D -- CLARIFICATIONS AND QUESTIONS/ANSWERS REGARDING 10/19/2000 CBD NOTICE 5047E2: USPS EMPLOYEE INTERNET CONNECTIVITY PROGRAM

Notice Date

October 31, 2000

Contracting Office

U.S. Postal Service, Headquarters Purchasing, Room 4541, 475 L'Enfant Plaza, SW., Washington, DC 20260-6230

ZIP Code

20260-6230

Response Due

November 6, 2000

Point of Contact

Carol Fagnani, Contracting Officer, email: cfagnan1@email.usps.gov Note that last character of email name is the number one

E-Mail Address

Contact contracting officer via email (cfagnan1@email.usps.gov)

Description

Clarification and Questions/Answers regarding 10/19/00 CBD Notice 5047E2, October 19, 2000: USPS EMPLOYEE INTERNET CONNECTIVITY PROGRAM Clarification: Only Windows 2000 ME will be acceptable in the minimum required configuration and any optional system configurations. In the original CBD posting (October 19, 2000) either Windows 98 or Windows 2000 had been acceptable. Also, the minimum configuration includes a keyboard and a printer cable to connect the printer to the system unit. Question #1 Does the comment under item number 12 of the evaluation factors "The USPS prefers that the monthly cost, for the basic system configuration and internet access cost [to] the employee, not exceed $12 per month on a monthly basis, for a period not to exceed 36 months" refer to the cost of the hardware, ISP software, and VPN connectivity, or does it refer to just the ISP software and connectivity (with the hardware priced and financed separately)? Answer #1 The requirement is that the ISP software and connectivity be free to USPS employees. That is a requirement separate and distinct from the base hardware requirements. It is also required that other program requirements, for example , the overall program support requirements, end user ISP support requirements and the secure VPN connectivity be provided at no cost to the employee whether they opt into the hardware buy program or not. The cost example is just an example. That is not to suggest that this be the only acceptable cost for the minimum hardware configuration with the hardware warranty requirement and shipping to the employee. The cost proposal for the base hardware configuration is up to the provider. However, the lowest possible monthly cost for employees is a key program objective and part of the overall evaluation. It is required that this be offered to the employee on a basis such that monthly payments can be made against the total cost of the minimum system configuration as defined. Question #2 For those people who have a computer but desire ISP and VPN access, can the supplier establish a monthly rate separate from "the basic system configuration and internet access cost" stated under item number 12 of the evaluation factors. Answer #2 No. the cost for the basic dial up ISP access and VPN secure access and software is to be free of charge to the employee and not linked to the requirement that they secure a hardware configuration which is at their voluntary option. If the provider wishes to provide enhanced connectivity options such as DSL or cable modem access then those may be offered separately on a fee charged basis. Question #3 Is the supplier required to provide toll free number access to those employees who only need ISP and VPN access but are not within a local calling area covered by the ISP? Answer #3 Yes. Again, the goal is designed to ensure that the employee has access to the internet at no cost or nominal cost, i.e. local telephone access charges only. Question #4 Since USPS is responsible for establishing a VPN to securely access their Intranet, please confirm that it is not the supplier's responsibility to administer employee user IDs and passwords for accessing the VPN. Answer #4 That is correct. The USPS will administer all user IDs and passwords to permit employee access to USPS intranet systems via the VPN. However, it is the responsibility of the provider to administer employee user IDs and passwords for their provided ISP access. Question #5 Will there be exceptions to the requirement to use USPS mail stream shipping when appropriately packaged component box sizes exceed Postal maximums? Answer #5 Yes, providers are not required to ship systems through the USPS mailstream which are not mailable within current USPS shipping regulations. The USPS would like the provider to indicate their intended alternate carrier in this situation so that we can advise employees of this in advance.

Record

Loren Data Corp. 20001102/DSOL008.HTM (W-305 SN505688)