ABE Software and Application Upgrade
ID: 12305B24Q0221Type: Combined Synopsis/Solicitation
Overview

Buyer

AGRICULTURE, DEPARTMENT OFAGRICULTURAL RESEARCH SERVICEUSDA ARS NEA AAO ACQ/PER PROPBELTSVILLE, MD, 20705, USA

NAICS

Custom Computer Programming Services (541511)

PSC

IT AND TELECOM - BUSINESS APPLICATION/APPLICATION DEVELOPMENT SUPPORT SERVICES (LABOR) (DA01)

Set Aside

Total Small Business Set-Aside (FAR 19.5) (SBA)

Original Source

https://sam.gov/opp/cd0fe7635c2d48ccb42c8c5cd53e1be4/view
Timeline
    Description

    The Department of Agriculture, specifically the Agricultural Research Service (ARS), is seeking a contractor to upgrade the existing Arboretum Botanical Explorer (ABE) software and its associated mobile application. The primary objective is to enhance the functionality and compliance of the ABE program, which facilitates visitor access to plant collections at the U.S. National Arboretum, ensuring it meets current technological standards and accessibility regulations. This contract is a total small business set-aside, with proposals due by September 18, 2024, at 2:00 PM PST, and will be evaluated based on price, technical capability, and past performance. Interested contractors should direct inquiries to Elizabeth Wilson at elizabeth.wilson2@usda.gov and ensure they submit all required documentation, including a firm fixed-price quotation and proof of technical capability.

    Point(s) of Contact
    Elizabeth Wilson
    elizabeth.wilson2@usda.gov
    Files
    Title
    Posted
    Contract Terms and Conditions.docx
    The document outlines the Terms and Conditions for Purchase Orders related to federal acquisitions, including clauses from the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) and Agriculture Acquisition Regulation (AGAR) as of August 29, 2024. It details the incorporation of clauses by reference and full text, emphasizing compliance requirements for contractors in federal procurements involving commercial products and services. Key clauses include regulations on payment structures, the Contractor's Code of Business Ethics, whistleblower protection, and prohibitions against contracting with entities that utilize covered telecommunications and services from specified foreign sources. Furthermore, it specifies compliance with the Federal Acquisition Supply Chain Security Act (FASCSA), detailing prohibitions against using covered articles or services from restricted sources, with mandates for regular reviews and robust reporting procedures. The document serves to provide clear guidelines to contractors, ensuring adherence to federal regulations and promotes accountability within the procurement process. This framework is essential for maintaining integrity and security in government contracts, particularly in facilitating acquisitions while safeguarding national interests.
    Performance Work Statement.pdf
    The USDA's Agriculture Research Service has issued a Performance Work Statement to update the Arboretum Botanical Explorer (ABE) Software and its mobile application. The ABE program facilitates visitor access to plant collections through an interactive map, requiring updates due to outdated technology and compliance issues. The contractor, selected for this work, must have at least five years of relevant experience and is responsible for restoring images, updating proprietary software, and ensuring the mobile app adheres to current standards. This contract spans from September 15, 2024, to August 31, 2025, mandating deliverables such as a project management plan and project risks submitted to government representatives. Compliance with section 508 standards for electronic accessibility and data rights is paramount, alongside security measures for contractor personnel. All tasks must align with applicable federal laws. The contractor must also maintain the highest standards for privacy and security while providing products compliant with accessibility regulations. Through these updates, the USDA aims to enhance user experience and operational efficiency at the U.S. National Arboretum while adhering to federal standards for technology and access.
    Questions and Answers for SAM 1.docx
    The document dated September 10, 2024, addresses inquiries regarding the ABE mobile app project overseen by the USDA. It confirms there will be no transition period and clarifies that compliance issues with the App Store are due to the app's use of ColdFusion to render images, which is no longer supported. The document specifies that there is no current backlog of items to complete under the Statement of Work (SOW) and no significant additional development needs are identified. The USDA maintains a small internal team of three staff members for project oversight; thus, the contractor will not be solely responsible for updates or fixes. Infrastructure management is handled by USDA staff, while Tier 1 support is provided by an IT specialist rather than the contractor. The essential data for the project is already captured, and all work can be conducted remotely, with no on-site requirements at the U.S. National Arboretum. Overall, this document serves to clarify operational expectations and responsibilities for contractors engaged in the ABE system enhancements within the context of federal project management and compliance standards.
    Questions and Answers for SAM 2.docx
    The document provides answers to technical questions regarding the development of cross-platform mobile and web applications for the U.S. National Arboretum, guided by the USDA's Request for Proposal (RFP). It confirms that both iOS and Android applications are cross-platform, while a web application is accessible via the USDA's official website. Key backend technologies involve the ArcGIS Maps SDK for JavaScript, with data sourced from the USNA's ArcGIS Enterprise environment. The RFP does not require updates to the user experience of the application, and screenshots of the current applications are available on app stores. Although onsite work is preferred, remote work is permissible, dependent on USDA's discretion. Overall, the document serves as clarification for potential contractors on the technical requirements and operational guidelines outlined in the RFP, reflecting USDA's commitment to transparency and equal opportunity in contracting processes.
    Questions and Answers for SAM 3.docx
    The document outlines responses to questions related to a government RFP concerning the development and maintenance of a mobile application by Blue Raster LLC. Key details include that the project's execution will be entirely remote, with no specific personnel roles mandated. The government will provide necessary hardware and software licenses, including for ArcGIS and AppStudio QT, to facilitate the upgrade of existing applications. The app in question, first developed in 2014, is not currently functional nor available in AppStudio QT. It relies on flat file storage for images served through a web-based system known as ABE and requires quarterly app releases to the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. The government will conduct user acceptance testing involving staff users post-sprint. Security measures must comply with NIST standards, and no integration tests currently exist. The document emphasizes that any additional functionalities not specified in the PWS fall outside the contract scope. The evaluation process will consider past performance, emphasizing proven experience and customer references. The contract award date will determine the start date, with contractors prohibited from contacting the previous vendor for information. Overall, the document delineates the framework for the upcoming contract regarding app development and maintenance, highlighting responsibilities, requirements, and limits.
    Wage Determination WA DC 2015-4281 Rev. 30 07222024.pdf
    The document outlines the structure and components of federal and state/local Requests for Proposals (RFPs) and grants. It emphasizes the significance of specific guidelines and procedures that must be adhered to during the proposal preparation process. Key sections of the document include eligibility criteria, detailed proposal submission requirements, evaluation factors, and the funding process. The document highlights that potential applicants should aim for clarity and comprehensiveness in addressing the evaluation criteria. Additionally, it underscores the importance of demonstrating how proposed activities will fulfill the grant's objectives, ensuring compliance with federal regulations and policies. Overall, the document serves as a crucial resource for prospective applicants who wish to understand the application process for government funding, providing a clear pathway for engagement in competitive grant opportunities. This establishes a foundation for effective project execution, accountability, and resource allocation in responding to RFPs.
    Lifecycle
    Title
    Type
    ABE Software and Application Upgrade
    Currently viewing
    Combined Synopsis/Solicitation
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