competitive procurement for: rfp c000475- remote field ... · i. competitive procurement for: rfp...
TRANSCRIPT
i.
COMPETITIVE PROCUREMENT FOR:
RFP C000475- REMOTE FIELD SUPPORT SERVICES
PROCUREMENT WEBSITE: HTTPS://ITS.NY.GOV/COMPETITIVE-PROCUREMENT-
OPPORTUNITIES
DESIGNATED CONTACT FOR INQUIRIES AND SUBMISSIONS
Alisa Fortune,
Contract Management Specialist 1
RFP related questions must be submitted via electronic mail using the Bidder Questions and Extraneous Terms Form (Attachment 5) to the designated contact for this RFP at [email protected]
No other method of inquiries will be accepted. Administrative issues pertaining to sending/receiving email through the designated mailbox may be reported at (518) 402-2725.
ITS ADDRESS FOR PROPOSAL DELIVERIES
Address to:
NYS OFFICE OF INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY SERVICES
PROCUREMENT AND CONTRACT SUPPORT UNIT
If US Post Office standard and US Post Office overnight mail, use:
ATTENTION: Alisa Fortune, PO BOX 2062, ALBANY, NY 12220
If UPS and FedEx express delivery overnight and ground service, use:
ATTENTION: Alisa Fortune, EMPIRE STATE PLAZA, SWAN STREET BUILDING, CORE 4, ALBANY, NY 12223
If Hand Delivery to front desk:
ATTENTION: Alisa Fortune, EMPIRE STATE PLAZA, SWAN STREET BUILDING, CORE 4, 1ST FLOOR LOBBY, ALBANY, NY 12223
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Calendar of Events
Event Date
1. RFP Release Date November 3, 2017
2. Non-Disclosure Agreement (see section 4.2.2) As soon as possible, but no later than November 29, 2017
3. Deadline for Submission of Bidder Questions and Extraneous Terms Form November 29, 2017
4. Issuance of Response to Submitted Questions On or about December 6, 2017
5. PROPOSAL DUE DATE December 21, 2017 at 2:00 PM ET
iii.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
APPENDICES (REQUIRE NO ACTION FROM BIDDERS) ......................................................... IV
ATTACHMENTS (MUST BE COMPLETED BY BIDDER’S AND SUBMITTED WITH
PROPOSALS) ............................................................................................................................... IV
EXHIBITS (PROJECT SPECIFIC INFORMATION) ...................................................................... V
SECTION 1 - OVERVIEW ......................................................................................................................6
1.1 PURPOSE OF REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS ...................................................................................... 6 1.2 DEFINITIONS .................................................................................................................................. 6 1.3 THE OFFICE OF INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY SERVICES .............................................................. 6
1.3.1 Mission, Vision, and Values Statement ................................................................................... 6 1.3.2 Formation of ITS ....................................................................................................................... 6
SECTION 2 - PROJECT SUMMARY ........................................................................................................6
2.1 MINIMUM BIDDER QUALIFICATIONS ............................................................................................ 6 2.2 PROJECT BACKGROUND (CURRENT STATE) .................................................................................. 7 2.3 BUSINESS GOALS (FUTURE STATE) ................................................................................................ 7
SECTION 3 - SOLUTION REQUIREMENTS ..............................................................................................8
3.1 SERVICES AND DESCRIPTIONS ....................................................................................................... 8
3.1.1 Equipment Maintenance Services ........................................................................................... 8
3.1.1.1 Technical Support ............................................................................................................... 8 3.1.1.2 Break-Fix Support (all manufacturers) ................................................................................ 8 3.1.1.3 System Upgrade Support .................................................................................................... 8 3.1.1.4 Removal of Equipment ....................................................................................................... 9
3.1.2 Equipment Installation, Configuration (non-maintenance) services ....................................... 9
3.1.2.1 Equipment Installation (non-maintenance) ........................................................................ 9 3.1.2.2 Equipment Configuration (non-maintenance).................................................................... 9
3.1.3 Runbook Overview ................................................................................................................. 10 3.1.4 Ordering ................................................................................................................................. 10
3.2 KEY PERSONNEL .......................................................................................................................... 10
3.2.1 Project Manager .................................................................................................................... 10 3.2.2 Dispatch Coordinator ............................................................................................................. 11 3.2.3 Field Engineer ........................................................................................................................ 11
3.3 SERVICE LEVEL REQUIREMENTS .................................................................................................. 12
3.3.1 Service Level Objectives ......................................................................................................... 12 3.3.2 Support for Standard Sites ..................................................................................................... 13 3.3.3 Support of Priority Sites ......................................................................................................... 13 3.3.4 Emergency Support................................................................................................................ 13 3.3.5 Installation and Configuration ............................................................................................... 14
SECTION 4 - PROCUREMENT PROCESS .............................................................................................. 14
4.1 METHOD OF AWARD ................................................................................................................... 14
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4.2 ADMINISTRATIVE REQUIREMENTS AND INFORMATION ............................................................ 14
4.2.1 Inquiries from Bidders ........................................................................................................... 14 4.2.2 Filing of the Non-Disclosure Agreement ................................................................................ 14 4.2.3 Communications from NYS to Bidders ................................................................................... 14 4.2.4 Procurement Record .............................................................................................................. 14 4.2.5 Building Access Procedures for Visitors and Hand Deliveries ............................................... 15
4.3 NO LATE SUBMISSIONS ............................................................................................................... 15
SECTION 5 - PROPOSAL REQUIREMENTS ........................................................................................... 15
5.1 PACKAGE LABEL .......................................................................................................................... 15 5.2 MULTIPLE SUBMISSIONS ............................................................................................................. 15 5.3 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS FOR PROPOSALS ............................................................................... 15 5.4 EVALUATION METHODOLOGY .................................................................................................... 16
5.4.1 Proposal Completeness Review ............................................................................................. 16 5.4.2 Minimum Qualifications Evaluation ...................................................................................... 16 5.4.3 Technical Proposal Evaluation ............................................................................................... 16 5.4.4 Financial Proposal Evaluation ................................................................................................ 16 5.4.5 Final Composite Score ........................................................................................................... 16
APPENDICES (REQUIRE NO ACTION FROM BIDDERS)
Appendix A – Standard Clauses for New York State Contracts
Appendix B – Reserved
Appendix C – ITS Standard Contract Clauses
Appendix C-1 - Contractor's Insurance Requirements
Appendix D – MWBE 102, Quarterly MWBE Compliance Report
Appendix E – EEO 101, Workforce Employment Utilization/Diversity Compliance Report
Appendix F – Glossary of Terms
ATTACHMENTS (MUST BE COMPLETED BY BIDDER’S AND SUBMITTED WITH PROPOSALS)
Attachment 1 – Proposal Submission Checklist
Attachment 2 – Bidder Information Form
Attachment 3 - Firm Offer Letter and Conflict of Interest Disclosure
Attachment 4 - Financial Proposal Workbook
Attachment 5 – Bidder Questions and Extraneous Terms Form
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Attachment 6 – Minimum Bidder Qualifications
Attachment 7 – Consultant Confidentiality and Non-Disclosure Agreement
Attachment 8 – NYS Required Certifications
Attachment 9 – Lobbying Forms All-in-One
Attachment 10 – Equal Employment Opportunity Staffing Plan – EEO 100
Attachment 11 – Minority/Women Owned Business Utilization Plan – MWBE-100
Attachment 12 – MWBE and EEO Policy Statement (Form 4)
Attachment 13 – Consultant Disclosure Form A & B
Attachment 14 – Encouraging Use of NYS Business in Contract Performance
Attachment 15 – Contractor Certification to Covered Agency, ST-220-CA
Attachment 16 – Requirements Verification and Traceability Matrix
Attachment 17 – Vendor Responsibility Questionnaire
Attachment 18 - Technical Proposal Form
Attachment 19 - Non-Disclosure Agreement
EXHIBITS (Project Specific Information)
Exhibit A – Locations List
Exhibit B – Device List
Exhibit C- Priority Sites List
Exhibit D - NYS ITS Standard Sanitization-Secure Disposal
NYS Office of Information Technology Services Request for Proposals
RFP # C000475-Remote Field Support Page 6
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SECTION 1 - OVERVIEW
1.1 PURPOSE OF REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS
The New York State Office of Information Technology Services (ITS) is issuing this Request for Proposals (RFP) to seek proposals from responsive and responsible Contractors for Remote Field Support & Network Equipment Maintenance services including:
➢ Equipment Maintenance Services
➢ Equipment Installation and Configuration (non-maintenance)
1.2 DEFINITIONS
Definitions for certain terms in this document, its appendices and attachments, can be found in Appendix F – Glossary of Terms.
1.3 THE OFFICE OF INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY SERVICES
1.3.1 Mission, Vision, and Values Statement
MISSION To create and deliver innovative solutions that foster a technology-enabled government to best serve New Yorkers
VISION To lead the nation in serving citizens, businesses, and visitors through world-class technology
VALUES Accountability, Citizens, Innovation, Integrity, People, Transformation
1.3.2 Formation of ITS
In 2012, New York consolidated information technology (IT) functions and service delivery from over 52 State agencies into a single agency in the largest IT consolidation in State government history. The ITS workforce of approximately 4,000 professionals serves over 120,000 end users. Historically, IT systems and applications were primarily decentralized within individual State agencies supported by internal agency teams working with disparate IT tools, methods, and varied technical platforms. Now, ITS is transforming IT across the State to offer world-class service that provides a consistent and high-quality experience for end users and citizens using an IT environment that:
• Maximizes existing resources
• Meets agency business needs with world-class customer service
• Creates a talented, innovative IT workforce
• Increases accountability
• Provides cost savings
SECTION 2 - PROJECT SUMMARY
2.1 MINIMUM BIDDER QUALIFICATIONS
Bidders must meet the minimum qualifications set forth in Attachment 6. Failure to meet all of the requirements in this attachment will result in the Proposal being deemed non-responsive and eliminated from consideration.
NYS Office of Information Technology Services Request for Proposals
RFP # C000475-Remote Field Support Page 7
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The following minimum requirements must be met by each Proposer:
• Have a minimum of three (3) years’ combined experience providing installation, maintenance,
and repair services to data communication equipment at ten (10) geographic locations
simultaneously (same day).
• Have a minimum of three (3) years’ combined experience maintaining data communication
equipment inventory (warehousing and staging), and distributing to multiple geographic
locations.
2.2 PROJECT BACKGROUND (CURRENT STATE)
ITS currently provides maintenance and support services for data communications equipment at numerous locations throughout New York State (See Exhibit A for site locations). Each of these sites has differing needs based on the technologies in use and/or security protocols at that location (See Exhibit B for a list of manufacturers/devices). These variations pose many difficulties to ITS as its responsibilities continue to grow through the consolidation process.
Presently, ITS is able to facilitate remediation on approximately twenty (20) tickets per week. Tickets can reflect testing of equipment, servicing of current equipment, or support and/or installation of new equipment throughout NYS. The estimated potential growth in tickets for these services is up to ten (10) daily.
In order to resolve each ticket, ITS has multiple vendors that supply Field Engineers (FE) specialized in manufacturer-specific data communications equipment. When a ticket is received, ITS dispatches a vendor’s manufacturer-specific FE to go to the location to service the equipment. Each vendor has its own process that ITS navigates to get the vendor’s FE dispatched. Therefore, it is possible that FEs from different vendors have to be dispatched to a location simultaneously to provide maintenance and/or support for the data communications equipment. In addition, ITS also has to coordinate with the equipment’s manufacturer for any hardware, software or proprietary tech support that may be needed for the repair and with the location for any security and/or shipping protocols. This creates a situation where potentially three or more different groups need to be coordinated to resolve one issue.
2.3 BUSINESS GOALS (FUTURE STATE)
As ITS continues to grow and mature into a centralized organization that provides world-class service, we are continually re-evaluating our methods to improve the end-user experience. As such, having this many different groups to coordinate for the maintenance and support of data communications equipment has proven to be taxing, inefficient, and creates potential for delays in resolution to data communication equipment issues. Therefore, the goal of this RFP is to procure data communications equipment maintenance and support services from a single vendor that can perform all the involved services and streamline the process for ITS. The vendor that ITS is looking to contract with will be able to provide the services as outlined in Section 3 - Solution Requirements to all locations under the ITS umbrella, and maintain relationships with all manufacturers that ITS uses during the term of the contract resulting from this RFP.
The services included in the scope of this RFP include:
• Equipment Maintenance Services
• Equipment Installation and Configuration (non-maintenance)
NYS Office of Information Technology Services Request for Proposals
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SECTION 3 - SOLUTION REQUIREMENTS
3.1 SERVICES AND DESCRIPTIONS
3.1.1 Equipment Maintenance Services
The Contractor must provide equipment and adequate staff levels of FEs to fully support all Equipment Maintenance needs in the following categories (more fully described below): Technical Support, Break-Fix Support, System Upgrade Support, and Removal Services for all data communications equipment identified under the Contract. Additionally, the Contractor must provide incident reports, status updates, and resolution services for NYS ITS equipment through ITS tools such as ITSM.
3.1.1.1 Technical Support
The Contractor must facilitate access to all manufacturer technical support necessary to maintain manufacturer standard warranties for the lifespan of equipment covered under the Contract. In addition, the Contractor must provide ITS with direct access to all manufacturer customer technical assistance, including hardware and software support, for all equipment covered under the Contract. NYS reserves the right to require written assurance and verification that all equipment is covered by the manufacturer warranty at any time during the term of the Contract.
3.1.1.2 Break-Fix Support (all manufacturers)
The Contractor must provide for Complete Restoration of data communications equipment
and peripherals. The Contractor can accomplish Complete Restoration through any means
necessary including providing a spare or replacement device. In addition, the Contractor
must provide any replacement equipment and/or any special configurations of
firmware/hardware that may be needed for Complete Restoration of data communications
equipment. For informational purposes, a listing of current equipment is identified in Exhibit
B-Device List. This listing includes multi-manufacturer data communications equipment
(different makes and models) installed at various locations across NYS.
The Contractor must securely dispose of all failed equipment and packing materials according to NYS policies (See Exhibit D). Additionally, the Contractor must process Return Material Authorization (RMA) as required by the manufacturer for certain equipment to facilitate replacement or replenishment of ITS equipment.
The Contractor must provide cabling services related to the repair and installation of
equipment. For example, the Contractor would be expected to connect copper and fiber
patch cables into network patch panels and data communications equipment. Additionally,
the Contractor must troubleshoot and repair network cable connections between the patch
panel and the desktop location and the fiber connection between network closets including
fiber tip replacements as needed. Upon request, Contractor must move connections on
fiber light interface units (LIU’s) to available spare fiber pairs to quickly restore customer
service. Contractor would not be expected to replace interior or exterior fiber cables that are
determined to be cut or otherwise completely broken. Upon request, the Contractor must
facilitate the installation of fiber jumpers and/or CAT 6 jumpers between floors to remedy
repairs and support network equipment installations.
3.1.1.3 System Upgrade Support
The Contractor must warranty all equipment that is supplied to ITS for the term of the Contract resulting from this RFP. This includes access to software/firmware updates/upgrades as part
NYS Office of Information Technology Services Request for Proposals
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of the Standard and Parts Replacement Service on a 24 x 7 x 365 basis, as well as, support escalations with the manufacturers.
3.1.1.4 Removal of Equipment
Upon request, the Contractor must remove obsolete equipment. ITS will identify the equipment and the Contractor will return it to a location designated by ITS. The Contractor must be responsible for all extraneous costs related to removal of the equipment. The Contractor bears full risk of loss until the equipment is delivered to and accepted by ITS.
3.1.2 Equipment Installation, Configuration (non-maintenance) services
The Contractor must provide installation, and configuration (non-maintenance) for data communications equipment upon the request of NYS ITS.
3.1.2.1 Equipment Installation (non-maintenance)
To fulfill the requirements of this section of the RFP and the Contract resulting from this RFP,
the Contractor must:
1) Provide installation services for data communications equipment upon the request of NYS
ITS. NYS ITS will supply the equipment to the Contractor in advance of installation.
2) Safeguard each item, at the Contractors expense upon receipt, and bear the risk of loss
thereof until the item has been completely installed, tested, and verified by both the
Contractor and ITS and/or transferred to ITS staff members per ITS staff assessment. At that
time, the risk of loss shall pass to NYS.
3) Install the data communications equipment according to the network design diagrams,
instructions, and templates provided by ITS. Equipment for each site will have its own unique
configuration parameters and labeling.
4) Maintain staff and resources capable of performing multiple installations, in the same day,
across NYS.
5) Prior to installation, determine if sufficient infrastructure is in place to successfully install
associated equipment (e.g. network switches, cable runs, open ports). In the event that
insufficient patch panel ports are available, the Contractor must provide the appropriate patch
panel information (copper or fiber) to NYS ITS and it must be available when the NYS ITS
infrastructure installation team is deployed.
3.1.2.2 Equipment Configuration (non-maintenance)
To fulfill the requirements of this section of the RFP and the Contract resulting from this RFP,
the Contractor must:
1. Provide configuration services for new data communications equipment upon the request of NYS ITS. ITS will supply the equipment to the Contractor (i.e. staging center or other location) in advance of these requests.
2. Safeguard each item of equipment delivered to the Contractor and bear the risk of loss thereof until the item has been completely configured, tested and verified by the Contractor and made operational and/or transferred to ITS staff members consistent with ITS procedures. At that time, the risk of loss shall pass to NYS.
NYS Office of Information Technology Services Request for Proposals
RFP # C000475-Remote Field Support Page 10
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3. Configure the equipment according to the network design diagrams and instructions provided by ITS. Equipment for each site will have its own unique configuration parameters. The configuration work on a particular item of equipment must begin upon written notification or other mutually acceptable method of notification by ITS.
4. Provide adequate staff levels of FEs to fully support all installation, and configuration (non-maintenance) needs throughout the State.
5. Provide incident reports, status updates, and resolution services for NYS ITS equipment covered under the contract in the format prescribed by ITS.
3.1.3 Runbook Overview
The Contractor must use the ITS ticketing system (ITSM) to receive work request and incident (break fix) tickets as the primary method of fulfilling services under the Contract. In addition, the Contractor must be able to update all ticket statuses in ITSM. When appropriate, the Contractor must place asset tags and labels on the equipment, and include the asset tag number on the inventory record. ITS will provide instructions on labeling and the use of the asset tags to the Contractor upon Contract approval. The Contractor must record the serial numbers of all data communications equipment deployed or removed under the contract resulting from this RFP and maintain such record through the term of the Contract.
There will be occasions where voice communications are required. The Contractor must
provide ITS, at no additional charge, with no less than one toll-free number for use 24x7x365 to
access the Contractor’s maintenance organization for dispatch of, clarifications of, escalations
of, and status updates for break fix requests. The Contractor must provide a designated
Dispatch Coordinator and Project Manager for the Contract that will be expected to interact
directly with the ITS Service Desk or ITS designees to provide problem updates, status of
restoration timeframe or other requested documentation. Additionally, the Contractor must
update all status and resolution information in ITSM.
The Contractor must follow all ITS Dispatch procedures for each location.
3.1.4 Ordering
Upon contract award, ITS will submit a detailed listing of the devices and locations that are to be covered for Equipment Maintenance Services under this contract with associated pricing as agreed. Further additions and deletions of devices for Equipment Maintenance Services will be submitted by ITS through ITSM. All requests for Configuration, Installation and Emergency Installation Services will be requested through ITSM by ITS. Tickets for these services shall be closed upon approval by ITS that the service has been completed in its entirety.
3.2 KEY PERSONNEL
3.2.1 Project Manager
The Project Manager (PM) must fulfill all PM duties including, but not limited to, the following:
• Serve as the liaison for the Contractor,
• Coordinate with ITS to establish processes and procedures for services as they relate to dispatch and administrative matters.
NYS Office of Information Technology Services Request for Proposals
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• Keep track of processes and document them as they are developed,
• Maintain records of each service request and address any issues that ITS may have in their weekly meetings,
• Create a runbook documenting in detail the processes each support routine is to take including providing the escalation procedure for FE dispatches.
• The assigned Project Manager must have at least five (5) continuous years as a project manager.
3.2.2 Dispatch Coordinator
The Dispatch Coordinator (DC) must fulfill all DC duties including, but not limited to, the following:
• Receive and acknowledge work orders from ITS, through the ITSM tool.
• Report all actions in ITSM, including identification of the FE and all actions performed by the FE.
• Responsible for following the escalation procedures.
• Receive tickets or tasks in a timely manner based upon the defined severity levels
• Coordinate with ITS to provide the name and time of arrival of the FE as well as communicating the dispatch procedure to the FE for various sites.
• Direct FE’s to have the correct parts and carry all required equipment necessary to perform the task.
• Be reachable by telephone hotline 24/7/365 and must be able to coordinate and escalate either with the hardware manufacturer or internally at the request of ITS.
• Report all activity to the PM and must be available for any reason relative to FE dispatch. This means that there should always be a contingency in this role: if one DC is not available, another must be able to answer the same hotline number.
• Upon receipt of a ticket, dispatch the FE, coordinate manufacturer support, and update the status of the ticket in ITSM.
3.2.3 Field Engineer
The Contractor must provide adequate staff levels of Field Engineers (FEs) to fully support project services throughout NYS to meet its contractual obligations.
The Contractor must make sure the FE has the correct parts and carries all required equipment necessary to perform the task.
The Contractor must submit resumes for all FEs that will be working in ITS facilities.
Should the Contractor employ any new FEs for work on the Contract, the Contractor must submit a resume, and NYS ITS must approve the new FE prior to their working on the Contract.
The Contractor must select FE’s that are able to perform all tasks, and have required credentials to meet the following including, but not limited to:
• Troubleshoot and replace/install any equipment listed and be available to be onsite for sites identified in Exhibit A-Locations to meet the below outlined SLRs.
• Follow dispatch procedures.
• Troubleshoot and replace/install all equipment to industry standards.
• Perform basic troubleshooting upon arrival at a site.
• Console into any ITS equipment and be familiar with wiring, and common network protocol and services.
• Deploy packet capture tools, create a wireless hotspot, join phone bridges, reach out to the Technical Assistance Center (TAC) for the hardware manufacturer, configure
NYS Office of Information Technology Services Request for Proposals
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network devices, save and restore configurations, and test connectivity on copper and fiber as well as wireless infrastructure.
• Provide through the DC, or directly, acknowledgement of ticket, record of ETA, problem identification, and all interaction relative to restoration.
• Once an incident is resolved, coordinate with the DC to give a detailed account of the work and close the incident per the runbook that the PM will provide.
• Have at least three (3) continuous years of experience in data communications equipment configuration, installation, and troubleshooting.
• ITS may require that FEs go through a security clearance including, but not limited to, background checks and/or compliance training.
• It is desirable that the FE possess industry certifications pertaining to data communications equipment configuration, installation, and troubleshooting. However, FE must be provided by the Contractor with the latest knowledge and training.
3.3 SERVICE LEVEL REQUIREMENTS
3.3.1 Service Level Objectives
Support Priority Levels
Maximum Response Time
Minimum Service Level Met
Maximum Resolution Time
Chargeback/Service Credit
Standard Sites 4 hours 80% 24 hours 2% for maximum response time, 2% for maximum resolution time
Priority Sites 15 minutes 95% 4 hours 2.5% for maximum response time, 2.5% for maximum resolution time
Emergency Response
15 minutes 95% 4 hours 3% for maximum response time, 3% for maximum resolution time
Installation and Configuration
4 hours 80% 24 hours or to be mutually agreed upon between ITS and the Contractor
2% for maximum response time, 2% for maximum resolution time
Contractor’s failure to satisfy performance standards or requirements set forth herein may result in a
credit or chargeback in an amount pre- determined by the parties. The Chargeback shall be paid to
ITS in the form of a credit to ITS against the Contractor’s invoice submitted to ITS immediately
following the month in which the Contractor failed to satisfy the standard or requirement.
NYS Office of Information Technology Services Request for Proposals
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The Contractor will not be penalized for failure to meet the standards of requirements at Secure Sites
during the occurrence of a force majeure event, or if ITS agrees, for delay due to adverse events
beyond the control of the Contractor, or if work ceases at the direction of civil authorities present at
the site. In the event a force majeure or other event as described in this section interrupts work or
prevents work from being performed, the Contractor shall be responsible for the meeting standards
or requirements beginning from the time such event ceases.
For SLRs, the Contractor must accept sole and complete responsibility for the timely
accomplishment of all activities as set forth in the RFP/Contract, including but not limited to
adherence to all of the requirements as described.
3.3.2 Support for Standard Sites
Standard Sites need to be supported Monday through Friday from 8 AM to 5 PM, excluding NYS
holidays. The Contractor is required to follow the access procedures for Standard Sites.
3.3.3 Support of Priority Sites
Priority Sites must be supported 24 x 7 x 365 (see Exhibit C – Priority Sites List). ITS reserves the
right to add or remove sites to the priority off-hours list with 10 calendar days advanced notice to the
Contractor.
Some Priority Sites are Secure Sites which will require additional security clearance, background
checks, and/or compliance training for the FEs. The Contractor must be able to support Secure
Sites within the SLRs. Secure Sites include locations such as, but not limited to, Correctional
Facilities (CF), State Police locations, ITS Data Centers, and health or mental health facilities
throughout NYS. There are strict guidelines for anyone entering a Secure Site (e.g., gate passes,
security checks, equipment/vehicle inspections). Contractor staff are only allowed to bring ITS-
approved equipment. Additional information regarding the requirements of specific Secure Sites will
be provided by ITS at the time of Contract negotiations.
3.3.4 Emergency Support
At times, the Contractor may be notified by ITS of a need for Emergency Support. ITS will determine need and will notify the Contractor through an Emergency Task Order (“ETO”). ITS designees authorized to initiate ETOs will be defined and maintained by ITS in a designated document. NYS reserves the right to issue ETOs by phone when necessary, with written follow-up when time allows. The rates billed for Emergency Site Support must be included in the Contractor's rates submitted in its Cost Proposal. The ETO will include, but not be limited to:
• Incident Number
• Description of the problem to be resolved
• The name, phone number, and email address of the NYS authorized designee making the request
• The date and time of the request
• The date and time that the Contractor staff is expected to arrive on site
• The full address of the Emergency Operations Site
• The name or title, phone number, and email address of the site contact person(s) who will direct the Contractor staff while on site and determine when Contractor services are no longer needed
• An estimate of the duration of the staffing need if available
• The actual arrival and departure dates and times of the Contractor staff (when available)
NYS Office of Information Technology Services Request for Proposals
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The exact form and method of ETO issuance will be defined during the initial contract Start-Up phase.
3.3.5 Installation and Configuration
Installation and Configuration must be performed during ITS designated change windows generally
during non-NYS Business Hours (e.g., between 6 a.m. and 8 a.m.). The Contractor is required to
follow access procedures for the sites.
SECTION 4 - PROCUREMENT PROCESS
4.1 METHOD OF AWARD
ITS will make an award for the services described in this RFP to a responsive and responsible Bidder on a “Best Value” basis. Best Value means that the proposal that optimizes quality, cost, and efficiency among responsive and responsible Bidders shall be selected for award (State Finance Law, Article 11, Section 163).
4.2 ADMINISTRATIVE REQUIREMENTS AND INFORMATION
4.2.1 Inquiries from Bidders
New York State Finance Law §§139-j and 139-k imposes certain restrictions on communication between NYS and Bidders during a procurement. Bidders should submit all RFP inquiries, questions, or comments to [email protected] using the Bidder Questions and Extraneous Terms Form (Attachment 5) by the due date indicated on the Calendar of Events. No other method of inquiries will be accepted.
Additional information is available at: http://ogs.ny.gov/Aboutogs/regulations/defaultAdvisoryCouncil.html
Administrative issues pertaining to sending/receiving email through the designated mailbox may be reported at (518) 402-2725.
4.2.2 Filing of the Non-Disclosure Agreement
Bidders will not receive Exhibit A – Locations List, Exhibit B – Device List, Exhibit C - Priority Sites, and Attachment 4 – Financial Proposal Workbook, nor ITS responses to vendor questions unless a fully executed Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) (Attachment 19) is returned to the ITS Designated Contact listed on the cover page of this RFP by the due date indicated in the Calendar of Events. Electronically signed copies of the NDA will be accepted; however, hard copies must also be sent via mail. Once a fully executed NDA is received by ITS, ITS will provide access to: Exhibit A – Locations Lists, Exhibit B – Device List, Exhibit C - Priority Sites, Attachment 4 – Financial Proposal Workbook, and ITS responses to bidder questions via a password-protected encrypted email. Bidders who do not submit a fully executed NDA will not be provided access to these documents.
4.2.3 Communications from NYS to Bidders
ITS has established a procurement website for the purpose of disseminating information relating to this procurement, and Bidders are encouraged to monitor the site. The website URL is provided on the cover page of this RFP.
4.2.4 Procurement Record
ITS shall maintain a Procurement Record that documents the procurement process.
NYS Office of Information Technology Services Request for Proposals
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4.2.5 Building Access Procedures for Visitors and Hand Deliveries
To access the ITS office building, all visitors must present photo identification at the Security Desk and comply with other requirements. Bidders who intend to hand-deliver Proposals or utilize independent courier services should allow extra time to comply with these procedures. Bidders hand-delivering their Proposals should ask the security personnel at the security desk to call the Designated Contact(s) indicated in this RFP or the Procurement and Contracts Support Unit. Building Access procedures may change or be modified at any time. Bidders assume all risks for timely, properly submitted hand deliveries.
4.3 NO LATE SUBMISSIONS
All Proposals must be submitted and received by the Proposal submission dates and times specified in this RFP. Proposals received after the Proposal Submission Deadline shall be rejected.
Faxed proposals and electronic submission will not be accepted. If proposal packaging labels are not sufficient to identify the contents, ITS reserves the right to open packages for the purpose of identifying the source and contents of the package. All materials submitted by the Bidder become the property of the State and may be returned only at the sole discretion of ITS.
SECTION 5 - PROPOSAL REQUIREMENTS
5.1 PACKAGE LABEL
All Proposals must have a label on the outside of the package or shipping container with the following information:
RFP C000475- Remote Field Support Services - PROPOSAL ENCLOSED
NOT TO BE OPENED EXCEPT BY AUTHORIZED PERSONNEL
5.2 MULTIPLE SUBMISSIONS
Bidders may submit more than one proposal for the purpose of offering alternative solutions but each proposal must meet all of the mandatory requirements of the RFP, be complete in itself, and must not reference or incorporate portions of another proposal submitted by Bidder. Multiple proposals received from the same Bidder will be separately evaluated by ITS as if each proposal were the sole submission of the Bidder.
5.3 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS FOR PROPOSALS
Bidders must submit a complete response that satisfies the requirements of this RFP. Failure to do so may render the Bidder’s proposal non-responsive. A proposal check list is included in this RFP as Attachment 1.
Proposals that make extensive use of color photographs or illustrations, or that include separate brochures or marketing materials and overly elaborate embellishments, are discouraged.
All proposals submitted in response to this RFP, must be written in the English language with quantities expressed using Arabic numerals and United States Dollars ($ USD), as applicable.
NYS Office of Information Technology Services Request for Proposals
RFP # C000475-Remote Field Support Page 16
16.
5.4 EVALUATION METHODOLOGY
The evaluation process will be conducted in a comprehensive and impartial manner. The Technical Proposal will be weighted at 60%, and the Financial Proposal will be weighted at 40%. There will be no points awarded to the Administrative Proposal.
5.4.1 Proposal Completeness Review
After the Proposal opening, each proposal will be screened for completeness and conformance with the RFP requirements. Proposals that do not meet the RFP requirements may be deemed non-responsive, removed from further consideration, and the Bidder notified accordingly. Proposals that pass will proceed to the Technical Evaluation.
5.4.2 Minimum Qualifications Evaluation
Proposals submitted by Bidders will be evaluated on a Pass/Fail basis to determine whether they satisfy the RFP’s minimum qualifications. Proposals that fail to meet the minimum qualifications will be deemed non-responsive, will not be further evaluated, and the Bidder will be notified accordingly. Passing proposals next proceed to the Technical and Financial Evaluations. Bidders may still be disqualified if it is later determined that the Bidder did not meet all of the RFP minimum qualifications and should not have qualified to move on to the Technical and Financial Evaluations stage.
5.4.3 Technical Proposal Evaluation
The Technical Evaluators will independently score each Technical Proposal using a weighted average to calculate the Technical Score for each responsive Bidder.
5.4.4 Financial Proposal Evaluation
The Financial Proposal evaluation will be based on a maximum score of 40 points which will be allocated to the proposal with the lowest price. All other responsive proposals will receive a proportionate score based on the relation of their Financial Proposal to the proposal with the lowest price, using this formula:
Financial Proposal points awarded = 40 points x (Lowest Price Financial Proposal/Price of Proposal Being Evaluated)
5.4.5 Final Composite Score
A final composite score will be calculated by adding the Technical Proposal points to the Financial Proposal points. The Proposals will be ranked based on the combined scores. The Bidder with the highest score may receive a tentative award, subject to successful contract negotiations and approval by the Attorney General and Office of the State Comptroller.
Should more than one Bidder get the same total score, the tie will be broken using the Financial Proposal score. When price and other factors are found to be substantially equivalent, ITS will select the winning Bidder at its sole discretion.