Modification to Research Studies - RFI

The Department of Labor's Office of the Assistant Secretary for Administration and Management, specifically the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), has issued a Special Notice regarding a Request for Information (RFI) for participant recruiting services for research studies. This notice seeks potential vendors capable of recruiting participants for studies conducted by the Office of Survey Methods Research (OSMR) Behavioral Science Research Center. The RFI targets vendors who can support recruitment for research studies involving various participant groups, including individuals with specific job types, BLS product users, or those meeting particular demographic criteria. The notice covers a broad recruitment effort expected to involve 200-300 participants annually, with individual studies ranging from 10 to 100 participants. Studies may be conducted virtually or in-person in Washington, DC, with monetary incentives ranging from $50 for 60-minute sessions to $90 for 1.5-hour focus groups.

The primary objective of this Special Notice is to gather information from potential contractors about their capabilities to support BLS research participant recruitment. Contractors must submit detailed capabilities information and rough order of magnitude pricing in responses limited to 30 pages, with submissions due by December 23, 2024, at 12:00 PM EST. The BLS is exploring the possibility of either setting aside the opportunity for small businesses or proceeding with full and open competition, potentially resulting in multiple awards. Key requirements include maintaining participant confidentiality, handling personally identifiable information according to government regulations, and coordinating closely with BLS/OSMR staff on recruitment strategies. Vendors will be responsible for developing advertisements, managing participant communications, and providing regular status updates. The agency emphasizes strict adherence to privacy standards and will handle Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA) clearances, while expecting contractors to provide comprehensive recruitment details. This RFI serves as a preliminary step for the BLS to assess market capabilities and determine budgetary requirements for future research participant recruiting efforts.