1. Introduction
This Request for Information (“RFI”) is issued by the University of Ottawa (the “University”) for the purposes of gathering information about the marketplace to assist in exploring available vendor options for the creation of a mobile research unit, the Accessible Research on Wheels (AROW).
Participation in this RFI is completely optional and is not a requirement to participate in a potential future RFP.
2. Background
The Accessible Research on Wheels (AROW) is to be a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Passenger Van* retrofitted to include two separate sections to accommodate for two group studies at the same time, and a third section for the monitoring of the activities (*according to our market research and analysis, and to the best of our knowledge, the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Passenger Van is the most suitable vehicle for the AROW research purposes and objectives). Importantly, each feature of the AROW is to be specifically designed to create a carefully controlled laboratory setting that is accessible to people with varying physiological and mobility needs: new subfloor and LVT flooring, custom-built cabinetry with ample counter space, vehicle WiFi system, custom seating areas with lift-up cushions for miscellaneous storage, LED light-strips throughout to increase interior visibility, custom workstation with dinette seating, 110v and USB outlets throughout for computing equipment, a generator system to ensure ample electricity, and a power exterior awning (to create an outdoor space that is protected from the sun under which wheel-chair users may participate in the research). There will also be one television located within the AROW (back wall), and an outside television mounting bracket to for outdoor research activities. Please refer to Figure 1 (Accessible Research on Wheels (AROW) proposed layout and floorplan), for more information.
3. Format
The format of the University’s discussions with Respondents will be informally via conference or video calls, on a “1-on-1” basis, between each Respondent and the University. The University anticipates spending about one hour on each call. While not required, the University will also receive written documents from a Respondent, such as technical brochures, catalogues, specification sheets, etc.
The intention of this RFI is not to prequalify respondents, rather, inquire the current market offering and clearly identify the University of Ottawa AROW needs. All suppliers, including those who were not pre‐selected, or suppliers that did not respond to this RFI, will have the opportunity to participate in the upcoming Request for Proposal (RFP).
4. Submission Instructions
Respondents are asked to submit, by email, 1 electronic copy, in PDF, of a completed and signed Respondent Submission Form (Appendix A) by the Submission Deadline to the following RFI Contact:
Charles Gosselin
Senior Procurement Officer | Procurement Services, Research, University of Ottawa
Email: cgossel2@uottawa.ca
All questions, inquires, or communications regarding this RFI or the AROW Project must be directed to the RFI Contact listed above. Respondents must not contact any other University employee.
Please refer to RFI document for full information.
