Amendment01_QandA_W912L9-16-R-0003.pdf

Amendment #1 Solicitation W912L9‐16‐R‐0003

Question & Answer

Q1. Most small businesses (SB’s) do not possess a Business License for Afghanistan. On Page 10 of the solicitation, Paragraph B.5, Subparagraph 5.3 states, “In some instances, the Contractor will be required to travel OCONUS locations for short periods of time. These could include Iraq, Afghanistan, and other locations where Overseas Contingency Operations occur.” Will the successful bidder be required to already possess a Business License to operate in Afghanistan?

A1. No, a business license will not be required prior to the proposal due date. The Government will provide sufficient advance notice of travel requirements overseas.

Q2. On Page 10 of the solicitation, Paragraph B.5, Subparagraph 5.3 states, “In some instances, the Contractor will be required to travel OCONUS locations for short periods of time. These could include Iraq, Afghanistan, and other locations where Overseas Contingency Operations occur.” No mention of the Synchronized Predeployment & Operational Tracker (SPOT) system is made. Will this prospective travel require SPOT tracking?

A2. Yes, use of the SPOT tracking system will be required for overseas travel.

Q3. Is there an incumbent contractor or is this a new requirement?

A3. The incumbent contractor was McKellar Corp under W912L9‐11‐D‐0001.

Q4. On page 128 of the Solicitation, Paragraph L.6.4.4 ‐ Past Performance Questionnaire: it states that we should fill section 1 of this document out and send it to our customer. We cannot find the Past Performance Questionnaire as an attachment or in the body of the solicitation. Will the Government provide it?

A4. Yes. The Government posted a questionnaire and cover letter for your use on FedBizOpps on September 1st, 2016.

Q5. Is it acceptable for a prime contractor to submit a bid utilizing a subcontractor with a TS FCL to manage clearances of personnel needing TS access, or does the prime contractor submitting a bid need to itself possess a TS FCL at the time of submission if other members of the team possess one?

A5. No. Per AR 380‐49, Chapter 7, paragraph 7‐2(b), a subcontractor FCL cannot be at a higher level than the than the FCL of the prime contract. Reference question 14 regarding TOP SECRET versus SECRET requirements.

Q6. On page 52 of the Solicitation, Paragraph G16 – Insurance Coverage: no mention is made of Defense Base Act (DBA) insurance. Elsewhere it is stated that the contractor may have to travel to Iraq, Afghanistan, and other OCONUS sites. Is DBA insurance reimbursable? Is it considered a part of the Travel ODC plug number?

A6. Clauses 52.228‐3, Worker’ Compensation Insurance (Workers’ Compensation Insurance (Defense Base Act) (Jul 2014)) and 52.228‐4 (Workers’ Compensation and War‐Hazard Insurance Overseas (Apr

1984) will be added to applicable task orders (TO) as required. Costs for insurance will be considered a reimbursable cost and therefore included via a separately priced reimbursable line item on the task order.

Q7. On page 122 of the Solicitation, Paragraph L.6.2.13, it specifies that Offerors shall propose hourly rates based on a 2,080 hour work year. A 2,080 hour work year does not allow for holidays (80 hours) or vacation (80 hours+). As holidays and vacation are generally considered an indirect cost, should not the work year be 1,920 hours (i.e., 2,080 – 80 holiday – 80 vacation = 1,920)?

A7. Yes, the Government agrees that 1,920 hours should be used for calculations. The reference to 2,080 hours in this paragraph will be changed via amendment 0001.

Q8. Please note that the applicable SCA WD (WD 05‐2193 (Rev‐18)) is not attached to the solicitation.

A8. The Government has attached WD 05‐2193 (Rev‐18) via amendment 0001.

Q9. On page 100 of the Solicitation, Paragraph 5.3.4 states, “Contractor shall coordinate with Government for delivery of military specific equipment and facilities and Government provided services.” Paras 5.3.4.1 – 5.3.4.9 specify various services and equipment to be ‘coordinated’ including but not limited to: individual PPE, ‘Netbooks,’ IT Equipment, vehicles, and audio/visual equipment. Will the government be providing the individual PPE, ‘Netbooks,’ IT Equipment, vehicles, and audio/visual equipment, or will the Contractor be responsible for procuring this equipment?

A9. Yes, for the purposes of Sample Task Order pricing, the Government will provide the items stated in paragraphs 5.3.4.1 through 5.3.4.9. For future TO’s, if the Government requires items to be furnished by the Contractor it will be so stated in the TO PWS and captured as a reimbursable cost.

Q10. On page 54 of the Solicitation, Paragraph 2.5 states that the Government may occasionally provide the Contractor with a list of names for potential personnel for consideration for inclusion on a T.O.

request. This seems to indicate that there are certain individuals that are currently employed in the existing contract that the government would like to see included in the follow‐on contract. Can the Government provide the list of individuals, or the labor categories of these individuals, who may be referred to in Paragraph 2.5 now?

A10. At this time, the Government has not identified any current employees that would fall under the requirements of Executive Order 13495; however, the Government may provide a recommendation for a particular SME on a future TO.

Q11. On page 33 and page 90 of the Solicitation, Paragraphs C.7.30 and 1.4.4 respectively, it states, “The contractor shall at all times maintain an adequate work force for the uninterrupted performance of all tasks defined within this PWS when the Government facility/installation is not closed for the above reasons. When hiring personnel, the contractor shall keep in mind that the stability and continuity of the work force are essential.” This seems to infer that the contractor will maintain a cadre of full time employees who will serve as the corporate team that executes the various Task Orders and performs the analysis, revision, and administrative support functions of the contract during the period of performance. Can the Government confirm that the contractor will maintain full time employees in support of the TOs deriving from this IDIQ contract, and that the Sample TO pricing should reflect the cadre of full time employees plus any part time or temporary employees the contractor will need to execute?

A11. The Government intent does not require the Contractor to provide for a cadre of full‐time employees but only that the Contractor have sufficient oversight to ensure adequate execution of all task orders.

Q12. Is the Contractor required to fill out any portion of Section B or will that be filled in by the Government at time of award?

A12. No. All pricing should be included in Price Proposal volume I. There is no requirement to complete Section B.

Q13. On pages 118, paragraph L.6.2.7, and on again on page 132, paragraph M.2.1, there is reference to an Attachment 0004 of the RFP – Facility Clearance Worksheet. Will the Government be providing this Attachment 0004 in a future amendment?

A13. Yes. The draft DD254 will be incorporated into amendment 0001.

Q14. On page 118 of the Solicitation, paragraph L.6.2.6 thru L.6.2.7 (a), it is unclear whether the subcontractors are required to have a Top Secret facilities clearance, or if the Offeror (Prime) is the only entity required to have a TS FCL. Will the government clarify?

A14. Subcontractors are not required to have a TS FCL prior to the RFP closing date, however the Prime contractor must have a minimum of a SECRET FCL. The Prime has to have a Secret clearance and be eligible for a TS FCL. When TS FCL becomes a requirement of a TO, the Government will facilitate sponsorship. L.6.2.7 and L.6.2.7 (a) have been amended to reflect this change.

Q15. On page 126 of the Solicitation, paragraph L.6.4 – Past Performance Proposal, it states, “Offerors shall submit all Government and/or commercial contracts for the prime offeror and each major subcontractor in performance or awarded during the past three years…” On page 137, paragraph M.5.3.3, it states, “…offerors will be reminded to include the most recent and relevant efforts (within the past five years) in their proposal.” Additionally, on page 137, paragraph M.5.3.3.2 states, “…recency is performance occurring within the last five (5) years.” Should PP citations be from the last three years or the last five years?

A15. Five years is correct. Paragraph L.6.4 has been amended to reflect this change.

Q16. On page 126 of the Solicitation, paragraph L.6.4 states that the PP volume shall not exceed 25 pages plus five pages for each major subcontractor. On page 117 of the Solicitation, paragraph 5.4.3, it states, “Volume III, Past Performance. No page limit.” Does Volume 3, Past Performance, have a page limit?

A16. The page limits indicated in L.6.4 are the correct limits. Paragraph 5.4.3 has been amended to reflect this change.

Q17. If our company is going to use a ‘minor’ subcontractor (less than 10% workshare), do we need to include any documentation on the minor subcontractor, i.e., letter of commitment or letter of consent, past performance, or Teaming Agreement?

A17. Yes. The Government will want to evaluate an Offeror's entire proposed solution to perform services; to include the Offeror's proposed teaming arrangements (formal or informal) with all subcontractors, regardless of percentage of work each plans to perform. In order to meet the Government's objectives explained in the "Basis for Award" section of the RFP, Government evaluators want to read the entire technical approach to understand how the offeror and all of their teammates will provide the scope and magnitude of work delineated in the PWS.

Q18. With an opportunity this large and set‐aside for small business, can the government please consider pulling back the Solicitation and issuing a DRAFT? There are too many unknowns about the level of effort and there is no pricing guidance provided.

A18. No, the Government believes between the solicitation, subsequent amendments and the site visit there will be sufficient information upon which to build a proposal.

Q19. If the government cannot pull the Solicitation back and issue a DRAFT, would the government please provide historical information as the FTE’s, labor categories, etc.

A19. Estimated historical task order data is provided in Technical Exhibit 3 on page 43 of the solicitation.

This is a performance based contract and it is up to the Contractor to propose adequate FTEs and labor categories. The following listing is made available to act as a guide only. This is not to be considered an approved list by the Government. Each Contractor shall propose the categories they deem necessary.

Further, any description of a Non‐Exempt proposed labor category (ex Role Player) should show its crosswalk to the proposed SCA labor category. It is up to the Contractor to determine the best “fit” for the SCA job category.

Possible SCA Exempt Categories Possible SCA Non‐Exempt Categories

Program Manager Administrative Assistant

Program Manager II Exhibits Specialist

Project Manager General Clerk

Site Manager Material Expediter

Financial Specialist/Manager

Lead Facilitator

Lead Designer

Role Player Manager

Lead Role Player

Curriculum Designer/Lead

Curriculum Designer/Specialist

Instructional Systems Design

Scenario Developer

Interpreter w/ Clearance

Interpreter w/o Clearance

SME (I, II, III, IV)

Research Analyst/Evaluator

Logistics Management Specialist

Equipment Specialist

Quality Manager

IT Specialist/Manager

Technical Writer

Technical Instructor

Quality Specialist

Graphic Artist

IT Technician

Q20. RFP M.5.3.3 (page 137) – Past Performance states Major Subcontractors are defined as members of the team who are expected to perform 10% or more of the work. Due to the nature of the IDIQ and issuance of varying Task Orders in which the needs are currently unknown, would you provide clarification on what is considered a ‘major subcontractor’.

A20. The 10% requirement found in M5.3.3 is accurate for both the sample TO proposal as well as the base IDIQ proposal.

Q21. RFP L.6.2.7 (page 118). There is a reference to Attachment 0004‐Facility Clearance Worksheet. No such attachment was provided with the RFP.

A21. Reference question 13 above.

Q22. RFP L.6.3.3.2 – Factor 2, Subfactor 2 – Proposed Personnel (page 126, second paragraph). The paragraph mentions “Section L, Attachment B, Listing of Key Personnel. Question – is Attachment B a document that is part of the RFP. If so, please provide.

A22. No specific form is required, but a page of the proposal should be dedicated to listing their names and titles. This is in addition to the resume and commitment letters stated in the referenced paragraph.

Reference to Attachment B in the solicitation have been deleted via amendment.

Q23. RFP L5.4.2 – Volume II, Technical and Management (page 116). Will the Government consider expanding the page restrictions of the Technical and Management volume to 100 and 40 pages, respectively, to allow the offeror adequate space to respond in detail to all PWS requirements, as well as adequately address the Sample Task Order requirements?

A23. No, the Government maintains the page count requirements as stated on page 116, paragraph

5.4.2. For clarity, the requirements of paragraph L.6.3.3.2 are excluded from the page limit for Volume II.

Q24. RFP L.6.3.2 Evaluation Factor 1 – Technical Approach, Subfactor 2 – Sample Task Order (TAB B).

Second paragraph, Element 2 – Task Execution Approach states that the offeror shall outline in details its approach and ability to effectively and efficiently implement and accomplishment the requirements specified in Sections 6.3.3 through 6.4.3.4 of the task order PWS. After reviewing Attachment J2, Sample Task Order, we cannot locate Sections 6.3.3 through 6.4.3.4. Please confirm and clarify.

A24. The applicable paragraphs are 5.1 through 5.5. The reference to 6.3.3 through 6.4.3.4 is incorrect.

L.6.3.2 has been amended.

Q25. RFP L.5.4.3 Volume III Past Performance and RFP L.6.4 Volume III Past Performance Proposal.

Section L.5.4.3 states that there are no page limits for Past Performance and Section L.6.4 states that this volume shall not exceed 25 pages plus 5 pages for each major subcontractor, excluding PPQ Forms.

Please confirm whether the Past Performance volume has page restrictions and what they are. If there are page restrictions, do the letters of commitment count toward that page restriction?

A25. Reference question 16. Per L.6.4, commitment letters do not count toward the page restriction and L.6.3.3.2.

Q26. Technical Exhibit 2 Deliverables Schedule C.7.38, L.6.3.3.3, M.5.2.1.3 (pages 42, 126,136). Technical Exhibit 2 Deliverables Schedule C.7.38 identifies the IDIQ QC Plan is due 30 calendar days after award, L.6.3.3.3 has the QC Plan as an evaluation factor that must be submitted with proposal.

A26. A draft QC plan must be submitted with the proposal; however, a finalized plan is due 30 calendar days after award.

Q27. Please confirm whether the IDIQ QC Plan is due 30 calendar days after award or with the proposal.

A27. See question 26.

Q28. Subfactor 2 Element 2 (page 123) ‐ Refers to Section 6.3.3 through 6.3.4.3 of the TO PWS – These sections are missing.

A28. See question 24.

Q29. Section B5. Place of Performance, Para. 5.3, Page No. 10 of 141, indicates that "In some instances, the Contractor will be required to travel OCONUS locations for short periods of time. These could include Iraq, Afghanistan, and other locations where Overseas Contingency Operations occur." How does the Government plan to account/reimburse for equitable adjustment due to salary uplifts, transportation, medical examinations, special insurances (Life, Medical) and other costs associated with deploying contractor personnel OCONUS to a hazardous duty zone?

A29. See question 6.

Q30. Based on the information presented in Section B5, Place of Performance, Para 5.3, Page 10 of 141, please provide guidance as to whether contractors will fall under the provisions of Contractors on the Battlefield and be under USG SOFA agreements or similar defense accords? Further, will this circumvent local laws for in‐country sponsorship and labor laws? Additional information is required to fully address the logistical requirements of OCONUS work.

A30. If OCONUS travel is required, details and requirements will be provided in subsequent Task Orders.

Travel for this purpose is primarily to observe, assess, and understand current training, techniques, and practices, in support of curricula development.

Q31. Within Technical Exhibit 3, Estimated Workload Data, Page 43 of 141, the estimated workload data table shows a significant decrease in the level of effort (LOE) since the contract started. Please advise, does the Government expect this RFP's workload to be similar to that of 2016? Or, to follow the pattern established in 2012? Will the Government provide estimated labor hours consumed during each of the contract years as there is a significant difference in LOE between developing a training module and updating one. Without Government‐provided labor hours, the incumbent possesses a significant advantage as they have unequal knowledge of the level of effort (LOE) required and whether current products will simply be updated vs new development.

A31. There is no additional estimate available other than what is provided in Technical Exhibit 3. Future requirements other than these existing programs are unknown at this time.

Q32. Section 1.4 General Information, Para 1.4.4 Place and Performance of Services, Page 90 of 141, "The Contractor shall provide services between the hours of 0730‐1630, 7 days per week when a class is being conducted, except on recognized US holidays or when the Government facility/installation is closed due to local or national emergencies, administrative closings, or similar Government‐directed facility/installation closings. Section C.7.30 Place and Performance of Services. "The contractor shall provide services as directed by individual task order, but will typically fall between normal business hours of 0730‐1630, Monday through Friday. The contractor shall provide services as directed by individual task order, but will typically fall between normal business hours of 0730‐1630, Monday through Friday. As this contract is subject to the Service Contract Act, can the government confirm whether contract employees get OT if they exceed the 40 Hrs. work week and are pay uplifts allowed due to weekend work?

A32. It is the Contractors responsibility to manage their workforce within the allotted business day. If the TO requires SCA employees to work overtime, it will be negotiated on a TO basis.

Q33. Section 5.3, Conduct Additional Training Courses, Para 5.3.1, page 100 of 141, "Contractor shall deliver a twelve day training event that satisfies the requirements as stated below. Each training event will have between 50 students." There appears to be a word missing in the second sentence, 'between 50 and what? Will the Government provide data on the Maximum, Minimum and Optimum class sizes?

A33. For the Sample TO, paragraph 5.3.1 will be amended to remove the word “between” from “between 50 students.”

Q34. Section 5.3, Conduct Additional Training Courses, para 5.3.1, page 100 of 141 "Contractor will be prepared to conduct eight (8) additional training iterations (one per month). Contractor shall fully resource each iteration as a stand‐alone event." Is this the training cycle (9 classes) for the Base Year?

What is the expected training cycle for the Option Years since there will no be a 60 month transition or phase in period?

A34. The training cycle is not 9 classes per year. Nor is there estimated training cycle for the option years. Paragraph 5.3.1 states the “Contractor will be prepared to conduct 8 additional training iterations (one per month).”

Q35. Section 5.4, Curriculum Assessment, Evaluation, and Modification, Para 5.4.1.6, "Provide a monthly assessment of program trends, assumption, strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, threats, gap analyses, with recommendations for ongoing program improvement." Gap analyses is a very intensive process that generally requires working groups and SMEs, does the Government mean 'gap identification' using the DOTMLPF enterprise? e.g. Facility gap due to delays in construction prevented using BLDG 121.

Please confirm.

A35. The term “gap analyses” will be deleted from paragraph 5.4.1.6.

Q36. Technical Exhibit 1, Performance Requirements Summary, Para 5.2.3, Page 102 of 141, "One hundred percent (100%) of all exercises shall be fully resourced, and de‐conflicted with other training events." We recommend that the government change 'fully resourced' to 'resources identified.' The Government is responsible for providing the resources not the contractor; the contractor should not be held liable if the Government cannot or does not provide the required resources.

A36. The Government intent of the Acceptable Quality Level (AQL) is that the Contractor will fully resource each exercise, scenario and vignette as described in the TO with acceptable levels of labor, material, and supplies that are not identified as Government provided.

Q37. Section B, CLINs 0001, 1001, 2001, 3001, 4001 (Firm Fixed Priced Services). Given that we are to price a sample task order for the base proposal and that future work will be priced at the task order level using our proposed rates, what information should be provided here for the proposal submission?

A37. See question 12.

Q38. Should we propose a fixed handling fee for travel costs as part of our proposal? If so, where in the proposal should it be proposed?

A38. Any administrative handling fees should be included in Volume I, Tab 4, Group A of the proposal.

See L.6.2.9.

Q39. The solicitation provides that work may be accomplished as CONUS or OCONUS locations other than Camp Atterbury or the MUTC. Will fixed rates be proposed and negotiated on a task‐by‐task basis when the specific “other” locations are targeted? And, will OCONUS labor uplifts and other direct costs be addressed on a task‐by‐task basis?

A39. See question 6 and 29.

Q40. The solicitation provides in the sample pricing model, for non‐exempt (SCA) employees, that the H&W cost rate is to be added into the fixed rate after applying our Burdened Coefficient. There are corporate indirect expenses associated with supplying and administering the H&W benefits, but this model doesn’t provide for any cost recovery. Will the Government allow the Coefficient to be added to the H&W costs?

A40. The template provided in section L.6.2.12 is a sample, however refer to paragraph L.6.2.13 for a full list of allowable labor‐related costs.

Q41. FAR 52.222‐17 Nondisplacement of Qualified Workers is in the solicitation. Are there incumbent full‐time non‐exempt (SCA) employees under the current contract? If so, can we get a list of them and their tenure on the contract so we can properly estimate their H&W costs?

A41. No. See question 11.

Q42. Paragraph C.7.5, Reimbursable Expenses. What costs are envisioned here and how do they differ from travel or equipment/supplies purchases?

A42. No. There are no other costs envisioned other than travel and equipment.

Q43. Paragraph C.7.24.3 and Section G15, Liability. The Contractor is indemnifying the Government and its personnel for any injury caused to those personnel during contract performance, to the extent the Contractor is negligent but there is no such negligence standard present for any injuries to Contractor personnel caused by the Government. Is the Government intending to indemnify the Contractor?

A43. No. The Government does not intend to indemnify the Contractor. See section G.16 for insurance coverage.

Q44. FAR 52.244‐2, will consent be granted as part of the base contract award for those Subcontractors proposed by the Government?

A44. The Government does not intend to propose Subcontractors.

Q45. Will the Government provide Attachment 0004 (FCL Worksheet)?

A45. See question 13.

Q46. Paragraph 5.4.3, Vol III, Past Performance states no page limit, but Paragraph L.6.4 states a 25‐page limit plus 5 pages for each major Subcontractor? Which is correct?

A46. See question 16.

Q47. Subfactor 2, Sample Task Order (Tab B), Sections 6.3.3 through 6.3.4.3 are referenced, yet we can find no such sections. Please clarify.

A47. See question 24.

Q48. B.6.1, Pg. 10 of 141. As indicated in Section C, the Contractor may be required to obtain supplies, equipment, travel or services related to the performance of the task. Does the Government desire to have new supplies and equipment purchased, or will equipment and supplies from the existing contract and vendor be made available to the new contractor?

A48. All Government owned equipment and supplies will be made available to the new Contractor, and if new are needed they will be annotated in the applicable TO.

Q49. C.6.2, Pg. 23 of 141. The Program Manager or Assistant Program Manager shall be available during normal operating hours within 2 hours of notification to discuss emergency issues. Can the Government further define the term “available”? (Onsite in DC, Onsite in Indiana, On a call, etc.)

A49. For the purposes of this question, “available” means the Program Manager must be accessible to the Government via in person, by phone or video‐teleconference.

Q50. L.5.1, Page 115 of 141, L.5.1. Volume I shall contain the auxiliary supporting price data Microsoft Excel spreadsheets. The Government considers all proposals as “For Official Use Only" and to contain "Source Selection Information in accordance with FAR 2.101 and FAR 3.104. Will the government provide the referenced spreadsheet that the Vendors populated with supporting pricing data or should vendors draft this? If Vendor develops, will the Government please further define “supporting data”.

A50. The Contractor will utilize their own spreadsheet. Refer to L.6, “Proposal Content.”

Q51. Reference Page 126, Section L.6.3.3.2., The Offeror shall also complete and submit [Section L, Attachment B, Listing of Key Personnel], with all of the names and titles of the proposed Key Personnel.

Question: The referenced Attachment is not included in the RFP. Request the Government provide an editable version of the attachment.

A51. See question 22.

Q52. C.7.11.1 Security Clearances: Contract employees who have access to classified information, Local Area Network (LAN) or controlled/restricted areas require a National Agency Check (NAC) and some will subsequently require a Secret security clearance. However, it is also stated in Section C.7.21 that this IDIQ can potentially require access to Top Secret information in the future. Since the current requirement is not at a Top Secret level, can a Prime Contractor with a Secret facility clearance be allowed to bid for this work, then subsequently upgrade their level to Top Secret after award?

Alternatively, can a Prime Contractor with a Secret facility clearance choose a subcontracting partner possessing a Top Secret facility clearance and enter an agreement with the government that all Top Secret level work will be assigned to the subcontractor?

A52. Refer to question 5 and 14 for clarification.

Q53. On page 20 of the solicitation, paragraph C.3.7.5 states, “The Contractor shall conduct tours of facilities, demonstrate models, and operate a visitor’s bureau during scheduled exercises or periods of high visibility.” Can the Gov clarify the requirement to staff & operate a visitor’s bureau, i.e., staffing, equipment, hours, etc.?

A53. Requirements for this task will be detailed in subsequent Task Orders.

Q54. On page 100 of the solicitation, paragraph 5.3.3 states, “Contractor will provide logistical, transportation, housing, feeding, etc. for civilian/contracted instructors, civilian/contracted SMEs, and civilian/contracted OC/Ts not using or entitled to use Government facilities and support.” Please clarify the following: Do contractor personnel, i.e., contractor‐SME’s, instructors, role players, etc., stay overnight at FOB Panther or elsewhere on MUTC, and if so, is housing/billeting provided by the Gov or does the contractor pay for housing/billeting? If so, what are the rates?

A54. For the purposes of the sample TO, the Contractor shall refer to L.6.2.12.3 for travel.

Q55. Are meals provided to contractor personnel or does the contractor pay for meals? Are meals for contractor personnel taken at the military dining facility?

A55. No, meals are not provided. The costs should be captured as a travel cost.

Q56. Does the Gov provide transportation within MUTC for contractor personnel, i.e., SME’s, instructors, role players, etc., or does the contractor maintain multi‐passenger vehicles for transportation of contractor personnel on board MUTC? Or are POV’s allowed?

A56. No, the Government does not provide transportation for Contractor employees. POVs are allowed at MUTC with advance coordination.

Q57. Does the Gov provide props, i.e., native clothing, flags, photos/art/artifacts, tea sets & supplies, etc., or does the contractor supply such material?

A57. For the purposes of the sample task order, refer to L.6.2.12.3. For the IDIQ, any Government owned supplies will be detailed in subsequent TO PWS.

Q58. In the current immersive training scenarios at MUTC how many Pashto or Dari speaking role players are required? (Large village population or small groups of individuals?)

A58. For the purposes of the sample task order, it is up to the Contractor to determine the best technical solution that meets the sample PWS requirements.

Q59. Does the contractor, or does the Gov, provide/issue a computer (netbook) to each student?

A59. For the purposes of the sample task order the netbook is Government furnished equipment.

Q60. In the immersive training scenarios at MUTC are the student groups large or small? What is the Instructor : Student ratio?

A60. This is dependent on the complexities and length of the required training program. Typical ratios average Hands on training – 1:15, Instructional with practical exercises, ‐ 1:25, Briefings/presentational lectures – 1:50. Below are historical data for the last 5 years.

Course Class Size (max) # Iterations Length of Training Course CEW 50 1/mo (12) 12 days MoDA 25 3/yr 7 weeks

CEW: Civilian Expeditionary Workforce Civilian‐Military Integrated Immersion Training MoDA: OSD Ministry of Defense Advisor Training Program

Q61. 1.0 General. Is it the Gov'ts intent to award the sample task order with the IDIQ award?

A61. The sample task order is for evaluation purposes only. However, it is anticipated that the Government would require a similar TO within the first 90 days from contract award.

Q62. J2 STO (1.2.1) M9 Training and Qualification; Rotary Wing Operations. What is the contractor role in these two lines of effort?

A62. The Government provides guidance and range safety oversight – the Contractor may have a requirement for augmented safety personnel (lane safety, etc.) and may have a requirement for its personnel to be safety certified by Range Operations for such duties. Military observer/controller/trainers (OCT) routinely coordinate military security force personnel synchronization with training events, however Contractor SMEs and other operational personnel should be expected to conduct range operations and weapon qualification events as prescribed in the PWS. For Rotary Wing operations, the Contractor will coordinate with army aviation personnel and assist as needed.

Q63. J2 STO (1.2.1), Mind Fitness, Combat Hunter Combat Hunter is a 15 day USMC course teaching enhanced observation, combat profiling and combat tracking. Which specific areas/tasks does the WGTSSDP want to focus on for the 1‐2 days identified for this training?

A63. For the purposes of the sample task order, the area to focus on is basic observation.

Q64. J2 STO (1.2.1), Military Training, COIN, CIED. Can you specify required versus optional tasks to be trained given short duration?

A64. For the purposes of the sample task order with one day allotted for the training of these topics, the Contractor shall select basic principles of the topics.

Q65. J2 STO (1.2.1), Adaptability & Working in Fluid Environments. Can you specify required versus optional tasks to be trained given short duration?

A65. For the purposes of the sample task order with one day allotted for the training of these topics, the Contractor shall select basic principles of the topics.

Q66. J2 STO (1.2.1), 1.2.1 Core curriculum for the Civilian Deployment training events will occur in the phases described below unless directed otherwise by the government: � Reception, Staging, Orientation, In‐Processing – Day 1‐2; � Deployment Processing Day 3‐4; ETC…. Is this training agenda in current operation? If so, can you provide the current schedule to include classes, tasks, and instructor contact hours?

A66. A similar agenda is currently in effect. The training agenda shall be determined by the Contractor using the guidelines found in 1.2.1 of the sample TO. It is the offeror’s responsibility to analyze and propose their approach (to include labor) to meeting the requirements of the solicitation. Refer to questions 63, 64, and 65 as well.

Q67. J2 STO (1.2.1), 1.2.1 Core curriculum for the Civilian Deployment training events will occur in the phases described below unless directed otherwise by the government: � Reception, Staging, Orientation, In‐Processing – Day 1‐2; � Deployment Processing Day 3‐4; ETC…..What training agenda areas does curriculum already exist?

A67. Refer to question 66.

Q68. J2, Sample Task Order Form Section 1.4.3, The Contractor (shall /shall not) perform services on these days: Is it "shall" or "shall not"?

A68. Section 1.4.3 has been amended to state “shall not.”

Q69. J2 STO (1.2.1), What training, instruction, and range qualification does the military provide and the contractor coordinates, if any?

A69. Refer to question 62.

Q70. J2 Sample Task Order Form Section 5.5.1, Which of the listed training agenda items have curriculum already been developed under the incumbent contract? Is a valid assumption that a new contractor would have access to work product developed under the predecessor contract?

A70. Detail requisites to provide a proposal are provided in the Sample Task Order, to include number of students, location of training, type of instruction, required types of instructional support. No additional information is available. To answer the second part, for awarded TO’s, the Contractor would have access to previously developed work products.

Q71. J2 Sample Task Order Form Section 5.5.1, The Contractor shall utilize existing content and modules, where available. Sources for this content include, and are not limited to: The Foreign Service Institute, The United States Institute of Peace, National Defense University, and the Center for Creative Leadership. Is it a valid assumption that materials created in support of the previous contract(s) will be available to use in support of the requirements of the Sample Task Order?

A71. See question 70.

Q72. 5.5.1, The Contractor shall utilize existing content and modules, where available. Sources for this content include, and are not limited to: The Foreign Service Institute, The United States Institute of Peace, National Defense University, and the Center for Creative Leadership. What financial agreements does INARNG have with the listed organizations and DoD entities in general? For purposes of STO response should it be assumed that content / modules from other Government agencies would be obtained at no charge to INARNG and/or the contractor?

A72. No formal agreements exist. Yes, it is reasonable.

Q73. Subfactor 2‐ Sample Task Order (TAB B), Element 2 ‐ Task Execution Approach – The offeror shall outline in detail its’ approach and ability to effectively and efficiently implement and accomplish the requirements specified in Section 6.3.3 through 6.3.4.3 of the task order PWS. The offeror shall also address special implementation requirements/efforts to apply the offeror’s Quality Control Plan to the specific elements of the task order. 6.33 through 6.3.4.3 do not appear to be the correct PWS sections.

Would the Government please clarify?

A73. See question 24.

Q74. L.6.3.3.3. Factor 2, Subfactor 3 ‐ Quality Control(QC) Plan (TAB D) and Technical Exhibit 2 Deliverable Schedule, The offeror shall use the PWS, along with other applicable portions of the RFP, as a basis to prepare a tailored complementary Quality Control Plan. There is no page limit to the QC Plan.

This section should address the general requirements of the base IDIQ, not the requirements of the sample task order. Section L.6.3.3.3. Factor 2, Subfactor 3 states the QCP is to be submitted with proposal but TE2 Delieverable schedule states it is to be providing within 30 calendar days after award, please clarify.

A74. See question 26.

Q75. L.6.2.7. says that Top Secret Security Clearance is required by the Offeror/subcontractor/managing partner, and requires that Attachment 0004‐ Facility Clearance Worksheet be filled out. Will this attachment be provided? And if it will not be included with the Solicitation, can form DD 254 serve as a substitute for the worksheet?

A75. See question 13.

Q76. C5 – Will office space be provided by the government on MUTC or Atterbury?

A76. Yes, as required by task order.

Q77. C6 – Does the project manager or assistant project manager need a top secret clearance prior to award?

A77. No, the individuals must be TS eligible at the time of proposal submission.

Q78. M.1.1 – Can the government clarify if this solicitation is “best value” or “best price”?

A78. Best value. See M.1.1 and M.1.1.3.

Q79. Tab B – Can the government please provide the sample task order that was supposed to be listed in Tab B.

A79. Sample TO is listed in attachment J2.

Q80. Sec L para 5.4.3, pg 117, This conflicts with guidance in para L.6.4 page 126. What is the page limit for volume III?

A80. See question 16.

Q81. Para c.3.1.1, This para states the contractor shall survey all these other government courses (USIP, FSI, NDU, NPGS, etc.) Will the government facilitate access and authorization to review and obtain the material from these and other identified courses? Since this is requirement in contract, USG should facilitate access and obtaining course material for survey and review. Otherwise, only incumbent has access and sets the conditions for an unfair advantage.

A81. See question 72.

Q82. B3. Contract Ceiling and Minimum Orders, 3.1 Contract Award: As a result of this solicitation utilizing the evaluation procedures defined in FAR 15.3, Source Selection and detailed in Section M, the Government intends to award a single IDIQ contract. Given the ceiling of the IDIQ at $100M and the diverse nature of the expected task orders, will the Government award to multiple vendors (rather than single award)?

A82. No. See section B.3.

Q83. B4. Labor Classification 4.1 The Government will issue performance‐based Task Orders to the Contractor for individual tasks or projects. Will the government provide a synopsis of task orders issued FY 2015 and FY 2016?

A83. See Technical Exhibit 3 for data.

Q84. "B4. Labor Classification 4.1 and Attachment J Sample Task Order Form 1.1.1 "Each individual Task Order will specify the task, location, service to be provided, performance measurements, the Schedule labor classification the Government has determined applies and if applicable, the Service Contract Act (SCA) Wage determination for Non‐Exempt classifications.” Will the government provide the SCA labor categories for the Sample Task Order? These categories are required to accurately price the Sample Task Order.

A84. This is a performance based contract and it is up to the Contractor to propose adequate FTEs and labor categories.

Q85. B4. Labor Classification, Each individual Task Order will specify the task, location, service to be provided, performance measurements, the Schedule labor classification the Government has determined applies and if applicable, the Service Contract Act (SCA) Wage determination for Non‐ Exempt classifications. Will the Government provide a historical use of labor categories and the categories historically determined to be Non‐Exempt under the SCA?

A85. See question 84.

Q86. B5. Place of Performance 5.1, However some services may be required in other locations throughout the United States and North America. What other locations have Task Orders been performed?

A86. CONUS locations should be focused around Central Indiana. No special consideration is provided for OCONUS at this time. Previous task orders have also utilized Fort Polk, Louisiana and the National Capital Region.

Q87. B5.2, Requirements for the contracts include work in Government facilities, off‐site locations and telecommuting, which will be specified in each Task Order. How does the Government distinguish between telecommuting and telework?

A87. The Government considers these terms to be synonymous.

Q88. B6. Other Direct Charges 6.1.1, The Government will pay only the actual amount (net‐net) paid by the vendor for supplies, equipment, or services related to the performance of the task. Unless otherwise stated in the Task Order, no G&A or profit will be paid on these actual costs. Will the Government reimburse M&H (material and handling) for these supplies?

A88. The Government does not understand this question. However, if shipping costs are required they will be reimbursed to the Contractor.

Q89. C3. Scope "The breadth of training and support may range from individual civilian/military personnel and supervisors to their families, their agencies, and other supporting entities." How many individuals by category (civilian/military, supervisors, family members, agencies and other supporting entities) were trained in FY 15 and FY16?

A89. Civilians=321, Military=115, Supervisors=0, Family Members=0, Supporting Agencies=0.

Q90. C.3 Scope "The Government intends for this IDIQ to cover the following five primary and three supporting task areas listed below across the five key environments listed above:" What significant changes does the Government desire between the 2011 solicitation and this one (as relates to scope and performance)?

A90. Specifically, the Government is anticipating additional training services to include new training for:

cyber programs, unmanned aerial systems; electronic warfare testing; and infrastructure/power grid protection. Additionally, use of this contract is expected to increase by new customers to include DoE, DHS, and Army and Air force Cyber programs.

Q91. C.3 Scope C.3.4 Primary Task Area 4: Modify Curricula/ Courses/ Programs C.3.4.1 Contractor shall evaluate recommendations from tasks described in paragraph C.3.3 above and other Government guidance and design/develop changes to this curricula to assist in curricula customization and provide updates to ensure ongoing training remains relevant and current with mission requirements. What is the current methodology and process flow for evaluating and implementing recommendations?

A91. See section C.3.3, Continuous feedback throughout training, Reach‐forward/Reach‐back Capability, and current Techniques, Tactics, and Procedures.

Q92. C.4 Performance Requirements Summary (PRS) C.3.3.2. "C.3.3.2 Contractor shall provide a comprehensive review that includes feedback from all appropriate sources to include, students, subject matter experts, participants in each course/program, and any other office or agency as designated by the Government." Will the Government provide sample surveys and summaries from FY16?

A92. Sample surveys and summaries will be provided to the awardee in the post award conference.

Q93. C.7 General Information C.7.11.3.2 "C.7.11.3.2 The contractor shall obtain an Army Knowledge Online (AKO) email address for each applicant, including subcontractors, who may be deployed or require logical access to a government computer network. This can be done by going to:

http://www.us.army.mil and register as an ""Army Guest,"" with the sponsor being the COR or a COR designated individual if the COR is ineligible to Serve as an AKO Sponsor. Note: If an employee of a contractor loses the Privilege to access AKO, they lose the ability to renew their CAC. Therefore it is critical that contractor employees maintain their AKO accounts." Hasn't AKO been replaced with .mail.mil accounts? Does this element still apply?

A93. While army.mil accounts have been replaced with mail.mil accounts, the AKO requirement still applies.

Q94. C.7 General Information C.7.40.3 "C.7.40.3 The contractor is required to post at a minimum the following Department of Labor posters in all employee workplaces:" Does the Government provide office space to the Contractor? If so, what spaces are provided?

A94. See question 76.

Q95. C.7 General Information C.7.43 "C.7.43 Phase In / Phase Out Periods: To minimize any decreases in productivity and to prevent possible negative impacts on additional services, the contractor shall have personnel on board, during the 30 day phase in/phase out periods." Does the 30 day phase in/phase out period relate to the IDIQ or each Task Order or both?

A95. The phase out period relates to the Task Order.

Q96. Who is the current prime contractor and what is the contract number?

A96. See question 3.

Q97. What are the Labor Categories used on the current contract?

A97. See question 19.

Q98. What are the SCA labor categories on the current contract?

A98. See question 19.

Q99. What is the shift differential being used on the current contract?

A99. There is no shift differential being used.

Q100. What are the existing courses that have been developed under the current contract? Technical Exhibit 3 indicates that 4 have been designed, delivered, assessed, and modified in each of the last 3 years from 2014 – 2016.

A100. This question is not germane to submitting a proposal. Should an answer be required = (2) Ministry of Defense Advisor (MoDA), (1) Civilian Expeditionary Workforce (CEW), (1) OSD Senior Executive Service (SES) Training.

Q101. What courses are being given under the current contract? Technical Exhibit 3 indicates that 4 have been designed, delivered, assessed, and modified in each of the last 3 years from 2014 – 2016.

A101. This question is not germane to submitting a proposal. Should an answer be required = (2) Ministry of Defense Advisor (MoDA), (1) Civilian Expeditionary Workforce (CEW), (1) OSD Senior Executive Service (SES) Training.

Q102. Program Manager and Assistant Program Manager must be available during normal operating hours within 2 hours of notification to discuss emergency issues. Does this imply in person or is reachable by phone sufficient?

A102. See question 49.

Q103. For Past Performance Questionnaires, are CPARS acceptable in lieu of customers completing questionnaires. Our customers get bombarded with these requests and prefer the use of CPARS that convey the relevant performance information sought.

A103. See M.5.3.3.4.1 of solicitation.

Q104. What is the length of a standard training day for CEW and MoDA programs of instruction referenced in the Sample TO?

A104. The average training day for the current CEW and MoDA programs are 8‐10 hours per day.

Q105. What tasks will contractors be required to perform if asked to travel?

A105. If OCONUS travel is required, details and requirements will be provided in subsequent Task Orders. Travel for this purpose is primarily to observe, assess, and understand current training, techniques, and practices, in support of curricula development.

Q106. What logistical and materiel support will be needed to enable remote work?

A106. See C.7.44 of the solicitation for details.

Q107. What duration of CONUS or OCONUS travel support should the contractor anticipate?

A107. This requirement is unknown at this time. The level of support will be defined in subsequent TO’s.

Q108. IAW paragraph L.6.4.3 Section 3, "New Corporate Entities. New corporate entities may submit data on prior contracts involving its officers and employees." In such cases, who do we send the PPQ to? The prime contractor or the government?

A108. Completed PPQ forms should be sent to the Government.

Q109. What criteria and measures will the government apply in order to assess Satisfactory Confidence in the offerors ability to perform?

A109. See M.5.3 of the solicitation.

Q110. Does a Teaming Agreement meet the requirement for a Letter of Commitment (L.6.4)?

A110. Yes.

Q111. Is the past performance period of relevance within three years (L.6.4) or the past five years (M.5.3.3)?

A111. See question 15.

Q112. What certifications/qualifications are required for CTR WPNS Instructors?

A112. See question 62.

Q113. Will personnel attending training be bringing weapons from their prospective agencies or will CTR be drawing weapons for all students from A&M and be responsible for securing them throughout the training?

A113. Weapons will be issued by the Government to the deploying Students. Contractor is responsible for providing security of the weapons during training.

Q114. Will GOV provide holsters for students?

A114. Yes.

Q115. What is the location and hours of operation of A‐M arms rooms? Are those arms rooms run by CTR or the GOV?

A115. Normal duty hours, 0730‐1600. The Government operates the Arms rooms.

Q116. Which pistol qualification standard is currently used to certify CEW and MoDA personnel?

A116. DA Pam 350‐38, Standards in Training Commission, identifies M9, qualification Standard.

Q117. What is the desired classification level of the curriculum? (COIN and CIED)?

A117. For the purpose of the Sample TO, Not to exceed SECRET.

Q118. COIN and CIED are sufficiently specific subjects under “Military Training, COIN, and Counter IED” in the sample TO POI, but “Military” training is fairly broad brush. Can the GOV specify what they mean in that particular training set by “Military” training?

A118. For the purposes of the sample task order with one day allotted for the training of these topics, the Contractor shall select basic…