Strategic Research and Analysis, Communications, and Exhibits Services (SRACES)

Amendment 003 for the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) / George C. Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC) Request for Proposal (RFP) for the Strategic Research and Analysis, Communications, and Exhibits Services (SRACES) acquisition has been released.
 

The purpose of this amendment is to respond to RFP questions and comments in relation to the SRACES solicitation, Amendment 002.  Responses to questions/comments are provided in Attachment A, Clarifications to All Potential Offerors.

In relation to Section L, Provision MSFC 52.205-90, Designated Point of Contact (NOV 2018), paragraph (c), the period for questions or comments relative to this acquisition has closed.  At this time, the Government is no longer accepting additional questions or comments in relation to this solicitation or any of its amendments.

The due date for submission of SRACES proposals remains unchanged.

All terms and conditions of this solicitation remain unchanged since Amendment 002.

Offerors shall acknowledge receipt of this, Amendment 003, to the SRACES solicitation, in Block 14 of the SF33 for RFP 80MSFC19R0024.

This effort is a follow-on competition to the Strategic Analysis and Communications Support Services (COMMSS) Contract, #NNM12AA53C.  SRACES will provide MSFC's Office of Strategic Analysis and Communications (OSAC) comprehensive strategic research and analysis, communications, and exhibits services in implementing and maintaining an overarching communication strategy that clearly and consistently communicates NASA's strategic vision and guidance, along with MSFC's goals and business strategy, to both internal and external stakeholders.  The SRACES contractor will provide all necessary management, personnel, materials, equipment/supplies, travel, and training (not otherwise provided by the Government) necessary to perform these services.

Previous postings for this requirement include:

(1) On April 19, 2019, a Request for Information (RFI) / Sources Sought Notice (Solicitation Number: 80MSFC19R0024) was posted on FedBizOpps, requesting capability statements from small businesses, with a due date of May 3, 2019.

(2) On June 7, 2019, a Special Notice (Solicitation Number: 80MSFC19R0024) was posted on FedBizOpps to inform industry of a change in: (a) the North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code for this acquisition, to 541715 - Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences (except Nanotechnology and Biotechnology) / Aerospace Research and Development (except Prototype Production), with a corresponding size standard of 1,250 employees; and (b) the Product and Service Code (PSC) for this acquisition, to AR16 - Research and Development: Aeronautics and Space Technology / Management and Support.  In addition, the special notice sought to provide industry the names of RFI respondents that indicated an interest in potential contractor teaming arrangements, with the Government releasing those business names, their potential interest in this acquisition, and their corresponding Point of Contact (POC) information.  On June 10, 2019, two amendments were released to provide updates to RFI respondent's revised contact information.

(3) On August 9, 2019, a Presolicitation Synopsis (Solicitation Number: 80MSFC19R0024) was posted on FedBizOpps to inform industry of the anticipated release date of the Draft Request for Proposal (DRFP), in addition to notifying interested parties of the plan to conduct a virtual industry day briefing.

(4) On August 14, 2019, the DRFP (Solicitation Number: 80MSFC19R0024) was posted on FedBizOpps.

(5) On August 19, 2019, information presented and/or referenced at the Virtual Industry Day briefing (Solicitation Number: 80MSFC19R0024), as well as a list of registered attendees, was posted on FedBizOpps.

(6) On August 29, 2019, an amendment to the Presolicitation Synopsis (Solicitation Number: 80MSFC19R0024) was posted on FedBizOpps to inform industry of the anticipated release date of the RFP.

(7) On September 5, 2019, the SRACES RFP (Solicitation Number: 80MSFC19R0024) was posted on FedBizOpps.

(8) On September 17, 2019, the SRACES RFP Amendment 001 (Solicitation Number: 80MSFC19R0024) was posted on FedBizOpps.

(9) On September 25, 2019, the SRACES RFP Amendment 002 (Solicitation Number: 80MSFC19R0024) was posted on FedBizOpps.

Potential Offerors are responsible for downloading their own copy of the solicitation in its entirety.  Further, it is the Offeror's responsibility to monitor FedBizOpps for any further amendments to the solicitation.

Amendment 002 for the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) / George C. Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC) Request for Proposal (RFP) for the Strategic Research and Analysis, Communications, and Exhibits Services (SRACES) acquisition has been released.

The purpose of this amendment is to respond to RFP questions and comments in relation to the SRACES solicitation, Amendment 001. Responses to questions/comments are provided in Attachment A, Clarifications to All Potential Offerors. Resulting changes to the RFP are provided Attachment B, Summary of Changes Between RFP Amendment 001 and Amendment 002. As a result of this amendment, revised section(s) / clause (s) / provision(s) / attachment page(s) have been provided as a separate / conformed solicitation file, with changes noted by a vertical line in the right column.

In relation to Section L, Provision MSFC 52.205-90, Designated Point of Contact (NOV 2018), paragraph (c), the period for questions or comments relative to this acquisition has closed (i.e., questions and comments relative to this acquisition were previously due no later than 4:00 p.m. Central Time, September 10, 2019). At this time, the Government is no longer accepting additional questions or comments in relation to the solicitation, as released on September 5, 2019, or Amendment 001, as released on September 17, 2019. That notwithstanding, new questions/comments are conditionally permitted, provided they are limited to Amendment 002 changes/information contained herein. Submission of questions or comments in relation to Amendment 002 shall be submitted via email to the designated point of contact (in accordance with the aforementioned provision), no later than 2:00 p.m. Central Time, September 27, 2019.

The due date for submission of SRACES proposals remains unchanged.

Offerors shall acknowledge receipt of this, Amendment 002, to the SRACES solicitation, in Block 14 of the SF33 for RFP 80MSFC19R0024.

This effort is a follow-on competition to the Strategic Analysis and Communications Support Services (COMMSS) Contract, #NNM12AA53C. SRACES will provide MSFC's Office of Strategic Analysis and Communications (OSAC) comprehensive strategic research and analysis, communications, and exhibits services in implementing and maintaining an overarching communication strategy that clearly and consistently communicates NASA's strategic vision and guidance, along with MSFC's goals and business strategy, to both internal and external stakeholders. The SRACES contractor will provide all necessary management, personnel, materials, equipment/supplies, travel, and training (not otherwise provided by the Government) necessary to perform these services.

Previous postings for this requirement include:

(1) On April 19, 2019, a Request for Information (RFI) / Sources Sought Notice (Solicitation Number: 80MSFC19R0024) was posted on FedBizOpps, requesting capability statements from small businesses, with a due date of May 3, 2019.

(2) On June 7, 2019, a Special Notice (Solicitation Number: 80MSFC19R0024) was posted on FedBizOpps to inform industry of a change in: (a) the North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code for this acquisition, to 541715 - Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences (except Nanotechnology and Biotechnology) / Aerospace Research and Development (except Prototype Production), with a corresponding size standard of 1,250 employees; and (b) the Product and Service Code (PSC) for this acquisition, to AR16 - Research and Development: Aeronautics and Space Technology / Management and Support. In addition, the special notice sought to provide industry the names of RFI respondents that indicated an interest in potential contractor teaming arrangements, with the Government releasing those business names, their potential interest in this acquisition, and their corresponding Point of Contact (POC) information. On June 10, 2019, two amendments were released to provide updates to RFI respondent's revised contact information.

(3) On August 9, 2019, a Presolicitation Synopsis (Solicitation Number: 80MSFC19R0024) was posted on FedBizOpps to inform industry of the anticipated release date of the Draft Request for Proposal (DRFP), in addition to notifying interested parties of the plan to conduct a virtual industry day briefing.

(4) On August 14, 2019, the DRFP (Solicitation Number: 80MSFC19R0024) was posted on FedBizOpps.

(5) On August 19, 2019, information presented and/or referenced at the Virtual Industry Day briefing (Solicitation Number: 80MSFC19R0024), as well as a list of registered attendees, was posted on FedBizOpps.

(6) On August 29, 2019, an amendment to the Presolicitation Synopsis (Solicitation Number: 80MSFC19R0024) was posted on FedBizOpps to inform industry of the anticipated release date of the RFP.

(7) On September 5, 2019, the SRACES RFP (Solicitation Number: 80MSFC19R0024) was posted on FedBizOpps.

(8) On September 17, 2019, the SRACES RFP Amendment 001 (Solicitation Number: 80MSFC19R0024) was posted on FedBizOpps.

Potential Offerors are responsible for downloading their own copy of the solicitation in its entirety. Further, it is the Offeror's responsibility to monitor FedBizOpps for any further amendments to the solicitation.

Amendment 001 for the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) / George C. Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC) Request for Proposal (RFP) for the Strategic Research and Analysis, Communications, and Exhibits Services (SRACES) acquisition has been released.

The purpose of this amendment is to respond to RFP questions and comments in relation to the SRACES solicitation. Responses to questions/comments are provided in Attachment A, Clarifications to All Potential Offerors. Resulting changes to the RFP are provided Attachment B, Summary of Changes Between RFP and Amendment 001. As a result of this amendment, revised section(s) / clause (s) / provision(s) / attachment page(s) have provided as a separate file, with changes noted by a vertical line in the right column.

The due date for submission of SRACES proposals remains unchanged.

Offerors shall acknowledge receipt of this, Amendment 001, to the SRACES solicitation, in Block 14 of the SF33 for RFP 80MSFC19R0024.

This effort is a follow-on competition to the Strategic Analysis and Communications Support Services (COMMSS) Contract, #NNM12AA53C. SRACES will provide MSFC's Office of Strategic Analysis and Communications (OSAC) comprehensive strategic research and analysis, communications, and exhibits services in implementing and maintaining an overarching communication strategy that clearly and consistently communicates NASA's strategic vision and guidance, along with MSFC's goals and business strategy, to both internal and external stakeholders. The SRACES contractor will provide all necessary management, personnel, materials, equipment/supplies, travel, and training (not otherwise provided by the Government) necessary to perform these services.

Previous postings for this requirement include:

(1) On April 19, 2019, a Request for Information (RFI) / Sources Sought Notice (Solicitation Number: 80MSFC19R0024) was posted on FedBizOpps, requesting capability statements from small businesses, with a due date of May 3, 2019.

(2) On June 7, 2019, a Special Notice (Solicitation Number: 80MSFC19R0024) was posted on FedBizOpps to inform industry of a change in: (a) the North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code for this acquisition, to 541715 - Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences (except Nanotechnology and Biotechnology) / Aerospace Research and Development (except Prototype Production), with a corresponding size standard of 1,250 employees; and (b) the Product and Service Code (PSC) for this acquisition, to AR16 - Research and Development: Aeronautics and Space Technology / Management and Support. In addition, the special notice sought to provide industry the names of RFI respondents that indicated an interest in potential contractor teaming arrangements, with the Government releasing those business names, their potential interest in this acquisition, and their corresponding Point of Contact (POC) information. On June 10, 2019, two amendments were released to provide updates to RFI respondent's revised contact information.

(3) On August 9, 2019, a Presolicitation Synopsis (Solicitation Number: 80MSFC19R0024) was posted on FedBizOpps to inform industry of the anticipated release date of the Draft Request for Proposal (DRFP), in addition to notifying interested parties of the plan to conduct a virtual industry day briefing.

(4) On August 14, 2019, the DRFP (Solicitation Number: 80MSFC19R0024) was posted on FedBizOpps.

(5) On August 19, 2019, information presented and/or referenced at the Virtual Industry Day briefing (Solicitation Number: 80MSFC19R0024), as well as a list of registered attendees, was posted on FedBizOpps.

(6) On August 29, 2019, an amendment to the Presolicitation Synopsis (Solicitation Number: 80MSFC19R0024) was posted on FedBizOpps to inform industry of the anticipated release date of the RFP.

(7) On September 5, 2019, the SRACES RFP (Solicitation Number: 80MSFC19R0024) was posted on FedBizOpps.

Potential Offerors are responsible for downloading their own copy of the solicitation in its entirety. Further, it is the Offeror's responsibility to monitor FedBizOpps for any further amendments to the solicitation.

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) / George C. Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC) Request for Proposal (RFP) for the Strategic Research and Analysis, Communications, and Exhibits Services (SRACES) acquisition has been released.
All questions regarding the RFP/solicitation shall be submitted via email to the individual noted in the provision MSFC 52.205-90, Designated Point of Contact.   The due date for receipt of questions from industry is 4:00 p.m., Central Time, September 10, 2019.  Any questions submitted by this deadline will be answered as an amendment to the solicitation.   As part of any resultant proposals, offerors shall acknowledge receipt of all solicitation amendments, if any.

This effort is a follow-on competition to the Strategic Analysis and Communications Support Services (COMMSS) Contract, #NNM12AA53C.  SRACES will provide MSFC's Office of Strategic Analysis and Communications (OSAC) comprehensive strategic research and analysis, communications, and exhibits services in implementing and maintaining an overarching communication strategy that clearly and consistently communicates NASA's strategic vision and guidance, along with MSFC's goals and business strategy, to both internal and external stakeholders.  The SRACES contractor will provide all necessary management, personnel, materials, equipment/supplies, travel, and training (not otherwise provided by the Government) necessary to perform these services.

Previous postings for this requirement include:

(1) On April 19, 2019, a Request for Information (RFI) / Sources Sought Notice (Solicitation Number: 80MSFC19R0024) was posted on FedBizOpps, requesting capability statements from small businesses, with a due date of May 3, 2019.

(2) On June 7, 2019, a Special Notice (Solicitation Number: 80MSFC19R0024) was posted on FedBizOpps to inform industry of a change in: (a) the North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code for this acquisition, to 541715 - Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences (except Nanotechnology and Biotechnology) / Aerospace Research and Development (except Prototype Production), with a corresponding size standard of 1,250 employees; and (b) the Product and Service Code (PSC) for this acquisition, to AR16 - Research and Development: Aeronautics and Space Technology / Management and Support.  In addition, the special notice sought to provide industry the names of RFI respondents that indicated an interest in potential contractor teaming arrangements, with the Government releasing those business names, their potential interest in this acquisition, and their corresponding Point of Contact (POC) information.   On June 10, 2019, two amendments were released to provide updates to RFI respondent's revised contact information.

(3) On August 9, 2019, a Presolicitation Synopsis (Solicitation Number: 80MSFC19R0024) was posted on FedBizOpps to inform industry of the anticipated release date of the DRFP, in addition to notifying interested parties of the plan to conduct a virtual industry day briefing.

(4) On August 14, 2019, the Draft Request for Proposal (DRFP) (Solicitation Number: 80MSFC19R0024) was posted on FedBizOpps.

(5) On August 19, 2019, information presented and/or referenced at the Virtual Industry Day briefing (Solicitation Number: 80MSFC19R0024), as well as a list of registered attendees, was posted on FedBizOpps.

(6) On August 29, 2019, an amendment to the Presolicitation Synopsis (Solicitation Number: 80MSFC19R0024) was posted on FedBizOpps to inform industry of the anticipated release date of the RFP.

Potential offerors are responsible for downloading their own copy of the solicitation in its entirety.  Further, it is the offeror's responsibility to monitor FedBizOpps for any amendments to the solicitation.

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) / George C. Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC) Draft Request for Proposal (DRFP) for the Strategic Research and Analysis, Communications, and Exhibits Services (SRACES) acquisition has been released.

This DRFP is not a solicitation and NASA is not requesting proposals.  The issuance of this DRFP does not commit NASA/MSFC to pay any proposal preparation costs or obligate NASA/MSFC to procure or contract for these services, nor should it be construed as authorization to proceed with, or be paid for any charges incurred by, performing any of the work described herein.

A Virtual Industry Day briefing was conducted on August 19, 2019, 2:00 p.m., Central Time.  Attendance at the briefing was neither required nor a prerequisite for proposal submission and will not be considered in the evaluation.  Virtual Industry Day Presentation Slides; Registered Participants; Sample Performance Work Statement (PWS) Service Products plus Locality and Exhibit Photos; and Video (of Model Shop, Warehouse Storage, USSRC, Exploration Gallery) have been uploaded to FedBizOpps.

This effort is a follow-on competition to the Strategic Analysis and Communications Support Services (COMMSS) Contract, #NNM12AA53C.  SRACES will provide MSFC's Office of Strategic Analysis and Communications (OSAC) comprehensive strategic research and analysis, communications, and exhibits services in implementing and maintaining an overarching communication strategy that clearly and consistently communicates NASA's strategic vision and guidance, along with MSFC's goals and business strategy, to both internal and external stakeholders.  The SRACES contractor will provide all necessary management, personnel, materials, equipment/supplies, travel, and training (not otherwise provided by the Government) necessary to perform these services.

The Government intends to solicit offers using FAR Part 15, Contracting by Negotiation, and NFS 1815, Contracting by Negotiation.  The envisioned procurement is to be conducted by a source evaluation board in accordance with procedures prescribed by FAR and NFS.  Upon issuance of a final Request for Proposal (RFP)/solicitation, all responsible sources may submit an offer in response to the solicitation which will be considered by the Agency.

The SRACES acquisition is anticipated to be a total small business set-aside.  The Government contemplates awarding SRACES as a firm-fixed-price contract with an indefinite-delivery indefinite-quantity (IDIQ) component, to include performance-based deductions, resulting from this solicitation.

The anticipated release date of the final RFP/solicitation is on or about September 5, 2019, with an anticipated proposal due date on or about October 7, 2019.

Previous postings for this requirement include:

(1) On April 19, 2019, a Request for Information (RFI) / Sources Sought Notice (Solicitation Number: 80MSFC19R0024) was posted on FedBizOpps, requesting capability statements from small businesses, with a due date of May 3, 2019.

(2) On June 7, 2019, a Special Notice (Solicitation Number: 80MSFC19R0024) was posted on FedBizOpps to inform industry of a change in: (a) the North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code for this acquisition, to 541715 - Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences (except Nanotechnology and Biotechnology) / Aerospace Research and Development (except Prototype Production), with a corresponding size standard of 1,250 employees; and (b) the Product and Service Code (PSC) for this acquisition, to AR16 - Research and Development: Aeronautics and Space Technology / Management and Support. In addition, the special notice sought to provide industry the names of RFI respondents that indicated an interest in potential contractor teaming arrangements, with the Government releasing those business names, their potential interest in this acquisition, and their corresponding Point of Contact (POC) information.   On June 10, 2019, two amendments were released to provide updates to RFI respondent's revised contact information.

(3) On August 9, 2019, a Presolicitation Synopsis (Solicitation Number: 80MSFC19R0024) was posted on FedBizOpps to inform industry of the anticipated release date of the DRFP, in addition to notifying interested parties of the plan to conduct a virtual industry day briefing.

(4) On August 14, 2019, the Draft Request for Proposal (DRFP) (Solicitation Number: 80MSFC19R0024) was posted on FedBizOpps.

(5) On August 19, 2019, information presented and/or referenced at the Virtual Industry Day briefing (Solicitation Number: 80MSFC19R0024), as well as a list of registered attendees, was posted on FedBizOpps.

NFS Clause 1852.215-84, Ombudsman, is applicable.   The Center Ombudsman for this acquisition can be found at: https://prod.nais.nasa.gov/pub/pub_library/Omb.html

It is the offeror's responsibility to monitor FedBizOpps for release of the final RFP/solicitation and any amendments thereto.  Potential offerors will be responsible for downloading their own copy of the solicitation in its entirety.

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) / George C. Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC) Draft Request for Proposal (DRFP) for the Strategic Research and Analysis, Communications, and Exhibits Services (SRACES) acquisition has been released.
 

This DRFP is issued as an acquisition-planning instrument and a means of soliciting industry comments for use in developing the final Request for Proposal (RFP). This DRFP is not a solicitation and NASA is not requesting proposals. The issuance of this DRFP does not commit NASA/MSFC to pay any proposal preparation costs or obligate NASA/MSFC to procure or contract for these services, nor should it be construed as authorization to proceed with, or be paid for any charges incurred by, performing any of the work described herein.

The purpose of this document is to assist the Government in developing the highest quality final RFP. In accordance with NASA Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) Supplement (NFS) 1815.201, Exchanges with Industry Before Receipt of Proposals, prospective offerors are invited to: (1) comment on all aspects of the DRFP, including the requirements, schedules, proposal instructions, and evaluation approaches; (2) identify unnecessary or inefficient requirements; (3) comment on any perceived safety, occupational health, security (including information technology security), environmental, export control, or other programmatic risk issues associated with performance of the work; and (4) identify any voluntary consensus standards that meet the Government's requirements as alternatives to Government-unique standards cited as requirements herein, in accordance with FAR 11.101 and Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Circular A-119.

All prospective offerors are requested to review the DRFP and submit comments and questions via email to the individual specified in Section L, MSFC 52.205-90, Designated Point of Contact, by 2:00 p.m. Central Time on August 21, 2019. Telephone inquiries will not be accepted. Responses to comments or questions, which will be considered in formulation of the final RFP, will be at the discretion of the Government. In addition, prospective offerors are requested to notify the individual specified in Section L, MSFC 52.205-90, Designated Point of Contact, by email of their intent to submit an offer.

A virtual industry day briefing was conducted in accordance with Section L, MSFC 52.210-91, Virtual Industry Day Meeting. Virtual Industry Day Presentation Slides; Registered Participants; Sample PWS Service Products plus Locality and Exhibit Photos; and Video of Model Shop, Warehouse Storage, USSRC, Exploration Gallery have been uploaded to FBO.

This effort is a follow-on competition to the Strategic Analysis and Communications Support Services (COMMSS) Contract, #NNM12AA53C. SRACES will provide MSFC's Office of Strategic Analysis and Communications (OSAC) comprehensive strategic research and analysis, communications, and exhibits services in implementing and maintaining an overarching communication strategy that clearly and consistently communicates NASA's strategic vision and guidance, along with MSFC's goals and business strategy, to both internal and external stakeholders. The SRACES contractor will provide all necessary management, personnel, materials, equipment/supplies, travel, and training (not otherwise provided by the Government) necessary to perform these services.

The Government intends to solicit offers using FAR Part 15, Contracting by Negotiation, and NFS 1815, Contracting by Negotiation. The envisioned procurement is to be conducted by a source evaluation board in accordance with procedures prescribed by FAR and NFS. Upon issuance of a final RFP, all responsible sources may submit an offer in response to the solicitation which will be considered by the Agency.

The SRACES acquisition is anticipated to be a total small business set-aside. The Government contemplates awarding SRACES as a firm-fixed-price contract with an indefinite-delivery indefinite-quantity (IDIQ) component, to include performance-based deductions, resulting from this solicitation.

Previous postings for this requirement include:

(1) On April 19, 2019, a Request for Information (RFI) / Sources Sought Notice (Solicitation Number: 80MSFC19R0024) was posted on FedBizOpps, requesting capability statements from small businesses, with a due date of May 3, 2019.

(2) On June 7, 2019, a Special Notice (Solicitation Number: 80MSFC19R0024) was posted on FedBizOpps to inform industry of a change in: (a) the North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code for this acquisition, to 541715 - Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences (except Nanotechnology and Biotechnology) / Aerospace Research and Development (except Prototype Production), with a corresponding size standard of 1,250 employees; and (b) the Product and Service Code (PSC) for this acquisition, to AR16 - Research and Development: Aeronautics and Space Technology / Management and Support. In addition, the special notice sought to provide industry the names of RFI respondents that indicated an interest in potential contractor teaming arrangements, with the Government releasing those business names, their potential interest in this acquisition, and their corresponding Point of Contact (POC) information. On June 10, 2019, two amendments were released to provide updates to RFI respondent's revised contact information.

(3) On August 9, 2019, a Presolicitation Synopsis (Solicitation Number: 80MSFC19R0024) was posted on FedBizOpps to inform industry of the anticipated release date of the DRFP, in addition to notifying interested parties of the plan to conduct a virtual industry day briefing.

(4) On August 14, 2019, the Draft Request for Proposal (DRFP) (Solicitation Number: 80MSFC19R0024) was posted on FedBizOpps.

NFS Clause 1852.215-84, Ombudsman, is applicable. The Center Ombudsman for this acquisition can be found at: https://prod.nais.nasa.gov/pub/pub_library/Omb.html

It is the offeror's responsibility to monitor FedBizOpps for release of the final RFP and any amendments thereto. Potential offerors will be responsible for downloading their own copy of the solicitation in its entirety.

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) / George C. Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC) Draft Request for Proposal (DRFP) for the Strategic Research and Analysis, Communications, and Exhibits Services (SRACES) acquisition has been released.

This DRFP is issued as an acquisition-planning instrument and a means of soliciting industry comments for use in developing the final Request for Proposal (RFP). This DRFP is not a solicitation and NASA is not requesting proposals. The issuance of this DRFP does not commit NASA/MSFC to pay any proposal preparation costs or obligate NASA/MSFC to procure or contract for these services, nor should it be construed as authorization to proceed with, or be paid for any charges incurred by, performing any of the work described herein.

The purpose of this document is to assist the Government in developing the highest quality final RFP. In accordance with NASA Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) Supplement (NFS) 1815.201, Exchanges with Industry Before Receipt of Proposals, prospective offerors are invited to: (1) comment on all aspects of the DRFP, including the requirements, schedules, proposal instructions, and evaluation approaches; (2) identify unnecessary or inefficient requirements; (3) comment on any perceived safety, occupational health, security (including information technology security), environmental, export control, or other programmatic risk issues associated with performance of the work; and (4) identify any voluntary consensus standards that meet the Government's requirements as alternatives to Government-unique standards cited as requirements herein, in accordance with FAR 11.101 and Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Circular A-119.

All prospective offerors are requested to review the DRFP and submit comments and questions via email to the individual specified in Section L, MSFC 52.205-90, Designated Point of Contact, by 2:00 p.m. Central Time on August 21, 2019. Telephone inquiries will not be accepted. Responses to comments or questions, which will be considered in formulation of the final RFP, will be at the discretion of the Government. In addition, prospective offerors are requested to notify the individual specified in Section L, MSFC 52.205-90, Designated Point of Contact, by email of their intent to submit an offer.

A virtual industry day briefing has been scheduled in accordance with Section L, MSFC 52.210-91, Virtual Industry Day Meeting. Interested parties shall monitor FedBizOpps (http://www.fbo.gov) for any changes to the date and/or time of the briefing. Interested parties are requested to register for the briefing no later than 2:00 p.m. Central Time on August 16, 2019, by providing a complete listing of personnel, via email, to the individual specified in MSFC 52.205-90, Designated Point of Contact.

This effort is a follow-on competition to the Strategic Analysis and Communications Support Services (COMMSS) Contract, #NNM12AA53C. SRACES will provide MSFC's Office of Strategic Analysis and Communications (OSAC) comprehensive strategic research and analysis, communications, and exhibits services in implementing and maintaining an overarching communication strategy that clearly and consistently communicates NASA's strategic vision and guidance, along with MSFC's goals and business strategy, to both internal and external stakeholders. The SRACES contractor will provide all necessary management, personnel, materials, equipment/supplies, travel, and training (not otherwise provided by the Government) necessary to perform these services.

The Government intends to solicit offers using FAR Part 15, Contracting by Negotiation, and NFS 1815, Contracting by Negotiation. The envisioned procurement is to be conducted by a source evaluation board in accordance with procedures prescribed by FAR and NFS. Upon issuance of a final RFP, all responsible sources may submit an offer in response to the solicitation which will be considered by the Agency.

The SRACES acquisition is anticipated to be a total small business set-aside. The Government contemplates awarding SRACES as a firm-fixed-price contract with an indefinite-delivery indefinite-quantity (IDIQ) component, to include performance-based deductions, resulting from this solicitation.

Previous postings for this requirement include:

(1) On April 19, 2019, a Request for Information (RFI) / Sources Sought Notice (Solicitation Number: 80MSFC19R0024) was posted on FedBizOpps, requesting capability statements from small businesses, with a due date of May 3, 2019.

(2) On June 7, 2019, a Special Notice (Solicitation Number: 80MSFC19R0024) was posted on FedBizOpps to inform industry of a change in: (a) the North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code for this acquisition, to 541715 - Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences (except Nanotechnology and Biotechnology) / Aerospace Research and Development (except Prototype Production), with a corresponding size standard of 1,250 employees; and (b) the Product and Service Code (PSC) for this acquisition, to AR16 - Research and Development: Aeronautics and Space Technology / Management and Support. In addition, the special notice sought to provide industry the names of RFI respondents that indicated an interest in potential contractor teaming arrangements, with the Government releasing those business names, their potential interest in this acquisition, and their corresponding Point of Contact (POC) information. On June 10, 2019, two amendments were released to provide updates to RFI respondent's revised contact information.

(3) On August 9, 2019, a Presolicitation Synopsis (Solicitation Number: 80MSFC19R0024) was posted on FedBizOpps to inform industry of the anticipated release date of the DRFP, in addition to notifying interested parties of the plan to conduct a virtual industry day briefing.

NFS Clause 1852.215-84, Ombudsman, is applicable. The Center Ombudsman for this acquisition can be found at: https://prod.nais.nasa.gov/pub/pub_library/Omb.html

It is the offeror's responsibility to monitor FedBizOpps for release of the final RFP and any amendments thereto. Potential offerors will be responsible for downloading their own copy of the solicitation in its entirety.

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) George C. Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC) is issuing this presolicitation synopsis (Solicitation Number: #80MSFC19R0024) as a means of communicating with industry interested in supporting the requirements of the Strategic Research and Analysis, Communications, and Exhibits Services (SRACES) acquisition activity.

This presolicitation synopsis is a follow-on competition to the Strategic Analysis and Communications Support Services (COMMSS) Contract, #NNM12AA53C. SRACES will provide MSFC's Office of Strategic Analysis and Communications (OSAC) comprehensive strategic research and analysis, communications, and exhibits services in implementing and maintaining an overarching communication strategy that clearly and consistently communicates NASA's strategic vision and guidance, along with MSFC's goals and business strategy, to both internal and external stakeholders. The SRACES contractor will provide all necessary management, personnel, materials, equipment/supplies, travel, and training (not otherwise provided by the Government) necessary to perform these services.

The Government intends to solicit offers using Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) Part 15, Contracting by Negotiation, and NASA FAR Supplement (NFS) 1815, Contracting by Negotiation. All responsible sources may submit an offer in response to the solicitation which will be considered by the Agency.

The SRACES acquisition is anticipated to be a total small business set-aside. The Government contemplates awarding SRACES as a firm-fixed-price contract with an indefinite-delivery indefinite-quantity (IDIQ) component, to include performance-based deductions, resulting from this solicitation.

Previous postings for this requirement include:

(1) On April 19, 2019, a Request for Information (RFI) / Sources Sought Notice (Solicitation Number: 80MSFC19R0024) was posted on FedBizOpps, requesting capability statements from small businesses, with a due date of May 3, 2019.

(2) On June 7, 2019, a Special Notice (Solicitation Number: 80MSFC19R0024) was posted on FedBizOpps to inform industry of a change in: (a) the North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code for this acquisition, to 541715 - Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences (except Nanotechnology and Biotechnology) / Aerospace Research and Development (except Prototype Production), with a corresponding size standard of 1,250 employees; and (b) the Product and Service Code (PSC) for this acquisition, to AR16 - Research and Development: Aeronautics and Space Technology / Management and Support. In addition, the special notice sought to provide industry the names of RFI respondents that indicated an interest in potential contractor teaming arrangements, with the Government releasing those business names, their potential interest in this acquisition, and their corresponding Point of Contact (POC) information. On June 10, 2019, two amendments were released to provide updates to RFI respondent's revised contact information.

The anticipated release date of the Draft Request for Proposal (DRFP) is on or about August 14, 2019, to seek industry comments for the SRACES requirement. This DRFP is intended as an acquisition planning instrument, as well as a means of soliciting industry comments for use in developing the final Request for Proposal (RFP)/solicitation. Comments in relation to the DRFP are anticipated to be due on or about August 21, 2019. Responses to comments or questions to the DRFP, which will be considered in formulation of the final RFP, will be at the discretion of the Government.

The Government intends to conduct a virtual industry day briefing on or about August 19, 2019, to provide details regarding key features of the DRFP. Interested parties are required to register for the virtual industry day meeting no later than August 16, 2019, 2:00 p.m. Central Time, by contacting the individual specified below as the Primary Point of Contact, by providing a complete listing of personnel anticipated to attend. Skype for Business will be required to access the visual presentation portion of the conference. Additional virtual industry day information will be provided upon issuance of the DRFP. The presented virtual industry day charts, along with any additional visual information presented, including a list of all attendees participating in the virtual industry day meeting, will be made available to all interested parties via the FedBizOpps web site (https://www.fbo.gov).

NFS Clause 1852.215-84, Ombudsman, is applicable. The Center Ombudsman for this acquisition can be found at: https://prod.nais.nasa.gov/pub/pub_library/Omb.html

Telephone inquiries will not be accepted. All questions shall be submitted in writing by email, to the Primary Point of Contact shown below (James S. Casper, at: james.s.casper@nasa.gov).

Prospective offerors are requested to notify the Primary Point of Contact by email of their intent to submit an offer.

The DRFP and any supporting documents related to this acquisition will be available at the FedBizOpps website at https://www.fbo.gov. It continues to be the responsibility of each interested party or prospective offeror to monitor this web site for the release of the DRFP, RFP/solicitation, and/or any amendments related to this acquisition.