The requirement is for services needed to convene an Expert Consensus Panel to define measurement objectives for a Current Population Survey (CPS) supplement to measure contingent and alternative employment arrangements. The Panel will conduct a public workshop to identify stakeholder and public perspectives on the topic. Based on that workshop, and their expert opinions, the Panel will conduct internal deliberations and produce a consensus report summarizing the recommended measurement objectives for a new CPS supplement on the topic.

Market research efforts have established that the National Academies is the only source capable of providing the services at the level of expertise required. Given the importance of the data for economic policy, recommendations for measurement objectives must be based on research which is highly credible, widely accepted, and valued by the stakeholders. Only a National Academies' study meets these criteria.
Furthermore, the National Academies do not compete for federal contracts. The organization is authorized to provide services "on a noncompetitive basis if otherwise in accordance with applicable law and regulations," per Executive Order 12832 of January 19, 1993, Amendments Relating to the National Research Council. Earlier justification comes from a Memorandum dated March 5, 1984 from OMB's Office of Federal Procurement Policy, which specifically states:
"When an executive agency determines that the [National Academies] because of these unique qualifications is the only source which can provide the measure of expertise, independence, objectivity, and audience acceptance necessary to meet program requirements, acquisition of such services should be processed on a noncompetitive basis under circumstance number one of OFPP Policy: letter 84 2."

The award will be made in accordance with FAR 6.302-1.

This is not a request for competitive quotes; however all interested sources who believe they can meet the requirements may submit a capability statement no later than 5:00pm ET August 10, 2018 to the point of contact listed below. Information received as a result of this notice will be considered solely for the purpose of determining whether to conduct a competitive procurement and will be at the sole discretion of the Contracting Officer.