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</o:shapelayout></xml><![endif]--></head><body lang=EN-US link=blue vlink=purple><div class=WordSection1><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif";color:#1F497D'>Fyi<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif";color:#1F497D'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif";color:#1F497D'>Jw<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif";color:#1F497D'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif";color:#1F497D'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><div><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif";color:#0F243E'>Dr. J. Webster Smith<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif";color:#0F243E'>President, National Federation of the Blind of Ohio<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif";color:#0F243E'>PO Box 458 Athens, OH 45701<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif";color:#0F243E'>740-592-6326<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif";color:#0F243E'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif";color:#0F243E'>“Changing what it means to be blind”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif";color:#0F243E'>For more information go to nfbohio.org<o:p></o:p></span></p></div><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:11.0pt;font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif";color:#1F497D'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><div><div style='border:none;border-top:solid #B5C4DF 1.0pt;padding:3.0pt 0in 0in 0in'><p class=MsoNormal><b><span style='font-size:10.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma","sans-serif"'>From:</span></b><span style='font-size:10.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma","sans-serif"'> Shirley Marchi [mailto:eileen@rsc-ohio.ccsend.com] <b>On Behalf Of </b>Shirley Marchi<br><b>Sent:</b> Monday, September 19, 2011 2:08 PM<br><b>To:</b> jwsmithnfb@frontier.com<br><b>Subject:</b> Statewide Vocational Rehabilitation Fee Schedule Request for Proposal<o:p></o:p></span></p></div></div><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><div align=center><table class=MsoNormalTable border=0 cellpadding=0 width=595 style='width:446.25pt;background:white'><tr><td width="100%" style='width:100.0%;padding:.75pt .75pt .75pt .75pt'><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:8.0pt;font-family:"Verdana","sans-serif";color:black'>Having trouble viewing this email? <a href="http://campaign.r20.constantcontact.com/render?llr=sodtqjcab&v=001u9MKVAvAK1yI3NXE2D4OjwaXn2aGllvhF6R1668Du12PGdjeMDyFRUlFZSF9ZhlbjHLvFxNe_ve_EJJDm4SxORsi05mbRL8d9Gbw_kNl-g6yS_D2o4NJ2w%3D%3D" target="_blank">Click here </a><o:p></o:p></span></p></td></tr></table></div><p class=MsoNormal align=center style='text-align:center'><o:p> </o:p></p><div align=center><table class=MsoNormalTable border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=0 width="100%" style='width:100.0%;background:#364D5A'><tr><td valign=top style='padding:0in 0in 0in 0in'><div align=center><table class=MsoNormalTable border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=0 width=600 style='width:6.25in'><tr><td width="100%" style='width:100.0%;padding:.75pt .75pt .75pt .75pt'><table class=MsoNormalTable border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=0 width="100%" style='width:100.0%'><tr><td style='padding:0in 0in 0in 0in'><p class=MsoNormal align=center style='text-align:center'><span style='border:solid windowtext 1.0pt;padding:0in'><img border=0 width=100 height=100 id="Picture_x0020_1" src="cid:~WRD000.jpg" alt="Description: Image removed by sender. Ohio Rehabilitation Services Commission"></span><o:p></o:p></p></td></tr></table></td></tr><tr><td style='background:#253247;padding:.75pt .75pt .75pt .75pt'><table class=MsoNormalTable border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=0 width="100%" style='width:100.0%' id="content_LETTER.BLOCK2"><tr><td width=430 valign=top style='width:322.5pt;background:white;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in'><table class=MsoNormalTable border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=0 width="100%" style='width:100.0%'><tr><td width="100%" valign=top style='width:100.0%;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in'><table class=MsoNormalTable border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=0 width="100%" style='width:100.0%'><tr><td style='padding:11.25pt 11.25pt 11.25pt 11.25pt'><p align=center style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-align:center'><span style='font-size:16.0pt;font-family:"Arial Narrow","sans-serif";color:#B8472E'> <strong><span style='font-family:"Arial Narrow","sans-serif"'>***ANNOUNCEMENT REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS***</span></strong><o:p></o:p></span></p><p align=center style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-align:center'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial Narrow","sans-serif";color:#B8472E'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p align=center style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-align:center'><strong><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial Narrow","sans-serif";color:#A20000'>Statewide Vocational Rehabilitation Fee Schedule Request for Proposals</span></strong><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial Narrow","sans-serif";color:#A20000'><br> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial Narrow","sans-serif";color:#A20000'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>Request for Proposals (RFP) <br>RFP# FS--VR-101711<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'><br>Bureau of Vocational Rehabilitation <br>Bureau of Services for the Visually Impaired<br>150 East Campus View Blvd<br>Columbus, OH 43235-4604<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>September 19, 2011<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'><br><strong><span style='font-family:"Arial","sans-serif"'>Statewide Vocational Rehabilitation Fee Schedule</span></strong><o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>Bureau of Vocational Rehabilitation<br>Bureau of Services for the Visually Impaired<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>400 East Campus View Blvd. - 3AD<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>Columbus, OH 43235-4604 <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'><br><strong><span style='font-family:"Arial","sans-serif"'>To: </span></strong> Interested Individuals/Entities<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><strong><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>From: </span></strong><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'> Susan Pugh, Deputy Director<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><strong><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>Re: </span></strong><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'> Vocational Rehabilitation Fee Schedule Request for <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'> Proposals (RFP) <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'><br><strong><span style='font-family:"Arial","sans-serif"'>Date: </span></strong> 9/19/11<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial Narrow","sans-serif";color:#A20000'><br> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>The Ohio Rehabilitation Services Commission (RSC) is seeking proposals for a statewide Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) fee schedule. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>This contract is anticipated to be awarded by 10/24/11 and will conclude by 5/1/11.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>The requirements and the selection criteria for proposals are set forth in the BELOW WEBSITE:<br> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'> <a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?llr=sodtqjcab&et=1107715130656&s=7826&e=001J63yudfkNnlt2oNdao15-R1iZjysw9cwlbHNSwns2150v60ZOlpMZXZUvihVRvvG0n_zP2v67717U2zMTb2Xg6_6yTV2ioFM0G8jtKHQfLOx2uX4KiMaS5udp-mgCteEyQqOiU_8L-V7DaYJhYX9aA==" target="_blank">http://www.rsc.ohio.gov/Funding_Grants/default.aspx</a><o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>Once you are on the website, click on </span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:#0067CE'>VR Fee Schedule RFP - VR-101711.</span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:16.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><strong><span style='font-size:16.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'> </span></strong><span style='font-size:16.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><strong><span style='font-size:16.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>The deadline for submitting proposals is 10/17/11.</span></strong><span style='font-size:16.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><strong><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'> </span></strong><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>The vendor is to submit five (5) HARD COPIES. The proposal must be received by the Ohio Rehabilitation Services Commission by 5:00 pm on 10/17/11. <u>Proposals should be delivered to: </u><o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>Ohio Rehabilitation Services Commission<br>400 East Campus View Blvd. - 3AD<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>Columbus, Ohio 43235-4604<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>Attn: Susan Pugh<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial Narrow","sans-serif";color:black'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>Questions concerning this announcement or the Request for Proposals can be directed to Greg Dormer at </span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial Narrow","sans-serif";color:#A20000'><a href="mailto:Greory.Dormer@rsc.ohio.gov" target="_blank"><span style='font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>Gregory.Dormer@rsc.ohio.gov</span></a></span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'> or (614)-438-1468. </span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial Narrow","sans-serif";color:#A20000'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'> </span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial Narrow","sans-serif";color:#A20000'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>Answers to questions will be posted on RSC's webpage. </span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial Narrow","sans-serif";color:#A20000'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'> </span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial Narrow","sans-serif";color:#A20000'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>Interested individuals are responsible for checking the website for any questions and answers that are posted and/or updates to the RFP.</span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial Narrow","sans-serif";color:#A20000'><br> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><strong><u><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>I. Purpose of Project</span></u></strong><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>The Ohio Rehabilitation Services Commission (RSC) is the state agency charged with partnering with Ohio citizens with disabilities to achieve employment and independence. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>The Bureau of Vocational Rehabilitation (BVR) and Bureau of Services for the Visually Impaired (BSVI) partner with individuals with disabilities to achieve quality employment outcomes.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>In spite of higher unemployment and economic downturns, 5,707 Ohioans with disabilities obtained or retained competitive employment through RSC in Federal Fiscal Year (FFY) 2010. These individuals worked an average of 31.6 hours per week at an average hourly rate of $12.75.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>During this same fiscal year, RSC received 40,319 referrals for Ohioans with disabilities. A number of services purchased to prepare and place an individual with a disability in a job setting are currently purchased in an "open market" setting. For example, a 2009 analysis (see Appendix F) found that Community Based Assessment fees ranged from $18.00 per hour to $87.00 per hour. Likewise, Job Coaching services ranged from $20.00 per hour to $120.00 per hour. A fee schedule was not implemented as a result of this 2009 analysis.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>The Ohio Rehabilitation Services Commission desires to contract with a vendor to recommend a statewide Vocational Rehabilitation fee schedule for services for Ohioans with disabilities.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><u><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>For the purpose of this RFP, the following definitions apply:</span></u><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'><o:p></o:p></span></p><ul style='margin-top:0in' type=disc><li class=MsoNormal style='color:black;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif"'>Vendor- an individual/entity interested in this opportunity. <o:p></o:p></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='color:black;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif"'>Contractor- the successful vendor selected through this RFP<o:p></o:p></span></li><li class=MsoNormal style='color:black;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif"'>Fee Schedule- a list of services a provider(s) performs and the amount that the provider(s) can charge for each service. <o:p></o:p></span></li></ul><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>This Request for Proposal document is released by the Rehabilitation Services Commission and the subsequent contract expected to result from this RFP process will be a contract between the selected vendor and RSC.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>The vendor's response to the Request for Proposal will be considered part of the contract. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>RSC will designate a staff member as the RSC Contract Manager to provide on-going supervision of the contractor selected through this RFP.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>No extensions or renewals are planned for the contract expected to result from this RFP.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>RSC will only accept proposals from vendors that demonstrate their capability of providing services as described in this RFP. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>RSC is under no obligation to enter into a contract with any vendor as a result of this solicitation if, in the opinion of RSC, none of the proposals are responsive to the objectives and needs of the Agency. RSC reserves the right to not select any vendor should RSC decide not to proceed. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:#A20000'><br></span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>Answers to questions regarding this Request for Proposal will be posted on RSC's webpage. Interested individuals are responsible for checking the website for any questions and answers and/or updates to the RFP that are posted. All vendors are responsible for obtaining any such changes without further notice by RSC.</span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:#A20000'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'> </span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:#A20000'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><strong><u><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>II. Project Overview and Objectives</span></u></strong><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>The Code of Federal Regulations (34 CFR 361.50, attached as Appendix A) indicates that RSC may establish a fee schedule designed to ensure a reasonable cost to the program for each service, if the schedule is-<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='mso-margin-top-alt:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:22.5pt;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>(i) Not so low as to effectively deny an individual a necessary service; and<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='mso-margin-top-alt:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:22.5pt;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'><br>(ii) Not absolute and permits exceptions so that the individual needs can be addressed i.e. geographic differences<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>The objectives of this project are as follows:<br> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>1. Create a Fee Schedule for services provided for vocational rehabilitation<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial Narrow","sans-serif";color:black'><br> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>2. Produce a report with comprehensive analysis, that:<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial Narrow","sans-serif";color:#A20000'><br></span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>a) Utilizes data from the Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA) and other federal entities; </span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial Narrow","sans-serif";color:#A20000'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial Narrow","sans-serif";color:#A20000'><br></span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>b) Utilizes data from states other than Ohio;</span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial Narrow","sans-serif";color:#A20000'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial Narrow","sans-serif";color:#A20000'><br></span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>c) Utilizes data from other State of Ohio agencies such as the Bureau of Workers Compensation, Department of Developmental Disabilities, Department of Mental Health; and</span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial Narrow","sans-serif";color:#A20000'><br> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>d) Utilizes data from service providers and associations. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><strong><u><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>III. Tentative Project Timelines</span></u></strong><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>This project will be implemented within the following timetable:<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='mso-margin-top-alt:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:22.5pt;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>September 19, 2011 RSC Releases RFP to Potential Vendors on DAS/RSC Web Site; Q&A Period<br> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='mso-margin-top-alt:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:22.5pt;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>- RFP becomes active<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'><br> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='mso-margin-top-alt:0in;margin-right:0in;margin-bottom:0in;margin-left:22.5pt;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>- Vendors may submit questions and inquiries for RFP clarification to: <a href="mailto:gregory.dormer@rsc.oh.gov" target="_blank"><span style='color:black'>gregory.dormer@rsc.oh.gov</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>September 28, 2011 Preliminary Vendor Q&A Period Closes, 8 a.m. (for inquiries for RFP Clarification) <br> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>October 5, 2011 RSC provides Preliminary Vendor Question & Answer Document <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>October 11, 2011 RSC hosts live Bidder Conference for Vendors to seek Final Clarification and receive answers from RSC<br> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>October 17, 2011 FIVE Final Hard Copy Proposals due to RSC by 5:00 p.m.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'><br> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>October 24, 2011 Vendor Selection is made<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'><br>May 1, 2012 Project Completion<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial Narrow","sans-serif";color:#A20000'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><strong><u><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>IV. Scope of Work</span></u></strong><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>The vendor selected via this RFP process will recommend a fee schedule that a provider can charge to provide services to individuals with disabilities. The project must be completed and presented to RSC no later than May 1, 2012. The fee schedule should include the following:<br> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>a) The minimum credential and/or training required for the<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>individual(s) to deliver the service.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:#A20000'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>b) The recommended unit of service such as hourly, weekly, per assessment, etc.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:#A20000'><br></span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>c) Fees that are designated as "maximum rates." RSC recognizes that rates may vary in different geographical areas or related to the significance of the disability of the person served. </span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:#A20000'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>RSC has created a list of services that require a fee schedule. The vendor will gather information from RSC staff, providers, associations, state agencies, etc., to determine the scope of the work necessary to deliver each of these services. Appendix B lists the services for which the vendor will create a fee schedule.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><strong><u><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>V. Specifications of Deliverables</span></u></strong><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>This section sets forth the minimum activities and deliverables that will be required of the selected vendor under the contract expected from this RFP: <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>The vendor will be responsible for the following activities: <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>1. Gathering and analyzing: <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>· Fee schedules of other states that are comparable in size, budget and quality standards to Ohio (for example meeting standards and indicators) <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:#A20000'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>· Fee structures utilized by Ohio and other state VR programs to determine models that promote greatest efficiency and produce the best outcomes<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:#A20000'><br></span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>· Industry standards for qualifications for individuals delivering services</span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:#A20000'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:#A20000'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>· Fee schedules from State of Ohio agencies and federal agencies (if applicable)<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:#A20000'><br></span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>· Stakeholder's feedback; which may include, but is not limited to, the vendor developing and conducting surveys, focus groups and key informant interviews with associations, providers, etc.</span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:#A20000'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'> </span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:#A20000'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>2. Publishing a recommended Fee Schedule to the Executive Director of RSC that describes the following:<br> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>· How the content was developed, including resource details (staff/data), approach and/or methodologies that were utilized, which includes, but is not limited to, data gathering/statistically sound analyses, sound economic and market-driven principles and recommendations and stakeholder surveys/feedback.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>3. Present a plan to follow up and make additional recommendations regarding the implementation of the Fee Schedule.<br> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'> · Timelines recommended are 90 days, 180 days, 270 days and one year after implementation.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>4. Presenting reports of findings to the RSC Executive Director.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial Narrow","sans-serif";color:black'><br> </span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>· A bi-monthly, electronic status report detailing progress;</span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial Narrow","sans-serif";color:black'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial Narrow","sans-serif";color:#A20000'><br></span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>· A research abstract of the project;</span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial Narrow","sans-serif";color:#A20000'><br></span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'> </span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial Narrow","sans-serif";color:#A20000'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>· A comprehensive narrative technical report to reflect collected data and analyses and comparative data across geographic areas;</span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial Narrow","sans-serif";color:#A20000'><br></span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'> </span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial Narrow","sans-serif";color:#A20000'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>· Visual representation of data findings, using charts, graphs, and maps;</span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial Narrow","sans-serif";color:#A20000'><br></span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'> </span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial Narrow","sans-serif";color:#A20000'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>· An Executive Summary of the research findings and recommendations; in</span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial Narrow","sans-serif";color:#A20000'> </span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>electronic PDF and editable Word 2007 format, along with 20 hard copies;</span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial Narrow","sans-serif";color:#A20000'><br> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>· A Microsoft Power Point presentation of the highlights of the project, the Executive Summary, and the recommendations; and<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:#A20000'><br>· </span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>Electronic copies of all data used to produce the report. </span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:#A20000'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'> </span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:#A20000'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>The RSC Contract Manager, if unsatisfied with job performance of any of the selected vendor's staff and/or sub-contractors, may ask for replacements. The selected vendor will be subject to a key personnel contractual requirement. RSC must be notified of any impending changes in key personnel and must approve any proposed replacement staff.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'><br><strong><u><span style='font-family:"Arial","sans-serif"'>VI. Eligible Respondents</span></u></strong><o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>RSC will ONLY consider bids from vendors that demonstrate in their proposals that they: <br> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>A. Have background knowledge and experience in creating a fee schedule;<br> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>B. Have no financial interest in the outcome of this project (i.e., employment or contract affiliation with entities from whom RSC purchases services). Colleges and Universities are exempt from requirement B. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'> </span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:#A20000'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>In order to be considered for the project described in this RFP, RSC requires that interested vendors must meet all of the above qualification requirements. Vendors that do not meet all these mandatory requirements will be disqualified from further</span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:#A20000'> </span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>consideration for contract award. </span><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:#A20000'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>Vendors that meet all of these mandatory requirements will then be considered based on the criteria set in sections 1-5 under Proposal Scoring.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>RSC requires that interested vendors provide a response to all of the criteria. Project proposals should be written in a narrative format and include a brief project abstract. Proposals may not exceed 10 double spaced typed pages, excluding attachments. The proposal should include how the project will be managed and the qualifications of key personnel. This information is not intended to be all-inclusive and any other significant details about the proposal should be included accordingly. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><strong><u><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>VII. Proposal Content and Scoring Criteria</span></u></strong><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>A review panel will score the project proposals that are received by the deadline and meet all mandatory requirements. While the actual points for each category are not listed, the categories are listed in descending order of priority. Applicants can score up to 120 points based upon the following criteria: <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>1. Research Methodology <br> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>The vendor must include a project plan with sufficient detail to provide evidence of sound methodologies for the establishment of fees. At a minimum, the project plan should describe how the content will be developed, including resource details (staff/data), data to be gathered, approach and/or methodologies that will be utilized, which includes but is not limited to data gathering/analysis and stakeholder surveys/feedback, and demonstration of producing statistically sound analyses and sound economic and market-driven principles and recommendations.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>A timeline of the proposed steps and resources that will be used to complete the activities listed in this RFP is required.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>2. Subject: Expertise, Experience and Capabilities<br> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>The vendor shall provide the number of years of experience in research and analysis.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>The vendor shall demonstrate knowledge and experience specifically related to individuals with disabilities and the delivery of services to these individuals.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>3. Quality of Work <br> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>The vendor shall provide examples of at least one (1) project that was performed of comparable scope.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>4. Budget <br> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>The vendor must provide a cost proposal as part of their RFP response that delineates the expenditures that will be necessary to complete the work i.e. staff, travel, lodging, report writing. The unit of service to be billed to RSC is hourly. Travel, meals, lodging, etc. should be itemized separately (see Cost Proprosal, Appendix C).<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>Note: Travel costs are the expenses for transportation, lodging, meals, and related items incurred by employees who are in travel status on official business. Travel costs are allowable when they are directly attributable to specific work under the award. Rates for per diem (meals and lodging) are available at <a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?llr=sodtqjcab&et=1107715130656&s=7826&e=001J63yudfkNnmzVGFpol-Yovy5o71bJY70dTvN1ynWI9jgNoHACCoL29qJy8Wr-XR_aPtiAhWxaE45p9IDji1jjnOjgbelJjhyT7IuwNr_Dfp4G2LY--67LcwzROE1TJilzSWAene33Gs=" target="_blank"><span style='color:black'>http://www.gsa.gov/portal/category/100120</span></a>.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>5. Organization and Staffing <br> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>The vendor must demonstrate significant expertise and comprehension of the work described in this RFP, with an implementation plan, by assigning staff to key leadership roles for this project. Key positions require profiles and curriculum vitae. The vendor must identify and assign a Project Manager who has been responsible for producing research projects and include resumes with education and pertinent experience of the Project Manager, etc. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>Note: The vendor must identify what, if any, portions of the project will be sub-contracted. RSC reserves the right to approval all subcontractors. If subcontracting, then the following information must be provided for each subcontractor:<br> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>a. Name of individual; if it is a company then list both the company and individuals that plan to be assigned.<br> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>b. Nature of sub-contractor business.<br> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>c. Scope of their involvement to the finished product.<br> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>d. Justification for needing to utilize a sub-contractor. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>Final Selection of Projects: After completion of proposal scoring, top candidates may be required to do an oral presentation. RSC reserves the right to make final decisions about contract award selection based upon the needs of the organization. Therefore, scores on the Request for Proposal will not be the sole deciding factor on the selection of projects. Submission of a response to this RFP does not guarantee that RSC will fund the project. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'><br><strong><u><span style='font-family:"Arial","sans-serif"'>VIII. Legal Provisions</span></u></strong><o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>Required Certifications: Applicants are required to certify to a variety of stipulations in order to be eligible for a contract award under this RFP. By signing the Assurances Certification form (Appendix D) and submitting this proposal, the Authorized Representative: 1) certifies that statements made herein are true and complete to the best of his/her knowledge; 2) certifies that this document has been duly authorized by the governing body of the Applicant, and 3) agrees to perform all actions and support all intentions in the assurances certification section if a contract is awarded.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><strong><u><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>IX. Proposal Submission Deadline and Requirements</span></u></strong><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'><o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>Proposals must be received by the Ohio Rehabilitation Services Commission by: 5:00p.m. October 17, 2011.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>Five (5) HARD COPY Proposals must be delivered to: <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt'><span style='font-size:14.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:black'>Ohio Rehabilitation Services Commission<br>Bureau of Vocational Rehabilitation<br>400 East Campus View Blvd. - 3AD<br>Columbus, Ohio 43235-4604<br>Attn: Susan Pugh, Deputy Director<o:p></o:p></span></p></td></tr></table></td></tr><tr><td width="100%" valign=top style='width:100.0%;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in'></td></tr><tr><td width="100%" valign=top style='width:100.0%;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in'></td></tr></table></td><td width=170 valign=top style='width:127.5pt;background:#58482F;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in'></td></tr></table><p class=MsoNormal><o:p> </o:p></p><table class=MsoNormalTable border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=0 width="100%" style='width:100.0%' id="content_LETTER.BLOCK6"><tr><td width="100%" style='width:100.0%;background:#B5A68A;padding:0in 0in 0in 0in'><table class=MsoNormalTable border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=0 width="100%" style='width:100.0%'><tr><td style='padding:3.75pt 3.75pt 3.75pt 3.75pt'><p align=center style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-align:center'><span style='font-size:10.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:#E1D6B9'><br>Director Kevin L. Miller<o:p></o:p></span></p><p align=center style='margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;text-align:center'><span style='font-size:10.0pt;font-family:"Arial","sans-serif";color:#E1D6B9'>Ohio Rehabilitation Services Commission<br>614-438-1470<o:p></o:p></span></p></td></tr></table></td></tr></table></td></tr><tr style='height:7.5pt'><td width="100%" style='width:100.0%;padding:.75pt .75pt .75pt .75pt;height:7.5pt'><table class=MsoNormalTable border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=0 width="100%" style='width:100.0%'><tr style='height:11.25pt'><td valign=top style='padding:0in 0in 0in 0in;height:11.25pt'></td></tr></table></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table></div><p class=MsoNormal align=center style='text-align:center;background:white'><span style='display:none'><o:p> </o:p></span></p><div align=center><table class=MsoNormalTable border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=0><tr><td style='padding:0in 0in 0in 0in'><div><p class=MsoNormal style='background:white'><b><span style='font-size:8.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma","sans-serif";color:black'><a href="http://ui.constantcontact.com/sa/fwtf.jsp?llr=sodtqjcab&m=1101978504658&ea=jwsmithnfb%40frontier.com&a=1107715130656" target="_blank">Forward email</a><o:p></o:p></span></b></p></div><table class=MsoNormalTable border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=0 width=619 style='width:464.25pt;background:white'><tr><td style='padding:0in 0in 0in 0in'><table class=MsoNormalTable border=0 cellpadding=0 width="100%" style='width:100.0%'><tr><td width=100 style='width:75.0pt;padding:.75pt .75pt .75pt .75pt'><p class=MsoNormal><a href="http://visitor.constantcontact.com/do?p=un&mse=001gefDXOImcDszZ7aRRzjAgNwbl4nDJrfU&t=00195q_WSg7NA1xKRWMg5Fj6g%3D%3D&llr=sodtqjcab" target="_blank"><span style='border:solid windowtext 1.0pt;padding:0in;text-decoration:none'><img border=0 width=100 height=100 id="Picture_x0020_2" src="cid:~WRD000.jpg" alt="Description: Image removed by sender."></span></a><o:p></o:p></p></td><td width=519 style='width:389.25pt;padding:.75pt .75pt .75pt .75pt'><p class=MsoNormal align=right style='text-align:right'><a href="http://www.constantcontact.com/index.jsp?cc=TEM_News_112" target="_blank"><span style='border:solid windowtext 1.0pt;padding:0in;text-decoration:none'><img border=0 width=100 height=100 id="Picture_x0020_3" src="cid:~WRD000.jpg" alt="Description: Image removed by sender."></span></a><o:p></o:p></p></td></tr></table><div><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:8.5pt;font-family:"Tahoma","sans-serif";color:#2F2F2F'>This email was sent to jwsmithnfb@frontier.com by <a href="mailto:shirley.marchi@rsc.ohio.gov" target="_blank">shirley.marchi@rsc.ohio.gov</a> </span><span style='font-size:8.5pt;font-family:"Tahoma","sans-serif";color:#BABABA'>| </span><span style='font-size:8.5pt;font-family:"Tahoma","sans-serif";color:#2F2F2F'> <o:p></o:p></span></p></div><div><p class=MsoNormal><span style='font-size:8.5pt;font-family:"Tahoma","sans-serif";color:#2F2F2F'><a href="http://visitor.constantcontact.com/do?p=oo&mse=001gefDXOImcDszZ7aRRzjAgNwbl4nDJrfU&t=00195q_WSg7NA1xKRWMg5Fj6g%3D%3D&llr=sodtqjcab" target="_blank">Update Profile/Email Address</a> </span><span style='font-size:8.5pt;font-family:"Tahoma","sans-serif";color:#BABABA'>|</span><span style='font-size:8.5pt;font-family:"Tahoma","sans-serif";color:#2F2F2F'> Instant removal with <a href="http://visitor.constantcontact.com/do?p=un&mse=001gefDXOImcDszZ7aRRzjAgNwbl4nDJrfU&t=00195q_WSg7NA1xKRWMg5Fj6g%3D%3D&llr=sodtqjcab" target="_blank">SafeUnsubscribe</a>™ </span><span style='font-size:8.5pt;font-family:"Tahoma","sans-serif";color:#BABABA'>|</span><span style='font-size:8.5pt;font-family:"Tahoma","sans-serif";color:#2F2F2F'> <a href="http://ui.constantcontact.com/roving/CCPrivacyPolicy.jsp" target="_blank">Privacy Policy</a>.<o:p></o:p></span></p></div></td></tr></table><p class=MsoNormal style='background:white'><span style='font-size:9.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma","sans-serif";color:black'>Ohio Rehabilitation Services Commission</span><span style='font-size:9.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma","sans-serif";color:#BABABA'> | </span><span style='font-size:9.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma","sans-serif";color:black'>400 E. Campus View Blvd.</span><span style='font-size:9.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma","sans-serif";color:#BABABA'> | </span><span style='font-size:9.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma","sans-serif";color:black'>Columbus</span><span style='font-size:9.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma","sans-serif";color:#BABABA'> | </span><span style='font-size:9.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma","sans-serif";color:black'>OH</span><span style='font-size:9.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma","sans-serif";color:#BABABA'> | </span><span style='font-size:9.0pt;font-family:"Tahoma","sans-serif";color:black'>43235-4604<o:p></o:p></span></p></td></tr></table></div><p class=MsoNormal><span style='border:solid windowtext 1.0pt;padding:0in'><img border=0 width=1 height=1 id="Picture_x0020_4" src="cid:image001.jpg@01CC775E.713128A0" alt="Description: Image removed by sender."></span><o:p></o:p></p></div></body></html>