue BPA Calls to support each of these current projects/initiatives as well as new ones that arise during the course of this BPA provided the requirements fit within the scope of tasks described in Part 5 Specific Tasks. Each BPA Call will delineate the particular combination of tasks to be procured from among those included in Part 5.

To accomplish the strategic communications and outreach goals the Contractor(s) will be expected to work collaboratively with USACE and various stakeholders. The Contractor(s) will also work with USACE to identify measures of success and collect data to demonstrate the reach and impact of the strategic communications initiatives supported through this agreement.

1.5 Period of Performance: The period of performance shall begin at the date of award and shall be for one (1) Base Year of 12 months and five (4) 12-month option years.

1.6 General Information

1.6.1 Quality Control: Contractor Quality Control is the means by which the Contractor ensures that the work, to include that of subcontractors and suppliers, complies with the requirements of the agreement. The control shall be adequate to cover all tasks and activities. The Contractor is responsible for quality control and shall establish and maintain an effective quality control system. The Contractor(s) shall develop and maintain an effective quality control program to ensure Contractor(s) services are performed in accordance with this PWS and that Contractor(s) performance is in compliance with the requirements of the contract. The Contractor(s) shall develop and implement procedures to identify, prevent and ensure non-recurrence of services below the acceptable level. These procedures shall be documented in the Contractor(s)’s Quality Control Plan (QCP). At a minimum, the Contractor(s)’s quality control plan shall address its methodology/procedures to be utilized in achieving the Government’s objective within acceptable levels of quality as outlined in the Performance Standards Summary at Technical Exhibit 1 (TE1). After acceptance of the quality control plan the Contractor(s) shall receive the Contracting Officer’s (KO’s) acceptance in writing of any proposed change to his QC system.

1.6.2 Quality Assurance: The Government shall monitor and measure the Contractor(s)’s performance utilizing a Quality Assurance Surveillance Plan (QASP) to determine if services provided are satisfactorily performed and meet the requirements of the PWS. A variety of methods of surveillance may be used by the COR including 100% inspection, random sampling, and customer feedback.

1.6.3 Recognized Holidays: (29 CFR 4.174 is applicable for each established BPA)

New Year’s Day Labor Day

Martin Luther King Jr.’s Birthday Columbus Day

President’s Day Veteran’s Day

Memorial Day Thanksgiving Day

Independence Day Christmas Day

1.6.4 Hours of Operation: The Contractor(s) must at all times maintain an adequate work force for the uninterrupted performance of all tasks defined within this PWS. The Contractor(s) is required to continue performance of work unless otherwise directed in writing by the KO to withhold or discontinue performance.

1.6.5 Place of Performance: The majority of tasks will be performed on the Contractor(s)’s work site. In performing tasks under this PWS, the Contractor(s) may also be required to provide services within the greater St.

Louis Metropolitan area, another federal building, or other location as designated by the KO and/or COR.

1.6.6 Type of Agreement: The Government will establish several Blanket Purchasing Agreements in which Firm- Fixed-Price BPA Calls will be competed amongst all established BPAs.

1.6.7 Physical Security: The Contractor(s) shall be responsible for safeguarding all Government equipment, information and property provided for Contractor(s) use. At the close of each work period, equipment, and materials shall be secured.

1.6.8 Post Award Conference/Periodic Progress Meetings: The Contractor(s) agrees to attend any post award conference convened by the contracting activity or contract administration office in accordance with Federal Acquisition Regulation Subpart 42.5. The KO, COR, and other Government personnel, as appropriate, may meet periodically with the Contractor(s) to review the Contractor(s)'s performance. At these meetings the KO will apprise the Contractor(s) of how the Government views the Contractor(s)'s performance and the Contractor(s) will apprise the Government of problems, if any, being experienced. Appropriate action shall be taken to resolve outstanding issues. These meetings shall be at no additional cost to the Government.

1.6.9 Contracting Officer Representative (COR): The COR will be identified by separate letter. The COR monitors all technical aspects of the agreement and BPA calls to include assisting in contract administration. The COR is authorized to perform the following functions: assure that the Contractor(s) performs the technical requirements of the agreement; perform inspections necessary in connection with BPA/BPA calls performance; maintain written and oral communications with the Contractor(s) concerning technical aspects of the BPA/BPA calls; issue written interpretations of technical requirements, including Government drawings, designs, specifications; monitor Contractor(s)'s performance and notify both the KO and Contractor(s) of any deficiencies, and provide site entry of Contractor(s) personnel. A letter of designation issued to the COR, a copy of which is sent to the Contractor(s), states the responsibilities and limitations of the COR, especially with regard to changes in cost or price, estimates or changes in delivery dates. The COR is not authorized to change any of the terms and conditions of the resulting BPA call.

1.6.10 Point of Contact for Notifications

All communications regarding execution of this agreement shall be made through the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Kansas City District Contracting Officer. Contact information will be provided at the time of award.

1.6.11 Key Personnel:

The Contractor(s) must provide a sufficient number of staff who can perform the functional responsibilities and meet the qualification requirements of individual BPA call as written. Although the position titles may be different than those listed below, and the functional responsibilities may be distributed differently (i.e., one position may perform multiple functions or several positions may share functions), the successful contractors must, at a minimum have key personnel available to assign to subsequent USACE BPA call who, in some combination possess the qualifications listed below and are able to fulfill all of the functional responsibilities and perform each of the tasks described in Part 5 of this PWS. Although other personnel may also be assigned to perform the tasks of each BPA call, the personnel functions listed below (excluding the Special Events Coordinator) are considered key personnel by the Government.

POSITION TITLE/ FUNCTIONAL

RESPONSIBILITY

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

1. Project Director – responsible for providing overall direction of projects and ensuring successful completion of contractual work plan.

This individual, or designated alternate, will have full authority to act on behalf of the Contractor(s) and serve as the direct interface between the Contractor(s) and the Government regarding the performance of the work and all contractual matters including informing the KO and USACE N2W Outreach Team of any situations impacting BPA/BPA call’s performance including changes to key personnel.

5 years’ experience leading high-visibility, local outreach programs with preference toward federal-level projects; 10 years’ experience in strategic communications planning and implementation, public relations and partnership development; 3 years demonstrable in-depth knowledge of and experience with local engagement of high visibility projects at the national level

2. Senior Project Manager - a senior manager identified by the Project Director to provide regular, day-to-day direction, leadership, guidance and oversight to USACE, including any sub- Contractors. The Project Manager reports to the Project Director and is responsible for planning and implementing all tasks. The Project Manager will meet regularly with the USACE N2W Outreach Team and USACE N2W PDT to insure all aspects of project implementation. The Senior Project Manager will demonstrate a deep understanding of the nuances of communicating with all stakeholder identified. The Project Manager may be assigned by the Project Director to serve as his/her alternate.

3 years’ experience managing high-visibility, local outreach programs with a preference toward federal-level projects; Masters’ degree in Communications, Marketing, Business or related field and 3 years’ experience in strategic communications planning and implementation, public relations and partnership development; 3 years demonstrable in-depth knowledge of and experience with local engagement of high visibility projects at the national level

3. Visual Communications Coordinator will direct creative and production staff and sub- Contractors (e.g., graphic artists, photographers, video producers, media specialists, focus group organizers/facilitators, etc.) in the day -to-day activities required to successfully complete the tasks.

3 years’ experience in communications; 3 years’ experience conducting and/or coordinating communications directed at target groups and or examples of successful products, materials or campaigns developed and disseminated to one or more of the target audiences; 3 years demonstrable in-depth knowledge of and experience with local engagement of high visibility projects at the national level; by

POSITION TITLE/ FUNCTIONAL

RESPONSIBILITY

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

4. Communications Specialist - primarily responsible for the development of communications content that includes writing speeches, blogs, news releases, scripts, captions, fact sheets and articles, etc.

3 years’ experience writing about government issues for executive level officials and for the general public;

3 years’ experience in communications; 5 years demonstrable in-depth knowledge of and experience with local engagement of high visibility projects at the national level.

5. Website Content Manager - responsible for developing and managing the delivery of information and messages through an online presence including websites and social media communications; works closely with website technical teams to maintain site standards, including accessibility, with regard to new content development. The website content manager will also work closely with the Outreach Manager and Communications Coordinator on crafting site promotions, email newsletters, and online outreach campaigns.

2 years’ experience managing website content and social media channels. Strong communication skills, excellent attention to detail and ability to work under tight deadlines are needed. Experience managing content related to disability and/or employment issues and familiarity with Section 508 accessibility standards and Website Content Accessibility Guidelines 2.0 (WCAG 2.0) is also highly desirable.

*6. Special Events Coordinator – manages, plans, and implements all activities and resources required for events including meetings, conferences and exhibitions. The Special Events Coordinator will develop and oversee the execution of work plans that include items such as venue selection, promotion, registration, facilities, staff, and recording.

* This position is NOT considered KEY; however, the task is needed.

2 years’ experience in meeting and exhibition planning and management.

1.6.12 Identification of Contractor Employees: All agreement personnel attending meetings, answering Government telephones, and working in other situations where their Contractor status is not obvious to third parties are required to identify themselves as such to avoid creating an impression in the minds of members of the public that they are Government officials. They must also ensure that all documents or reports produced by Contractors are suitably marked as Contractor products or that Contractor participation is appropriately disclosed.

1.6.13 Contractor Travel: Contractor(s) may be required to travel the Continental United Stated (CONUS) and within the St. Louis Metropolitan area during the performance of this agreement to attend meetings, conferences.

The Contractor(s) may be required to travel to off-site meeting and conference locations outside of the St. Louis Metropolitan area and to ship conference materials to these locations in support of this N2W Outreach Team.

Contractor(s) will be authorized travel expenses consistent with the substantive provisions of the Joint Travel Regulation (JTR) and the limitation of funds specified in this agreement. All travel requires Government approval/authorization.

1.6.14 Other Direct Costs: Other direct costs may include travel expenses (outlined in 1.6.13), purchasing publications and other items based on the requirements of the initiatives and projects that may be supported by this PWS and approved by the KO.

1.6.15 Data Rights: The Government has unlimited rights to all documents/material produced under this agreement.

All documents and materials, to include the source codes of any software, produced under this agreement shall be Government owned and are the property of the Government with all rights and privileges of ownership/copyright belonging exclusively to the Government. These documents and materials may not be used or sold by the Contractor(s) without written permission from the KO. All materials supplied to the Government shall be the sole property of the Government and may not be used for any other purpose. This right does not abrogate any other Government rights.

1.6.16 Organizational Conflict of Interest: Contractor(s) and subcontractor personnel performing work under this agreement may receive, have access to or participate in the development of proprietary or source selection information (e.g., cost or pricing information, budget information or analyses, specifications or work statements, etc.) or perform evaluation services which may create a current or subsequent Organizational Conflict of Interests (OCI) as defined in FAR Subpart 9.5. The Contractor(s) shall notify the KO immediately whenever it becomes aware that such access or participation may result in any actual or potential OCI and shall promptly submit a plan to the CO to avoid or mitigate any such OCI. The Contractor(s)’s mitigation plan will be determined to be acceptable solely at the discretion of the KO and in the event the KO unilaterally determines that any such OCI cannot be satisfactorily avoided or mitigated, the KO may affect other remedies as he or she deems necessary, including prohibiting the Contractor(s) from participation in subsequent contracted requirements which may be affected by the

OCI.

1.6.17 Phase In /Phase Out Period: To minimize any decreases in productivity and to prevent possible negative impacts on additional services, the Contractor(s) shall have personnel on board, during the up to ninety (90) day phase in/ phase out periods. During the phase in period, the Contractor(s) shall become familiar with performance requirements in order to commence full performance of services on the BPA call start date. The phase in/ phase out period will not occur after each BPA call and will only be required as deem necessary by the Contracting Officer.

1.6.18 Accessible Deliverables: All documents and deliverables prepared for or provided to USACE, including proposals, must be in accessible formats. All materials submitted in hardcopy must be provided in an accessible electronic copy at the same time of hard copy submission or alternate accessible format when requested. The definition of accessible formats is found in section 2.1.1.

1.6.19 Project Management The Contractor shall designate a single contact, reachable by telephone, to respond to any unforeseen situation that may arise during normal working hours of 7:00 am – 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, during the performance of each BPA call. The Contractor may be required to provide a representative for each BPA call to provide practical consulting services and problem resolution.

PART 2: DEFINITIONS & ACRONYMS

2. DEFINITIONS AND ACRONYMS:

2.1. Definitions:

2.1.1 Accessibility: Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (29 U.S.C. §794d), as amended by the Workforce Investment Act of 1998 (P.L. 105-220) August 7, 1998, applies to Federal Departments and Agencies.

Section 508 requires that, when Federal Agencies procure, develop, maintain, or use Electronic and Information Technology (EIT)/Information and Communication Technology (ICT), they will ensure this technology allows both Federal employees and members of the public with disabilities to have access to and use of information and data comparable to that accessed and used by Federal employees and members of the public who are not individuals with disabilities, unless one or more exceptions apply.

EIT/ICT greatly affects how federal agencies and their employees achieve agency goals, do their daily work and serve the American people. EIT/ICT is also a major gateway to employment opportunities in both the public and private sectors, and it is key to how information is shared with employees, how employees are productive in the workplace, and how they advance in their careers. USACE is a federal agency devoted to increasing employment opportunities for people with disabilities and to the compliance with and implementation of Section 508, which is critical to ensuring equal access to EIT/ICT.

All Electronic and Information Technology (EIT)/Information and Communication Technology (ICT) deliverables produced by the CONTRACTOR(S) shall be accessible, usable by assistive technologies, and meet the baseline criteria outlined in Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (29 U.S.C. 794d), as amended by the Workforce Investment Act of 1998 (P.L. 105-220) August 7, 1998, the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines 2.0 (WCAG 2.0)

Level AA and the Department of Labor Management Series (DLMS) Section 9, Chapter 600. EIT/ICT deliverables include but are not limited to: websites, software, mobile applications, webcasts, webinars, multimedia (e.g. charts, graphs, graphics, videos, audio tracks, and animation), social media, collaborative workspaces and tools, documents (e.g. PDFs, PowerPoint, and Word), forms and field elements, data tables, image maps, and any training and related training materials. Print materials must be made available in an alternate accessible format when requested.

EIT/ICT deliverables will be evaluated for accessibility prior to acceptance by the Government. Government evaluations, when conducted, will utilize unified test approaches (e.g. DHS Section 508 Compliance Test Process), when applicable, or other appropriate testing methodologies approved by the Agency.

2.1.2 Accessible Formats: All documents and deliverables, including proposals, prepared for or provided to USACE must be in accessible formats. All materials submitted in hardcopy must be provided in an accessible electronic copy at the same time of hard copy submission or alternate accessible format when requested. Any multimedia (e.g.

videos hosted online, DVDs) must include synchronized captions that include all relevant audible information (dialog and sounds), include audio descriptions (when relevant visual information is not otherwise relayed audibly), and navigable by assistive technologies. Any multimedia interactive interface elements (e.g. user controls) must be navigable by assistive technology and include proper name, role, and/or state properties. Audio-only content shall be accompanied by an accessible screen text or transcript that is an accurate and complete representation of that audio content. The contrast ratio between all content background and foreground colors shall be at least 4.5:1.

All pages within PDFs created for or provided to USACE (to include those created from scanned documents) must be accessible, content within tagged correctly, and return no potential errors in the Adobe Acrobat Pro’s Accessibility Full Check “Accessibility Report” when tested against the “Adobe PDF” checking option and all of its tests. All graphics, charts, and graphs marked as images/figures within a PDF must be tagged with appropriate, descriptive alternate text conveying equivalent meaning. All text content in the PDF must be readable with assistive technology (e.g. JAWS screen reader) on each page in a comprehensive and sequential manner, to include all information provided in any alternate text descriptions for graphics. Tag order of content (found in the Adobe Acrobat Pro “Navigation Pane”) must match the Reading Order (found in the Adobe Acrobat Pro “Order Pane”) of content through manual verification. Tables shall be tagged properly including column headers, row headers, and assigned scope. Decorative elements that convey no meaning should be marked as Artifacts. Any fillable form fields and buttons must have appropriate form tags, associated tooltips conveying all information needed to correctly complete the field, have a tab order that matches the visual reading order, and be accessible and usable by keyboard only and other assistive technology.

Documents shall be provided on disk in Microsoft Word accessible Section 508 compliant format upon request.

All training, vocal presentations, and training documents must be provided in accessible Section 508 compliant format. “Point-and-click” methods of training with screenshots primarily designed for sighted users is not sufficient.

Any screenshots of user actions must be given an equivalent alternate verbal and/or text description and a non-mouse-based action alternative interaction method. All training and reference materials must be provided in an accessible Section 508 electronic format (preferably PDF or Word).

2.1.3. Blanket Purchasing Agreement. A simplified method of filling anticipated repetitive needs for supplies or services by establishing “charge accounts’’ with qualified sources of supply.

2.1.4. Contractor(s). A supplier or vendor under agreement who provides specific supplies or service to the Government.

2.1.5. Contracting Officer (KO). An employee of the U.S. Government with authority to enter into, administer, and or terminate contracts, and make related determinations and findings on behalf of the Government. Note: The only individual who can legally bind the Government.

2.1.6. Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR). An employee of the U.S. Government appointed by the KO to administer the agreement. Such appointment shall be in writing and shall state the scope of authority and limitations.

This individual has authority to provide technical direction to the Contractor(s) as long as that direction is within the scope of the agreement/call, does not constitute a change, and has no funding implications. This individual does NOT have authority to change the terms and conditions of the agreement/call.

2.1.7. Defective Service. A service output that does not meet the standard of performance associated with the Performance Work Statement.

2.1.8. Deliverable. Anything that can be physically delivered, but may include non-manufactured things such as meeting minutes or reports.

2.1.9. Key Personnel. Contractor(s) personnel that are evaluated in a source selection process and that may be required to be used in the performance of an agreement by the Key Personnel listed in the PWS. When key personnel are used as an evaluation factor in best value procurement, an offer can be rejected if it does not have a firm commitment from the persons that are listed in the proposal.

2.1.10. Physical Security. Actions that prevent the loss or damage of Government property.

2.1.11. Quality Assurance. The Government procedures to verify that services being performed by the Contractor(s) are performed according to acceptable standards.

2.1.12. Quality Assurance Surveillance Plan (QASP). An organized written document specifying the surveillance methodology to be used for surveillance of Contractor(s) performance.

2.1.13. Quality Control. All necessary measures taken by the Contractor(s) to assure that the quality of an end product or service shall meet agreement requirements.

2.1.14. Subcontractor(s). One that enters into a contract with a prime Contractor(s). The Government does not have privity of contract with the subcontractor(s).

2.1.15. Work Day. The number of hours per day the Contractor(s) provides services in accordance with the agreement.

2.1.18. Work Week. Monday through Friday, unless specified otherwise.

2.2. Acronyms:

ACOR Alternate Contracting Officer's Representative BPA Blanket Purchasing Agreement CCE Contracting Center of Excellence CFR Code of Federal Regulations CONUS Continental United States (excludes Alaska and Hawaii) COR Contracting Officer Representative EIT/ICT Electronic and Information Technology/Information and Communication Technology FAR Federal Acquisition Regulation FPM Federal Program Manager IDIQ Indefinite delivery/indefinite quantity KO Contracting Officer N2W Future National Geospatial Intelligence Agency West Facility NGA National Geospatial Intelligence Agency NWK Kansas City District, Army Corps of Engineers OCI Organizational Conflict of Interest ODC Other Direct Costs PAO Public Affairs Office PDT Project Development Team PIPO Phase In/Phase Out POC Point of Contact PRS Performance Requirements Summary PWS Performance Work Statement QA Quality Assurance QAP Quality Assurance Program QASP Quality Assurance Surveillance Plan QC Quality Control QCP Quality Control Program TE Technical Exhibit USACE United States Army Corps of Engineers

PART 3: CONTRACTOR(S) FURNISHED ITEMS AND SERVICES

3. CONTRACTOR(S) FURNISHED ITEMS AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

3.1 General: The Contractor(s), in general, shall furnish all supplies, equipment, facilities and services required to perform work under this agreement that are not listed under Part 3 of this PWS.

PART 4: SPECIFIC TASKS

4. SPECIFIC TASKS: BPA Calls under this BPA will be issued to provide any combination of the following strategic communications services.

4.1 TASK 1: Consultative Services: Consulting on and assisting in identifying, developing and implementing communications strategies and tactics to disseminate information to stakeholders and/or to change attitudes and behaviors. Communications strategies may include:

Public awareness campaigns;

Outreach and education activities;

Attend neighborhood meetings to support of N2W Outreach Team; Develop a variety of talking points and press releases for use in multiple media demographics;

Use of social media or advisement of such tools;

Web-based marketing;

Message development (including logos, brands, taglines, campaign themes, etc.); and Strategies and tactics to increase participation in USACE-related initiatives and increase visibility of and visitors to USACE-related websites.

Other consultative services include:

Recommending media sources for placement of articles, campaigns;

Identifying and recommending intermediary organizations to assist in relationship engagement and/or information dissemination; and Identifying, developing or participating in challenges, contests or competitions that further USACE’s mission

4.2 TASK 2: Market Research: Conducting market research activities to ensure content of materials and the means of dissemination are responsive to the needs of the audience and that communications tactics, including public awareness campaigns, target appropriate audiences with relevant messages. Market research activities include:

Identifying target audiences and relevant characteristics through surveys or other data gathering methods;

Conducting focus groups or other activities to determine the information needs of target audience and the best methods and messages for reaching them;

Soliciting input from identified stakeholders/target audiences to determine their preferences for format or style of communications products and means of dissemination; and

Analyzing target audience data to segment the market and develop tailored messages.

4.3 TASK 3. Materials Development and Production: Developing a variety of communications products to support USACE’s outreach, education and information dissemination efforts including, fact sheets, rack cards, DVDs/high definition video programming, newsletter articles, posters, banners, exhibit displays, website content, photographs, profiles of successful individuals or organizations, social media messages, public service announcements and other collateral materials. Development and production activities include:

Producing and creating products for a planning and construction phase updates and public service announcements;

Using graphic design to create the look and feel of products and materials so they are both appealing and accessible and use appropriate fonts, colors graphics, photography or other media elements;

Designing and producing materials in different formats (e.g., print, online, electronic, audio, photographic, and video);

Printing and reproducing quantities of materials;

Outdoor signage;

Photography services including subjects, providing or arranging for photographs to be taken for use in communications and outreach materials including books, magazines, displays, brochures and other forms of media and performing photo editing and high resolution scans;

Producing videos/films including directing shooting, arranging for talent/animation, narration, music and sound effects, video scoring and editing. (must be captioned and audio described); and

Ensuring all products are accessible to the broadest population as possible consistent with the Section 2.1.1 of this PWS

4.4 TASK 4. Content Development/Writing and Editing: Draft, edit and proof the text of communications materials that are being developed to ensure the information is accurate and that the language and style is appropriate to the topic and the target audience as well as to ensure that all written products are of high quality and free from errors. Materials that will be edited and proofed include all those authored by Contractor(s) as well as other USACE-authored documents and selected materials produced by others with or for USACE.

Content development also includes:

Performing topical research (including, but not limited to online searches) as needed to inform the content development and design of suitable products on topics identified by USACE or by Contractor(s);

Performing speechwriting, draft talking points, developing presentations or briefing materials for use by USACE staff or senior DOL officials related to disability employment;

Writing articles, blogs, press releases, Op Eds, proclamations, and newsletters for publication and/or distribution;

Writing scripts for films or videos; and Writing and editing reports on communications activities such as on-line dialogues.

4.5 TASK 5. Product Packaging and Distribution: Developing and implementing distribution plans to reach target audiences and preparing and packaging materials and products for distribution. Activities include:

Identifying, preparing and packaging materials and products for distribution;

USACE coordinating materials for distribution, such as electronic media and public service announcements (PSA) with N2W Outreach Team, (e.g., television/radio stations, social media, public events, conferences, trade shows etc.);

Distributing electronic media; and Identifying and utilizing partners or other collaborators to disseminate information and materials to targeted audiences.

4.6 TASK 6. Management of On-line Media Communications: Identifying what content or messages should be presented or distributed through on-line media and ensuring that the content is appropriate, timely, current, accurate and useful to targeted audiences and consistent with the mission and objectives of USACE. Online media communications include, but are not limited to: websites, social media, collaborative workspaces, and on-line dialogues. On-line media communications activities might include:

Providing guidance for social media accounts set up to deliver messages and engage stakeholders including, but not limited to, Facebook, Twitter, You Tube, and Instagram;

Setting up, monitoring, and moderating on-line dialogues to gather input from stakeholders on specific topics.

4.7 TASK 7. Education and Outreach: Preparing presentations that target increased awareness about the NGA program. Develop internal USACE skills related to presentation delivery and media relations. USACE Education and outreach activities include:

Conducting/delivering media or other communications-related training for USACE staff;

Preparing presentations and facilitating logistics preparations for workshops, conference sessions or webinars to stakeholders on the NGA program and construction efforts; and

Participating in meetings with stakeholders and USACE collaborators to educate them about N2W issues and/or initiatives and/or to engage them in supporting USACE’s construction activities.

4.8 TASK 8. Management of Collaborative Relationships: Recommending, assisting in the development of, maintaining and nurturing relationships with stakeholders that can be leveraged to identify or develop USACE policies and/or to promote or distribute USACE messages and/or materials related to N2W. These collaborations may be with a variety of diverse groups of entities including federal, state and local Government agencies, businesses, business organizations, non-profit organizations and other stakeholders. Collaborative relationship management includes:

Developing and supporting partnerships or alliances entered into by USACE;

Supporting committees and membership groups that USACE staff may be part of as well as those that USACE may convene;

Participating in identified meetings or events where target audiences convenes in order to promote

USACE policy issues, materials and resources; and Identifying potential collaborators and facilitating meetings or discussions between USACE staff and potential collaborators to explore opportunities for further involvement.

4.9 TASK 9. Event Support: Providing staffing and logistical support for meetings, events or exhibits (e.g., tradeshows, conferences, summits, etc.) that USACE participates in or convenes for the purpose of communicating about USACE N2W Program issues with stakeholders and other members of the public. Event support activities include:

Creating and managing graphics or signing, exhibits and displays;

Arranging for fabrication, and shipping of equipment and materials;

Assembling, setting-up, disassembling and packaging exhibit booths, displays and materials;

Managing invitation lists and registration including speakers and their travel if requested;

Identifying and securing venue and technical support requirements and event appropriate providers (security, accessibility, physical facilities, mobile communications, sign language interpreter, sound, lighting, video, projection, recording etc.);

Assisting in staffing exhibit booths; and Recording notes and draft reports summarizing meetings or events.

4.10 TASK 10. Customer Service: Providing customer service and technical assistance related to specific construction phases in response to the needs of the public, federal, state and local Government agencies, businesses, job seekers, media, and other stakeholders. Customer service includes:

Assisting in response development for some emails, calls, social media inquiries or correspondence requesting information or assistance regarding N2W;

Assisting users of…