USPS Request for Vendors, RFI

Purpose
The United States Postal Service, Office of Inspector General intends to award a fixed price contract to a qualified research organization or firm to assist the United States Postal Service, Office of the Inspector General staff in developing a strategy and report on mail markets and the Green Movement. The “Green Movement” describes the environmental concern for the preservation, restoration, or improvement of the natural environment.

Scope of Work
Standard Mail is now the Postal Service’s largest mail category in terms of volume. It is also the mail class most associated with advertising and catalog pieces. Many observers view Standard Mail as the Postal Service’s key to future success. However, fundamental changes are taking place. Growing environmental concerns on the use of paper mail for advertising and potential consumer backlash are threatening demand for such mail. Tolerance of advertising mail may also be diminishing. Several states have introduced “Do-Not-Mail” legislation and customer “opt-out” programs may be proliferating. The market is no longer composed of simply senders and recipients with the Postal Service acting as an intermediary. Other influential groups are now staking their claims. In this light, the OIG seeks to study and report on the changing Standard Mail market, the influence of the Green Movement, and the rise of new stakeholders. The goal is to develop a study, which examines strategy and strikes a balance among competing stakeholder concerns. The study and report will include:

1. Development of strategies for the Postal Service as a facilitator engaged in the evolving dynamics of conflicting stakeholder interests, which may not be in the direct business interest of the Postal Service;
2. Develop ways to encourage more finely targeted advertising and “Green” postal services specifically designed to be better tolerated by recipients and concerned stakeholders;
3. Professional advice regarding mail lists that may better target the types of mail customers want to receive while eliminating the types they do not;
4. Professional advice on effectively targeting advertising and new mail produced to mitigate environmental waste concerns;
5. A review of current legal constraints and potential remedies;
6. The resultant report will be the property of the OIG, and the OIG reserves the right to publish the report or a similar report under its own name.

The OIG is outsourcing much of this work. Each task represents a part of the ultimate strategic study, so prospective providers should recognize how each task relates to the other tasks to provide a meaningful comprehensive report. The OIG will assist in coordination of the work efforts and will aid the contractors in gathering internal postal information. OIG staff may also provide input during the research and writing of the results .

This study and report may be critical to the future success of the Postal Service. For this reason, care and due diligence must be exercised in performing all aspects of this work. The primary tasks, deliverables, and evaluative criteria are described below.

FedBizOpps
 

USPS Inspection Service Seeking Technology to Track People, Packages, Letters and Vehicles

Tracking RFI

The mission of the Postal Inspection Service is to protect the assets of the Postal Service.  To do so, it is sometimes required that IS personnel be able to track people, vehicles and packages.  As such, the IS seeks to determine the devices available in the market place that fulfill IS requirements.

The IS is interested in devices that utilize GPS, assisted GPS, cell phone, radio frequency and internet (IP) based technologies.  Several typical scenarios are described below in very general terms. 

Scenario 1 –

Vehicle Tracking- fixed installation

Under this scenario, IS will track a vehicle from 1 day to 3 week. The tracking device may be fixed to the vehicle and powered from vehicle power or battery.  All modes of tracking, i.e. GPS, DF, cellular assisted, IP and RF are of interest.  If device uses more than one method of tracking explain how this accomplished and under what conditions.  Explain how the vehicle may, or may not be constantly tracked as it moves into areas that may not have GPS, as example, coverage.  Explain how operator tracks the vehicle.

Questions Surrounding Operating Conditions:

1. How is the device affixed to the vehicle?

2. Can the device be powered from vehicle power?

3. What types of batteries are used?  Are they readily available?  Are they rechargeable? 

4. What is the battery time/operating time (in pings/responses)?

5. Is there a sleep mode?  Can the devise be woken upon command and/or motion?

6. What are antenna capabilities/requirements fro the target vehicle?

7. What are antenna capabilities/requirements for the tracking vehicle?

8. What is the mapping software?  How is it licensed?

9. Is target information reported to a server and can it be a USPIS server?

10. How often does the target unit report back position and how is this controlled?

11. What is the anticipated tracking range and the assumptions/conditions for the estimate?

12. Delineate all costs involved.

Scenario 2 –

Vehicle Tracking- temporary installation

Under this scenario, IS will track a vehicle from 1 day to 3 weeks. The device will be used in a “slap and dash mode” in which case the device must be self contained.  All modes of tracking, i.e. GPS, DF, cellular assisted, IP and RF are of interest.  If device uses more than one method of tracking explain how this accomplished and under what conditions.  Explain how the vehicle may, or may not be constantly tracked as it moves into areas that may not have GPS, as example, coverage.  Explain how operator tracks the vehicle.

Questions Surrounding Operating Conditions:

1. How is the device affixed to the vehicle?

2. What type of batteries are used?  Are they readily available?  Are they rechargeable? 

3. What is the battery life/operating time (n pings/responses)?

4. Is there a sleep mode?  Can the devise be woken upon command and/or motion?

5. What are antenna capabilities/requirements fro the target vehicle?

6. What are antenna capabilities/requirements fro the tracking vehicle?

7. What is mapping software?  How is it licensed?

8. Is target information reported to a server and can it be a USPIS server?

9. How often does the target unit report back position and how is this controlled?

10. What is the anticipated tracking range and the assumptions/conditions for the estimate?

11. Delineate all costs involved.

Scenario 3 –

Data Logging

Under this scenario, IS will track the whereabouts of vehicle from 1 day to 3 week. The logging device may “slapped” to a vehicle using magnets and must be self contained.  Alternatively, it may be affixed to the vehicle and powered from vehicle power or battery.  Explain how logging intervals are set.  Explain data is retrieved.  Explain how logged data may be viewed.

Questions Surrounding Operating Conditions:

1. How is the device affixed to the vehicle?

2. What  type of batteries are used?  Are they readily available?  Are they rechargeable?  What is the operating time when using batteries?

3. Is the time interval between position fixes programmable?

4. How is data retrieved? 

5. Is the data compatible to software? If so, what brands?

6. Is there a sleep mode?  Can the devise be woken upon command and/or motion?

7. What are antenna capabilities/requirements?

8. Delineate all costs involved.

Scenario 4-

Package or letter tracking

Under this scenario USPIS seeks to track a package or letter.  Typically, the tracking is initiated by motion or a break wire and the time actively tracking is short.  It may be required to track or locate with buildings or other structures.  Explain how locations or tracking is accomplished, i.e. GPS, cellular assisted, DF or combination.  Explain what happens as device move in or out of a structure.  Explain time required for GPS synchronization. Explain if the device is approved for domestic or international air travel.

Questions Surrounding Operating Conditions:

1. What type of batteries are used?  Are they readily available?  Are they rechargeable? 

2. What is the life of in pings/responses?

3. How may the device be activated?

4. Can the device be placed in a sleep mode?

5. Is the device approved for on aircraft?

6. What are antenna capabilities/requirements at the tracking vehicle?

7. What type of monitor device is used by the tracking units?

8. Can mapping software be used? What is mapping software?  How is it licensed?

9. Delineate all costs involved.

10. What is the anticipated tracking range and the assumptions/conditions for the estimate?

Scenario 5-

In this scenario, USPIS seeks to follow and/or locate an individual.  The individual target would be cooperative.  This is a broad requirement and the IS would be interested to learn of any tracking devices that may be applicable.  The vendor should clearly delineate the operation and use of any equipment. 

Questions Surrounding Operating Conditions:

1. How may the device be activated?

2. Can the device be placed in a sleep mode?

3. What type of monitor device is used by the tracking units?

4. Can mapping software be used? What is mapping software?  How is it licensed?

5. Delineate all costs involved.

6. What is the anticipated tracking range and the assumptions/conditions for the estimate?

Instructions

Vendors are invited to describe each device that may support the scenario, the tracking technologies used and the functional operation of the device in the given scenario.  Additionally, for each device, the Questions Surrounding Operating Conditions should be answered.  Responses shall be limited to 3 pages and shall be submitted in electronic format and four hard copies.  If the vendor has more than one device that fulfills the requirements, a separate response shall be submitted for each device.  If two devices must be used in concert to support a scenario, single vendor response should be submitted. All cost factors must be completely provided.

In addition to the above response the vendor may submit product specifications, data sheets or other marketing materials.  Four hard copies are to be provided. 

The Inspection Service (IS) may at its discretion, request additional information from vendors or request product demonstrations. This RFI does not constitute intent to procure.

All questions shall be submitted to Anthony Coviello (anthony.j.coviello@usps.gov)   and Reginald Brown (reginald.brown@usps.gov) via email and responses to questions will be sent via email as well. 

Hard copies should be submitted to the following mailing address:

USPIS TSD

AJ Coviello Suite 195

22340 Dresden St.

Dulles VA 20166-9315

RFI Submission Date:  April 30, 2008

Clauses and Provisions:

Provision A-2: Solicitation for Information or Planning Purposes

Click here for PDF file

More info from FedBizOpps

USPS Seeking Info On Automatic Vending Machine Manufacturing

 posted October 12, 2007

From Federal Business Opportunities:

THIS REQUEST FOR INFORMATION ONLY-  The United States Postal Service (USPS) is seeking information regarding the potential for strategic partnerships to provide a modular kiosk solution capable of printing postage-on-demand, dispensing/vending postal products, supporting shipping and mailing functions, and providing supplemental or complementary services (government or non-government). The USPS needs to understand the feasibility of strategic partnerships to provide this solution in an attempt to expand our alternative access capabilities, provide ease of use for postal customers, and provide self-service options during and after normal retail operations. In addition, the USPS needs to understand the ability of providers within the market to fully support this solution (deploy, maintain, stock, and support) at no cost to the USPS

USPS  to Evaluate Responses to Postal Unions Request for Information

 posted August 14, 2007

USPS Seeking suppliers who are experts in Statistics - The supplier will provide the U.S. Postal Service Law Department professional services to evaluate Postal Service responses to requests for information from postal unions to determine (a) the frequency that the Postal Services receives such requests (b) the mean and median lengths of time for supervisors/managers to respond to requests; (c) the completeness of responses; and (d) related matters as may be requests. The supplier will also determine, if possible, why responses take more than 14 days in some instances. The supplier will also provide professional services to evaluate the Postal Service responses to determine (a) the number of such requests; (b) how often such requests are satisfied (i.e., granted or not granted); and (c) related matters as may be request. The services will consist of consultation, analysis, a written report and /or testimony before judges and /or arbitrators.

      Source:  http://fs2.fbo.gov/EPSData/USPS/Synopses/3565/R00013121740/1_StatementofWork-NLRB.pdf

Postal Package Processing (3P) Program

posted July 4, 2007

In concert with its Strategic Transformation Plan 2006-2010, the United States Postal Service (USPS) is evaluating the augmentation and potential replacement of its existing fleet of legacy sorting machines with new equipment that will improve operational efficiency to reduce costs associated with package processing. This new equipment will be developed under the program name Postal Package Processing System, commonly referred to as “3P”.

To achieve optimal equipment performance, the USPS plans to purchase a variety of commercially produced modules that, when integrated, comprise a fully functional package processing system. The modules anticipated to produce a complete 3P System include the following:

• Package Feed Mechanization (PFM)
• Pallet Bundles Destacker
• Parcels and Mixed Products Singulator (PMPS)
• Manual-Assist with Separator
• Mail Piece Information Capture (MPIC)
• Recognition (RECO)
• Sortation
• System Control and Management Software (SCMS)

USPS Engineering will evaluate vendor technical proposals for the purpose of awarding contracts to one or more Suppliers for each of these modules. USPS Engineering will subsequently manage the integration (design, development, interconnection, and commissioning), documentation and testing of these modules into a prototype 3P System. This prototype system will be assembled and tested at a postal facility located in the Washington DC Metropolitan Area.

After the performance of the prototype 3P System is successfully validated, the USPS will determine the feasibility to exercise the optional Contract Line Item Numbers (CLIN) included in each module’s contract award for the production and deployment of 3P Systems into postal facilities that can economically justify the investment.

The Supplier’s Project Plan shall provide for adequate resources to deploy three (3) Sortation Modules per month during the production phase. This deployment shall include the time to deliver, assemble, debug and test each Sortation Module through satisfactory completion of the acceptance testing.

Deployment Schedule (subject to change)

The Supplier shall deploy the prototype and production Sortation Modules in accordance with the following project plan schedule:

Prototype Sortation Module Contract Award October 2007
Prototype Sortation Module In-Plant Test March 2008
Prototype Sortation Module First Article Test May 2008
Production Sortation Module Contract Award November 2008
Production First Article Testing Sortation Module April 2009
Production Sortation Module #2-4 July 2009
Production Sortation Module #5-7 August 2009
Production Sortation Module #8-10 September 2009
Production Sortation Module #11-13 October 2009
Production Sortation Module #14-16 November 2009
Production Sortation Module #17-19 January 2010
Production Sortation Module #20-22 February 2010
Production Sortation Module #23-25 March 2010
Production Sortation Module #26-28 April 2010
Production Sortation Module #29-31 May 2010
Production Sortation Module #32-34 June 2010
Production Sortation Module #35 July 2010

source: Federal Business Opportunities

 posted June 21, 2007

Postal Lab - Printing, Duplicating Services and Office Supplies

Request for Information Process

The United States Postal Service (USPS) requests information from companies that are interested in participating in an experimental retail arrangement. The USPS has created dedicated leased space in a postal retail center(s) for the shared use by multiple vendors who will service small businesses and home-based businesses, the business traveler and walk-up postal retail customers. The interior of this space uses non-traditional colors, finishes, signage and casework and has a more contemporary feel when compared to traditional Post Offices.

The postal center(s) is located in Chicago's suburb of Schaumburg near the area's largest shopping mall and a possible second site is located in a suburb of Washington, DC. The USPS seeks general information from companies that support direct mail creation photocopying, faxing, mimeographing, laminating, other duplicating services including office supplies or other business related services such as binding and finishing services/materials.

Purpose

USPS is interested in exploring an environment that provides our customers convenient access to a variety of business and related retail services co-located within selected postal retail lobbies. The design of new or possibly converted postal retail offices could be an outcome of the experiments in the Chicago site and possible Washington DC site.

The experimental site provides a contemporary USPS environment featuring; stand-alone checkouts, self-service options, open merchandising, a conference room and consumer/visitor work area, and participants providing complimentary services geared toward the small business owner, offering the products and services germane to their needs.

Areas of Concentration

Businesses classified within the following designations listed below are invited to submit information about their capabilities to the USPS:

The USPS is interested in obtaining information from recognized national or regional companies and locally owned and operated businesses within the above classifications.

Location of US Postal Retail Office:

Chicago, IL Metro Area
United States Postal Service
Woodfield Station
651 Mall Drive
Schaumburg, IL 60173-5911

Hours of Operation - Schaumburg, IL
Core Days: Monday through Saturday except for Postal Holidays
Core Hours: 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM - Monday through Friday
9:00 AM to 3:00 PM - Saturday

Possible second site: Washington DC Metro Area
Duration

The experiment at the Chicago location and possible second location will be a period of time not to exceed 2 years at each location.

http://www2.fbo.gov/spg/USPS/SSP/DePMSC/2BRPSR%2D07%2DRFIPOSTALLAB/SynopsisR.html

     USPS OIG Hiring Workers Compensation Analysts (WCAs)

"Workers Compensation Analyst (WCA) Program Management Services: Manage all stages of the Workers Compensation Analyst (WCA) program for the United States Postal Service Office of Inspector General (USPSOIG) - conducting surveillance activities and videotape activities of suspect claimants and analyzing data from employment, medical, Office of Workers Compensation Programs (OWCP) files, and other pertinent sources for indications of possible loss."

"The Workers Compensation Analyst (WCA) program was developed with the goal of aggressively investigating Workers Compensation Fraud. WCA contracts provided valuable support to these investigations, either through research or surveillance support. WCAs serve as liaisons between the Injury Compensation Unit and the United States Postal Service Office of Inspector General (USPSOIG)."

Synopsis

Statement of Work (DOC)
 

posted April 6, 2007

USPS Intent to Solicit Terminal Handling Services through out the United States and Puerto Rico

This is a notice of the United States Postal Service's intent to solicit for Terminal Handling Services (THS) at 66 sites throughout the United States and Puerto Rico.   The THS provides integrated material handling services in support of the USPS air and ground networks.   This is not a Request for Proposal (RFP), and the Postal Service may or may not issue a formal solicitation.     In the event of a formal solicitation, the time frame for Solicitation is mid-May 2007 with contract award decisions in July 2007.       August 2007.     This pre-solicitation notice also provides potential THS suppliers an opportunity to prequalify to participate further in the process.     The information in this synopsis allows potential suppliers to explore business opportunities at the various locations, including building options, transportation providers, labor resources and other administrative concerns. see synopsis and list of proposed sites (PDF)

http://www.fbo.gov/spg/USPS/TP/NMTP/SNET-07-THS/SynopsisP.html

http://www.fbo.gov/spg/USPS/SSP/APHQ/Reference-Number-ALMS03012007/Modification%2001.html

posted March 5, 2007