The ERDCWERX Process
What is ERDCWERX?
ERDCWERX is an innovation hub of DEFENSEWERX, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. It was created under a Partnership Intermediary Agreement between DEFENSEWERX and the U.S. Army Engineer Research and Development Center (ERDC) to help identify new partnerships for innovation and commercialization.
What is a partnership intermediary?
A partnership intermediary is a not-for-profit entity or agency which is owned, chartered, funded, operated in whole or in part by a State or local government "that assists, counsels, advises, evaluates, or otherwise cooperates with small business firms" or educational institutions "that need or can make demonstratively productive use of technology related assistance from a Federal laboratory" (Authority: 15 USC 3715).
How does the partnership intermediary benefit the ERDC?
The partnership intermediary allows the ERDC to:
Is there a cost to join the ERDCWERX ecosystem?
There is no cost to sign up/join the ERDCWERX ecosystem. Those signed up will directly receive announcements regarding new project opportunities. The ecosystem sign-up form can be accessed here.
Who are current participants in the ERDCWERX ecosystem?
The ERDCWERX ecosystem represents individuals who have requested to be added to a mailing list. Additionally, the list is supplemented with the names of individuals whose skills or organization capabilities could be a fit for current or upcoming projects.
How do I join the ERDCWERX ecosystem?
The ecosystem sign-up form can be accessed here.
Once I join the ERDCWERX ecosystem, what are the next steps?
Please watch for project announcements via email. Some projects will have open submission schedules while others will have specific deadlines. We encourage recipients to share project announcements with others in your network that you believe may have a potential interest or fit.
Who can join the ERDCWERX ecosystem?
Any individual, company, federal/non-federal agency, consortium, etc. Joining the ecosystem links you to ERDCWERX by adding you to the email distribution list which supports instant notification regarding all ERDCWERX opportunities.
ERDCWERX is an innovation hub of DEFENSEWERX, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. It was created under a Partnership Intermediary Agreement between DEFENSEWERX and the U.S. Army Engineer Research and Development Center (ERDC) to help identify new partnerships for innovation and commercialization.
What is a partnership intermediary?
A partnership intermediary is a not-for-profit entity or agency which is owned, chartered, funded, operated in whole or in part by a State or local government "that assists, counsels, advises, evaluates, or otherwise cooperates with small business firms" or educational institutions "that need or can make demonstratively productive use of technology related assistance from a Federal laboratory" (Authority: 15 USC 3715).
How does the partnership intermediary benefit the ERDC?
The partnership intermediary allows the ERDC to:
- drive technologies faster, more cost effectively, and through more channels to meet warfighter needs, accelerating tech transition;
- identify new opportunities for collaboration, leveraging ERDC technologies, IP portfolios, and unique testing and facility capabilities;
- solve complex technical challenges, finding new solution providers; structuring partnerships and facilitating technology transfer opportunities; and
- create new business environments, enabling the ERDC to do tasks that are difficult or impossible inside the fence, discovering unrealized opportunities that convert innovation into valued outcomes.
Is there a cost to join the ERDCWERX ecosystem?
There is no cost to sign up/join the ERDCWERX ecosystem. Those signed up will directly receive announcements regarding new project opportunities. The ecosystem sign-up form can be accessed here.
Who are current participants in the ERDCWERX ecosystem?
The ERDCWERX ecosystem represents individuals who have requested to be added to a mailing list. Additionally, the list is supplemented with the names of individuals whose skills or organization capabilities could be a fit for current or upcoming projects.
How do I join the ERDCWERX ecosystem?
The ecosystem sign-up form can be accessed here.
Once I join the ERDCWERX ecosystem, what are the next steps?
Please watch for project announcements via email. Some projects will have open submission schedules while others will have specific deadlines. We encourage recipients to share project announcements with others in your network that you believe may have a potential interest or fit.
Who can join the ERDCWERX ecosystem?
Any individual, company, federal/non-federal agency, consortium, etc. Joining the ecosystem links you to ERDCWERX by adding you to the email distribution list which supports instant notification regarding all ERDCWERX opportunities.
Tech Challenges
Who is eligible to participate in ERDCWERX tech challenges?
Industry, academia, national labs, individual innovators, and other parties are invited to apply for consideration. ERDCWERX tech challenges do not require that the applicant be certified to do business with the federal government. If registration in SAM.gov is a requirement, it will be specifically stated in the solicitation.
What is a Capability Assessment?
Capability assessments are a type of tech challenge in which ecosystem contacts and market research are utilized to invite submissions to solve a specific problem identified by government stakeholders.
Does it cost anything to submit for a tech challenge?
There is no cost associated with a submission to ERDCWERX for tech challenges.
How are participants selected from among the applications/submissions received?
Submissions are solicited and accumulated by ERDCWERX. Upon closing of the submission timeframe, a team established by and including a representative of our government partner (ERDC) will evaluate and conduct the downselect. This will determine which of the submitting parties will then be invited by ERDCWERX to participate in a virtual pitch, demonstration, or direct engagement with ERDC.
Do tech challenges involve prize awards or other recognition for those receiving the top scores?
ERDCWERX tech challenges may, at times, involve a funding prize award or other form of recognition. This will vary based on the requirements of the individual project. If needed, ERDCWERX may offer a subcontracting opportunity with the top performers in support of physical presentation or other deliverables.
How can I find out about future tech challenges from ERDCWERX?
We encourage interested parties to join the ERDCWERX ecosystem and follow ERDCWERX on social media to learn about tech challenges and other project opportunities.
Industry, academia, national labs, individual innovators, and other parties are invited to apply for consideration. ERDCWERX tech challenges do not require that the applicant be certified to do business with the federal government. If registration in SAM.gov is a requirement, it will be specifically stated in the solicitation.
What is a Capability Assessment?
Capability assessments are a type of tech challenge in which ecosystem contacts and market research are utilized to invite submissions to solve a specific problem identified by government stakeholders.
Does it cost anything to submit for a tech challenge?
There is no cost associated with a submission to ERDCWERX for tech challenges.
How are participants selected from among the applications/submissions received?
Submissions are solicited and accumulated by ERDCWERX. Upon closing of the submission timeframe, a team established by and including a representative of our government partner (ERDC) will evaluate and conduct the downselect. This will determine which of the submitting parties will then be invited by ERDCWERX to participate in a virtual pitch, demonstration, or direct engagement with ERDC.
Do tech challenges involve prize awards or other recognition for those receiving the top scores?
ERDCWERX tech challenges may, at times, involve a funding prize award or other form of recognition. This will vary based on the requirements of the individual project. If needed, ERDCWERX may offer a subcontracting opportunity with the top performers in support of physical presentation or other deliverables.
How can I find out about future tech challenges from ERDCWERX?
We encourage interested parties to join the ERDCWERX ecosystem and follow ERDCWERX on social media to learn about tech challenges and other project opportunities.
Broad Other Transaction Authority Announcement (BOTAA)
What is the definition of a prototype project?
The definition of a "prototype project" in the context of an OT is as follows: a prototype project addresses a proof of concept, model, reverse engineering to address obsolescence, pilot, novel application of commercial technologies for defense purposes, agile development activity, creation, design, development, demonstration of technical or operational utility, or combinations of the foregoing. A process, including a business process, may be the subject of a prototype project.
What is an OT and how do government entities use them?
Other Transactions (OTs) are a special class of assistance instrument used to increase involvement of commercial firms in defense research and development programs and for other purposes related to integrating the commercial and defense sectors of the nation's technology and Industrial Base. It is the intent to provide an effective means for the Government to engage with non-traditional, traditional and non-profit research institutions and entities to streamline access and investments for mission critical capabilities.
Is ERDCWERX a consortium?
No. ERDCWERX provides U.S. Army Engineer Research and Development Center (ERDC) the capability to advertise and solicit prototype opportunities. Any resulting agreement is made directly with the offeror and the government.
What are the current project opportunities/requirements?
Prototype opportunities will be announced through the ERDCWERX platform and/or through beta.sam.gov. New tech challenges are also announced through this platform as well.
How are notifications issued regarding new business opportunities?
Prototype opportunities will be posted via ERDCWERX platform. Email, social media, and/or through SAM.gov may be used to issue announcements.
Can my organization pursue multiple prototype focus areas listed?
Yes. Organizations can indicate which focus area to which their white paper applies. They can also indicate which of the prototype focus areas may be a fit with their organization’s capabilities.
Are a DUNS and CAGE code required to join the ERDCWERX ecosystem?
DUNS number and CAGE code are NOT a requirement for joining the ERDCWERX ecosystem. They are, however, required in order to perform work with the U.S. government. Registration at SAM.gov will be required prior to award of any OT agreement.
How do I get a DUNS number and CAGE code?
Registration with Dun and Bradstreet is required to receive a DUNS number. A DUNS number may be obtained here. To receive a CAGE code, register to do business with government at SAM.gov.
How is an OT agreement different from a FAR contract?
Other Transactional Agreements are flexible contracting mechanisms outside of the purview of the Federal Acquisition Regulation. Please visit the ERDCWERX website to access the OT Guide (2018) for additional detail.
What is a Prototype Other Transaction (OT)?
Prototype OTs are authorized by 10 U.S.C. 2371b. Transactions pursuant to this authority can take many forms and generally are not required to comply with Federal laws and regulations that apply to procurement contracts, grants and/or cooperative agreements. To the extent that a particular law or regulation is not tied to the type of instrument used (e.g., fiscal and property laws), it would generally apply to an OT.
Will all ERDC OT (Other Transactions) opportunities be competed?
Yes.
What is the difference between a Broad OTA Announcement (BOTAA) and a Project Specific Prototype Request?
The BOTAA allows white paper submissions in response to the stated focus areas at any time. Project Specific Prototype Requests allow white paper submissions in response to a specific need or capability gap for a limited time.
We are interested in sharing our capabilities. Is there a Program Manager to speak with?
Please submit a white paper online in accordance with the BOTAA to begin the review process.
Are there general orders of magnitude and/or timeframes on the website?
No. There are no general orders of magnitude and/or timeframes. Any and all white paper solutions that correspond with one or more of the focus areas identified are desired.
Is there a deadline for submission in response to the BOTAA?
No. The BOTAA is an open and continuous announcement. White Papers may be submitted at any time.
Are the maturity levels (TRL/MRL) of proposed solutions to the required focus areas expected to be at some minimum level?
No. There are no established minimum maturity levels required. Any and all white paper solutions that correspond with one or more of the focus areas identified are desired.
Is cost share a requirement to participate?
If the prime offeror is a nontraditional defense contractor (NTDC) or if the prime is a traditional defense contract (TDC) that proposes a solution including significant participation with an NTDC, cost share is not required to participate.
Do Cost Accounting Standard (CAS) requirements apply to my small business?
Contracts with small businesses are exempt from CAS.
Does our company need to obtain a DUNS, CAGE code and be registered in SAM to submit a white paper?
No. There is no requirement to have a DUNS, CAGE code or be registered in SAM to submit a white paper. However, this must be done prior to receiving an award with the Federal government. To obtain a DUNS, click here. Once a DUNS is issued, create an account through the System for Award Management (SAM) at SAM.gov. SAM will send your entity information to the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) for CAGE Code assignment. Foreign entities must register for an NCAGE Code prior to creating an account through SAM.
Is it acceptable to propose that ERDC testing facilities may be used to conduct certain tests of the prototypes?
Yes.
What information should be included in ‘data rights assertions’ section of the white paper?
All information pertaining to anticipated licensing, data, patent and/or copyright assertions that may need further negotiating prior to award should be discussed in this section.
What should be included as supporting documentation in the ROM section? Would a brief narrative that explains the estimated price suffice?
Yes, a brief narrative is sufficient. If the white paper is selected, a full price proposal will be requested.
Can a white paper be submitted under more than one focus area?
Yes.
It is said that “proposals with detailed artwork are not desired...” Can we still include sketches to explain better the concepts being proposed?
Yes. However, the white paper shall be no more than three pages.
On the focus area section, do we need to explain our selection of the focus areas? or, would it be enough to just enlist the focus areas that we think the proposed solution represents?
There is no requirement to explain your selection of focus areas.
Do you have an idea of when funding may be available if a white paper is selected? Or do you know how long this white paper will stay in the electronic library?
There is no estimated timeframe on funding availability. White papers are maintained in the electronic library for up to three years after submission. If during the three-year availability funding does become available, the Agreements Officer will send a Request for Prototype Proposal.
Does the white paper have to be submitted through ERDCWERX?
Yes, all submissions must be made through ERDCWERX so it can be processed in accordance with the BOTAA.
Has ERDC awarded prototypes using the ERDCWERX process?
Yes. To date, one has been awarded and two more are in process.
Is there a limit on total awards for each of the Military Engineering Focus Areas?
No.
Are foreign entities eligible for an award under this announcement?
Due to the nature of this program, Clause 252.225-7048 will be included in any resulting award. Per 252.225-7048, the Contractor shall comply with all applicable laws and regulations regarding export-controlled items, including, but not limited to, the requirement for contractors to register with the Department of State in accordance with the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). The Contractor shall consult with the Department of State regarding any questions relating to compliance with the ITAR and shall consult with the Department of Commerce regarding any questions relating to compliance with the Export Administration Regulations (EAR). Therefore, it would be upon the individual entity to ensure compliance.
What does “selected’’ mean?
"Selected" means your solution has been determined to meet all the white paper requirements set forth in the announcement and is potentially advantageous to the Military Engineering mission. Please note: Selection of a white paper does not guarantee funding will become available. If funding does become available, a Request for Prototype Proposal will be sent by the Agreement Officer.
The definition of a "prototype project" in the context of an OT is as follows: a prototype project addresses a proof of concept, model, reverse engineering to address obsolescence, pilot, novel application of commercial technologies for defense purposes, agile development activity, creation, design, development, demonstration of technical or operational utility, or combinations of the foregoing. A process, including a business process, may be the subject of a prototype project.
What is an OT and how do government entities use them?
Other Transactions (OTs) are a special class of assistance instrument used to increase involvement of commercial firms in defense research and development programs and for other purposes related to integrating the commercial and defense sectors of the nation's technology and Industrial Base. It is the intent to provide an effective means for the Government to engage with non-traditional, traditional and non-profit research institutions and entities to streamline access and investments for mission critical capabilities.
Is ERDCWERX a consortium?
No. ERDCWERX provides U.S. Army Engineer Research and Development Center (ERDC) the capability to advertise and solicit prototype opportunities. Any resulting agreement is made directly with the offeror and the government.
What are the current project opportunities/requirements?
Prototype opportunities will be announced through the ERDCWERX platform and/or through beta.sam.gov. New tech challenges are also announced through this platform as well.
How are notifications issued regarding new business opportunities?
Prototype opportunities will be posted via ERDCWERX platform. Email, social media, and/or through SAM.gov may be used to issue announcements.
Can my organization pursue multiple prototype focus areas listed?
Yes. Organizations can indicate which focus area to which their white paper applies. They can also indicate which of the prototype focus areas may be a fit with their organization’s capabilities.
Are a DUNS and CAGE code required to join the ERDCWERX ecosystem?
DUNS number and CAGE code are NOT a requirement for joining the ERDCWERX ecosystem. They are, however, required in order to perform work with the U.S. government. Registration at SAM.gov will be required prior to award of any OT agreement.
How do I get a DUNS number and CAGE code?
Registration with Dun and Bradstreet is required to receive a DUNS number. A DUNS number may be obtained here. To receive a CAGE code, register to do business with government at SAM.gov.
How is an OT agreement different from a FAR contract?
Other Transactional Agreements are flexible contracting mechanisms outside of the purview of the Federal Acquisition Regulation. Please visit the ERDCWERX website to access the OT Guide (2018) for additional detail.
What is a Prototype Other Transaction (OT)?
Prototype OTs are authorized by 10 U.S.C. 2371b. Transactions pursuant to this authority can take many forms and generally are not required to comply with Federal laws and regulations that apply to procurement contracts, grants and/or cooperative agreements. To the extent that a particular law or regulation is not tied to the type of instrument used (e.g., fiscal and property laws), it would generally apply to an OT.
Will all ERDC OT (Other Transactions) opportunities be competed?
Yes.
What is the difference between a Broad OTA Announcement (BOTAA) and a Project Specific Prototype Request?
The BOTAA allows white paper submissions in response to the stated focus areas at any time. Project Specific Prototype Requests allow white paper submissions in response to a specific need or capability gap for a limited time.
We are interested in sharing our capabilities. Is there a Program Manager to speak with?
Please submit a white paper online in accordance with the BOTAA to begin the review process.
Are there general orders of magnitude and/or timeframes on the website?
No. There are no general orders of magnitude and/or timeframes. Any and all white paper solutions that correspond with one or more of the focus areas identified are desired.
Is there a deadline for submission in response to the BOTAA?
No. The BOTAA is an open and continuous announcement. White Papers may be submitted at any time.
Are the maturity levels (TRL/MRL) of proposed solutions to the required focus areas expected to be at some minimum level?
No. There are no established minimum maturity levels required. Any and all white paper solutions that correspond with one or more of the focus areas identified are desired.
Is cost share a requirement to participate?
If the prime offeror is a nontraditional defense contractor (NTDC) or if the prime is a traditional defense contract (TDC) that proposes a solution including significant participation with an NTDC, cost share is not required to participate.
Do Cost Accounting Standard (CAS) requirements apply to my small business?
Contracts with small businesses are exempt from CAS.
Does our company need to obtain a DUNS, CAGE code and be registered in SAM to submit a white paper?
No. There is no requirement to have a DUNS, CAGE code or be registered in SAM to submit a white paper. However, this must be done prior to receiving an award with the Federal government. To obtain a DUNS, click here. Once a DUNS is issued, create an account through the System for Award Management (SAM) at SAM.gov. SAM will send your entity information to the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) for CAGE Code assignment. Foreign entities must register for an NCAGE Code prior to creating an account through SAM.
Is it acceptable to propose that ERDC testing facilities may be used to conduct certain tests of the prototypes?
Yes.
What information should be included in ‘data rights assertions’ section of the white paper?
All information pertaining to anticipated licensing, data, patent and/or copyright assertions that may need further negotiating prior to award should be discussed in this section.
What should be included as supporting documentation in the ROM section? Would a brief narrative that explains the estimated price suffice?
Yes, a brief narrative is sufficient. If the white paper is selected, a full price proposal will be requested.
Can a white paper be submitted under more than one focus area?
Yes.
It is said that “proposals with detailed artwork are not desired...” Can we still include sketches to explain better the concepts being proposed?
Yes. However, the white paper shall be no more than three pages.
On the focus area section, do we need to explain our selection of the focus areas? or, would it be enough to just enlist the focus areas that we think the proposed solution represents?
There is no requirement to explain your selection of focus areas.
Do you have an idea of when funding may be available if a white paper is selected? Or do you know how long this white paper will stay in the electronic library?
There is no estimated timeframe on funding availability. White papers are maintained in the electronic library for up to three years after submission. If during the three-year availability funding does become available, the Agreements Officer will send a Request for Prototype Proposal.
Does the white paper have to be submitted through ERDCWERX?
Yes, all submissions must be made through ERDCWERX so it can be processed in accordance with the BOTAA.
Has ERDC awarded prototypes using the ERDCWERX process?
Yes. To date, one has been awarded and two more are in process.
Is there a limit on total awards for each of the Military Engineering Focus Areas?
No.
Are foreign entities eligible for an award under this announcement?
Due to the nature of this program, Clause 252.225-7048 will be included in any resulting award. Per 252.225-7048, the Contractor shall comply with all applicable laws and regulations regarding export-controlled items, including, but not limited to, the requirement for contractors to register with the Department of State in accordance with the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). The Contractor shall consult with the Department of State regarding any questions relating to compliance with the ITAR and shall consult with the Department of Commerce regarding any questions relating to compliance with the Export Administration Regulations (EAR). Therefore, it would be upon the individual entity to ensure compliance.
What does “selected’’ mean?
"Selected" means your solution has been determined to meet all the white paper requirements set forth in the announcement and is potentially advantageous to the Military Engineering mission. Please note: Selection of a white paper does not guarantee funding will become available. If funding does become available, a Request for Prototype Proposal will be sent by the Agreement Officer.
Commercial Solutions Opening (CSO)
This section contains general questions as well as questions for individual program requirements.
What is a 'validity' date?
The validity date tells the Government how long an entity’s proposal is valid. The CSO requires pricing to be valid for a minimum of 90 days.
I want to confirm that the CDC opportunity nested under "Installations of the Future" does not have a response deadline of August 24, 2021 like the other two areas at www.erdcwerx.org/commercial-solutions.
This Commercial Solutions Opening (CSO) contains broadly defined areas of interest, submissions for which will be accepted anytime during the open period which ends 31 July 2022.
In the CSO Solicitation, Section B, the naming convention for file submissions does not match the naming convention listed in solution brief template. Which naming conventions should we follow?
Updates have been made to the CSO Solicitation document to provide clarification.
In the CSO Solicitation, Section D, it states to 'see attached Areas of Interest/Topics for this CSO'. Can the Government please provide that file?
Further information on the Areas of Interest can be reviewed here.
For the 5 page solution brief and the 15 slide presentation deck, can we include a title page that will not be counted?
Per the CSO Solicitation document, the Solution Brief and slide-deck submissions should not, when printed, exceed the maximum number of pages allowed. The cover letter functions as a title page, which allows the technical volume to maximize the pages allowed for specific solution content.
What cost elements does the Government desire in the cost submission?
Initial submission pricing can be high level estimates because the Government does not intend to require more information than is completely necessary for a preliminary evaluation. The total for the solution being submitted is required. If the submission represents multiples years of effort, a yearly estimate is preferred. More detailed pricing will be requested if the solution is selected to proceed for award.
Can a university be the prime recipient of the contract, and if not, can a university be a subcontractor?
A university can be the recipient or a subcontractor of an award resultant from a solution submission. Note that the primary award vehicle is anticipated to be a contract, therefore entities will need to be registered in the System for Award Management (SAM) for all awards. Additionally, the applicable DPAP Policy only permits fixed-price type awards.
Will this solicitation be offered as a small business, 8aSetaside, Full and Open or Direct Award?
The Commercial Solutions Opening for the Installations of the Future is a Full and Open solicitation.
Is there an opportunity to review/award both the opportunity for Installation Access Control Technology and the Child Development Center, nested under the Installation of the Future CSO, with a comprehensive solution?
Unfortunately, no. The Installation Access Control is a specific requirement for Redstone Arsenal, and although capability relative to the CDC may be a part of the solution submitted it will only be considered for the specific requirement identified for the Installation Access Control. If there is a solution identified for the CDC AOI that would need to be submitted separately from the Installation Access Control solution.
Is the funding currently allocated? If not, can you provide an estimated allocation date?
The funding is allocated and ready for award(s) should an acceptable solution be identified.
What is the projected total opportunity as related to the Child Development Center Solicitation?
This is an area of interest that is open continuous and does not have a specific opportunity associated with it yet. Solutions submitted in response to the AOIs may generate opportunities if the solution is thought to have promise and address an issue of the agency.
Can we propose a partial solution and then be matched with others to provide a total or do we need to team up with partners ahead of responding to provide a complete "total solution"?
Partial and total solutions will be considered.
Current Teacher/Child ratio?
AR 608-10, Child Development Services, specifies current requirements for child-to-caregiver ratios.
Estimated total number of children in a classroom setting?
AR 608-10, Child Development Services, specifies maximum group size by age group.
How many installations will require the solution proposed for the Child Development Center?
This is an area of interest that is open continuous and does not have a specific opportunity associated with it yet. Solutions submitted in response to the AOIs may generate opportunities if the solution is thought to have promise and address an issue of the agency.
Is there a due date for submissions responding to the Installation of the Future CSO RFP?
The general CSO is open continuously until the date stipulated, so solutions can be submitted at a time during the open period.
What is a 'validity' date?
The validity date tells the Government how long an entity’s proposal is valid. The CSO requires pricing to be valid for a minimum of 90 days.
I want to confirm that the CDC opportunity nested under "Installations of the Future" does not have a response deadline of August 24, 2021 like the other two areas at www.erdcwerx.org/commercial-solutions.
This Commercial Solutions Opening (CSO) contains broadly defined areas of interest, submissions for which will be accepted anytime during the open period which ends 31 July 2022.
In the CSO Solicitation, Section B, the naming convention for file submissions does not match the naming convention listed in solution brief template. Which naming conventions should we follow?
Updates have been made to the CSO Solicitation document to provide clarification.
In the CSO Solicitation, Section D, it states to 'see attached Areas of Interest/Topics for this CSO'. Can the Government please provide that file?
Further information on the Areas of Interest can be reviewed here.
For the 5 page solution brief and the 15 slide presentation deck, can we include a title page that will not be counted?
Per the CSO Solicitation document, the Solution Brief and slide-deck submissions should not, when printed, exceed the maximum number of pages allowed. The cover letter functions as a title page, which allows the technical volume to maximize the pages allowed for specific solution content.
What cost elements does the Government desire in the cost submission?
Initial submission pricing can be high level estimates because the Government does not intend to require more information than is completely necessary for a preliminary evaluation. The total for the solution being submitted is required. If the submission represents multiples years of effort, a yearly estimate is preferred. More detailed pricing will be requested if the solution is selected to proceed for award.
Can a university be the prime recipient of the contract, and if not, can a university be a subcontractor?
A university can be the recipient or a subcontractor of an award resultant from a solution submission. Note that the primary award vehicle is anticipated to be a contract, therefore entities will need to be registered in the System for Award Management (SAM) for all awards. Additionally, the applicable DPAP Policy only permits fixed-price type awards.
Will this solicitation be offered as a small business, 8aSetaside, Full and Open or Direct Award?
The Commercial Solutions Opening for the Installations of the Future is a Full and Open solicitation.
Is there an opportunity to review/award both the opportunity for Installation Access Control Technology and the Child Development Center, nested under the Installation of the Future CSO, with a comprehensive solution?
Unfortunately, no. The Installation Access Control is a specific requirement for Redstone Arsenal, and although capability relative to the CDC may be a part of the solution submitted it will only be considered for the specific requirement identified for the Installation Access Control. If there is a solution identified for the CDC AOI that would need to be submitted separately from the Installation Access Control solution.
Is the funding currently allocated? If not, can you provide an estimated allocation date?
The funding is allocated and ready for award(s) should an acceptable solution be identified.
What is the projected total opportunity as related to the Child Development Center Solicitation?
This is an area of interest that is open continuous and does not have a specific opportunity associated with it yet. Solutions submitted in response to the AOIs may generate opportunities if the solution is thought to have promise and address an issue of the agency.
Can we propose a partial solution and then be matched with others to provide a total or do we need to team up with partners ahead of responding to provide a complete "total solution"?
Partial and total solutions will be considered.
Current Teacher/Child ratio?
AR 608-10, Child Development Services, specifies current requirements for child-to-caregiver ratios.
Estimated total number of children in a classroom setting?
AR 608-10, Child Development Services, specifies maximum group size by age group.
How many installations will require the solution proposed for the Child Development Center?
This is an area of interest that is open continuous and does not have a specific opportunity associated with it yet. Solutions submitted in response to the AOIs may generate opportunities if the solution is thought to have promise and address an issue of the agency.
Is there a due date for submissions responding to the Installation of the Future CSO RFP?
The general CSO is open continuously until the date stipulated, so solutions can be submitted at a time during the open period.
CSO Individual Program Requirements
Installation Access Control Technology
Can the Government please confirm the Installation Access Control Technology's Volume I: Technical (part one or three) should be labeled "Proposal-W9132T21SC001-WhitePaper-<CompanyName>.pdf"? The CSO Solicitation states that the document should be labeled "Solution-W9132T21SC001-Brief-<CompanyName>.pdf". Also, can the Government please confirm that this brief/white paper should be a word document and not a PowerPoint presentation?
Updates have been made to the CSO Solicitation document to provide clarification. For the initial submission, the “brief” would likely be a word document format, and the “pitch” will be a PowerPoint format. All documents are to be pdf for submission.
Does the Government have an expectation for the number of biometrically-enabled lanes for the solution?
As a demonstration project, a single biometrically enabled lane for the solution is sufficient.
Is there an opportunity to review/award both the opportunity for Installation Access Control Technology and the Child Development Center, nested under the Installation of the Future CSO, with a comprehensive solution?
Unfortunately, no. The Installation Access Control is a specific requirement for Redstone Arsenal, and although capability relative to the CDC may be a part of the solution submitted it will only be considered for the specific requirement identified for the Installation Access Control. If there is a solution identified for the CDC AOI that would need to be submitted separately from the Installation Access Control solution.
What is the projected total opportunity as related to the Access Control Solicitation?
The total opportunity is identified in the details on the posting. The Government’s funding profile is NTE $7.5M for this opportunity.
What is the estimated traffic for the pilot ACP during peak and off-peak hours?
There is no specific traffic volume requirement for the demonstration, but it could range from 0 to over 3000 vehicles per hour
Will this pilot cover only the ACP or also will include Overwatch areas for sensor and visual components?
The project is not limited to only the ACP, as per the CSO Desired End State: "The expected outcome of this research project is the development and demonstration of an installation access control technology pilot system for Redstone Arsenal, Alabama. This project will incorporate smart technologies including biometric sensors coupled with data analytics, data fusion, and artificial intelligence to provide improved protection, faster awareness, and decision options for the installation. Expected benefits include reduced bottlenecks at access points, increased situational awareness of personnel and visitors at entry and while on the installation, improved overall installation safety, enhanced security of mission-critical assets and infrastructure, reduced risk of insider threats, and processes for future automated vehicle and commuter bus access to installations that are safe and secure."
The cover sheet requires an AOI to be listed for each submission. What are the AOIs for the Installation Access Control Technology topic?
This is a standalone invitation for proposals, so just use 'Installation Access Control Technology' as the AOI.
What Access Control Systems are used at the Entry Control Points? i.e. Manufacturer.
Various entry locations have varied technology to include the Automated Installation Entry (AIE) system at various tiers, as well as entries with minimal technology integration. Solutions may consider integration with varied levels of existing technology.
What Intrusion Detection Systems are utilized on the facility? i.e. Manufacturer.
Various entry locations have varied technology. The solution provider is expected to have general knowledge of existing access control technologies at installations .
Are smart meters deployed throughout the facility? If so, what Manufacturer?
Various entry locations have varied technology. The solution provider is expected to have general knowledge of existing access control technologies at installations.
Are the Facility Electrical and HVAC systems centrally monitored? If so, What system?
Various entry locations have varied technology. The solution provider is expected to have general knowledge of existing access control technologies at installations.
Is there a current list of Base wide data sources that are available for integration?
Various entry locations have varied technology. The solution provider is expected to have general knowledge of existing access control technologies at installations.
What CCTV systems are utilized on the facility?
Various entry locations have varied technology. The solution provider is expected to have general knowledge of existing access control technologies at installations.
What are the CCTV systems current base coverage?
Various entry locations have varied technology. The solution provider is expected to have general knowledge of existing access control technologies at installations.
Does the facility have a Mass Notification system? If so, what Manufacturer?
Various entry locations have varied technology. The solution provider is expected to have general knowledge of existing access control technologies at installations.
For the demonstration does the wireless network need to cover the entire facility or just the Entry control points and the demonstration systems?
The wireless network should enable a successful demonstration of the solution and its associated capabilities and is not expected to cover the entire installation.
How many Entry Control Points are at the Redstone Arsenal facility?
Various entry locations have varied technology and a demonstration at least one Entry Control Point is expected with the proposed solution.
What are the locations of the ECP’s?
The solution proposal may select one or multiple ECP’s for the demonstration.
Can 11x17 paper be used in the proposal?
I assume this is a digital submission; so this seems fine to me?
Does 11x17 count as one page?
I assume this is a digital submission; so this seems fine to me?
Installation Access Control Technology
Can the Government please confirm the Installation Access Control Technology's Volume I: Technical (part one or three) should be labeled "Proposal-W9132T21SC001-WhitePaper-<CompanyName>.pdf"? The CSO Solicitation states that the document should be labeled "Solution-W9132T21SC001-Brief-<CompanyName>.pdf". Also, can the Government please confirm that this brief/white paper should be a word document and not a PowerPoint presentation?
Updates have been made to the CSO Solicitation document to provide clarification. For the initial submission, the “brief” would likely be a word document format, and the “pitch” will be a PowerPoint format. All documents are to be pdf for submission.
Does the Government have an expectation for the number of biometrically-enabled lanes for the solution?
As a demonstration project, a single biometrically enabled lane for the solution is sufficient.
Is there an opportunity to review/award both the opportunity for Installation Access Control Technology and the Child Development Center, nested under the Installation of the Future CSO, with a comprehensive solution?
Unfortunately, no. The Installation Access Control is a specific requirement for Redstone Arsenal, and although capability relative to the CDC may be a part of the solution submitted it will only be considered for the specific requirement identified for the Installation Access Control. If there is a solution identified for the CDC AOI that would need to be submitted separately from the Installation Access Control solution.
What is the projected total opportunity as related to the Access Control Solicitation?
The total opportunity is identified in the details on the posting. The Government’s funding profile is NTE $7.5M for this opportunity.
What is the estimated traffic for the pilot ACP during peak and off-peak hours?
There is no specific traffic volume requirement for the demonstration, but it could range from 0 to over 3000 vehicles per hour
Will this pilot cover only the ACP or also will include Overwatch areas for sensor and visual components?
The project is not limited to only the ACP, as per the CSO Desired End State: "The expected outcome of this research project is the development and demonstration of an installation access control technology pilot system for Redstone Arsenal, Alabama. This project will incorporate smart technologies including biometric sensors coupled with data analytics, data fusion, and artificial intelligence to provide improved protection, faster awareness, and decision options for the installation. Expected benefits include reduced bottlenecks at access points, increased situational awareness of personnel and visitors at entry and while on the installation, improved overall installation safety, enhanced security of mission-critical assets and infrastructure, reduced risk of insider threats, and processes for future automated vehicle and commuter bus access to installations that are safe and secure."
The cover sheet requires an AOI to be listed for each submission. What are the AOIs for the Installation Access Control Technology topic?
This is a standalone invitation for proposals, so just use 'Installation Access Control Technology' as the AOI.
What Access Control Systems are used at the Entry Control Points? i.e. Manufacturer.
Various entry locations have varied technology to include the Automated Installation Entry (AIE) system at various tiers, as well as entries with minimal technology integration. Solutions may consider integration with varied levels of existing technology.
What Intrusion Detection Systems are utilized on the facility? i.e. Manufacturer.
Various entry locations have varied technology. The solution provider is expected to have general knowledge of existing access control technologies at installations .
Are smart meters deployed throughout the facility? If so, what Manufacturer?
Various entry locations have varied technology. The solution provider is expected to have general knowledge of existing access control technologies at installations.
Are the Facility Electrical and HVAC systems centrally monitored? If so, What system?
Various entry locations have varied technology. The solution provider is expected to have general knowledge of existing access control technologies at installations.
Is there a current list of Base wide data sources that are available for integration?
Various entry locations have varied technology. The solution provider is expected to have general knowledge of existing access control technologies at installations.
What CCTV systems are utilized on the facility?
Various entry locations have varied technology. The solution provider is expected to have general knowledge of existing access control technologies at installations.
What are the CCTV systems current base coverage?
Various entry locations have varied technology. The solution provider is expected to have general knowledge of existing access control technologies at installations.
Does the facility have a Mass Notification system? If so, what Manufacturer?
Various entry locations have varied technology. The solution provider is expected to have general knowledge of existing access control technologies at installations.
For the demonstration does the wireless network need to cover the entire facility or just the Entry control points and the demonstration systems?
The wireless network should enable a successful demonstration of the solution and its associated capabilities and is not expected to cover the entire installation.
How many Entry Control Points are at the Redstone Arsenal facility?
Various entry locations have varied technology and a demonstration at least one Entry Control Point is expected with the proposed solution.
What are the locations of the ECP’s?
The solution proposal may select one or multiple ECP’s for the demonstration.
Can 11x17 paper be used in the proposal?
I assume this is a digital submission; so this seems fine to me?
Does 11x17 count as one page?
I assume this is a digital submission; so this seems fine to me?
CSO Individual Program Requirements
Smart Installation and Community Dashboard
Is the Smart Installation and Community Dashboard a Small Business Set Aside or Full and Open?
This is not a Small Business Set Aside.
Does the term “installation” include all of Fort Benning, to include the range areas that make up most of the acreage? Or only the “garrison” portion of the post where people typically live and work?
Solutions may propose part or whole portions of the installation to be addressed with the dashboard.
Does the Army have the authority to “deploy and integrate smart sensors… in the community” (meaning beyond the bounds of the installation)?
The solution provider may work collaboratively to fulfill this objective.
Is there an existing wireless communications network that could be partially used for this purpose, or would it require a stand-alone system to be established?
The solution provider may utilize existing or alternative network options for the demonstration
The text is ambiguous about whether multiple AOIs can be included in each response, please clarify if only one may be specified per submission or many.
This is a standalone CSO invitation not within a limited AOI.
Are all seven Areas of Interest (AOIs) listed in Appendix D of the CSO applicable to “Smart Installation and Community Dashboard” submissions or only specific AOIs?
This is a standalone CSO invitation not within a limited AOI.
One of the accomplishments desired by the system demonstration is to “Deploy and integrate additional smart sensors on the installation and in the community. Is it possible to learn more about the purpose of existing smart sensors on Fort Benning and the surrounding area?
The solution provider may work collaboratively to fulfill this objective.
The documents reference the desire to include a proposed architecture for this solution – is there a current preference for a specific cloud provider that this should be deployed to support? Azure, AWS, GCP, etc.
The solution may provide any architecture they deem appropriate for this demonstration but a transition to future adoption is likely to require government cloud integration.
Can you please explain what ‘Environment’ entails, as listed as the main areas of focus?
No further explanation required.
Smart Installation and Community Dashboard
Is the Smart Installation and Community Dashboard a Small Business Set Aside or Full and Open?
This is not a Small Business Set Aside.
Does the term “installation” include all of Fort Benning, to include the range areas that make up most of the acreage? Or only the “garrison” portion of the post where people typically live and work?
Solutions may propose part or whole portions of the installation to be addressed with the dashboard.
Does the Army have the authority to “deploy and integrate smart sensors… in the community” (meaning beyond the bounds of the installation)?
The solution provider may work collaboratively to fulfill this objective.
Is there an existing wireless communications network that could be partially used for this purpose, or would it require a stand-alone system to be established?
The solution provider may utilize existing or alternative network options for the demonstration
The text is ambiguous about whether multiple AOIs can be included in each response, please clarify if only one may be specified per submission or many.
This is a standalone CSO invitation not within a limited AOI.
Are all seven Areas of Interest (AOIs) listed in Appendix D of the CSO applicable to “Smart Installation and Community Dashboard” submissions or only specific AOIs?
This is a standalone CSO invitation not within a limited AOI.
One of the accomplishments desired by the system demonstration is to “Deploy and integrate additional smart sensors on the installation and in the community. Is it possible to learn more about the purpose of existing smart sensors on Fort Benning and the surrounding area?
The solution provider may work collaboratively to fulfill this objective.
The documents reference the desire to include a proposed architecture for this solution – is there a current preference for a specific cloud provider that this should be deployed to support? Azure, AWS, GCP, etc.
The solution may provide any architecture they deem appropriate for this demonstration but a transition to future adoption is likely to require government cloud integration.
Can you please explain what ‘Environment’ entails, as listed as the main areas of focus?
No further explanation required.
