Diplomas for the University of Wisconsin System

The University of Wisconsin System Administration Office of Procurement is seeking a vendor to provide diploma production services for all four-year and two-year campuses within the Wisconsin university system. The procurement encompasses the production and purchase of diploma covers, diploma inserts, and miniature diplomas in two sizes (8" x 6" and 10" x 8"), with estimated annual volumes of 30,000 covers (10x8), 6,000 covers (8x6), 10,000 inserts, and 15,000 direct mail inserts. Key requirements include specific paper stock specifications, ink formulations, layout and formatting standards, security features, and quality control measures. Vendors must demonstrate capabilities in producing diplomas that meet detailed specifications, including digital signature, encryption, and unique alphanumeric codes for electronic diploma verification. The solicitation requires vendors to have been in the diploma printing and supply business for a minimum of five years with experience serving large campuses. Written questions were due by September 29, 2017, with bids submitted by October 13, 2017, at 2:00 PM, and an estimated contract award date of October 25, 2017.

The contract does not specify specific set-aside designations or restrictions for disadvantaged enterprises. Vendors must provide a $25,000 performance bond or irrevocable letter of credit prior to contract award and submit three client references. The successful contractor will be required to offer direct mail capabilities with web-based ordering, PDF and certified electronic document options, and fulfillment within 10 days of order submission. The contract will have an initial one-year term with two optional one-year extensions, for a maximum contractual length of three years. While specific budget ranges are not explicitly stated, the procurement involves high-volume diploma production across multiple UW System institutions. The University reserves the right to cancel the contract on any contract anniversary date with 180 days' written notice or terminate for breach with 10 days' written notice. Award will be made to the lowest responsible, responsive bidder based on the grand total bid price combining covers, inserts, and added features.