Recently Asked Questions

Wayfinding

March 20, 2008

1. Section 1.2 Scope of Work indicates that detailed programming is to be included as part of the project, however, detailed programming of all signage locations and messages is not specifically listed under Specific Project Tasks. Please clarify what the University’s intent is regarding this portion of the project. The scope of work for this engagement is strictly the development of the Master Plan for Wayfinding and Signage. Once this effort is complete, a future project is planned to start the implementation.
2. If the intent from question 1 is to provide master planning only, will the University create another contract to implement the new signage standards? See answer above.
3. What factors are driving the schedule and it’s relatively aggressive completion date of winter 2008? There are no specific factors driving this schedule. Please feel free to include a proposed schedule in your response to the RFQ.
    

March 25, 2008

1. In several places [1.2.1)a, 1.2.2)b2, 1.2.2)b6, 1.2.3)a5] the RFQ alludes to architectural and interiors finishes which help support intuitive and straightforward wayfinding. However the primary point of the request seems to be for conventional wayfinding elements such as signs. Are we to include assessment of the interior finishes and furnishings as they relate to wayfinding? This project is not viewed as strictly a signage project. While the primary scope of the project may ultimately be signage, the goal is to develop an integrated system that incorporates, not only signage, but architectural features and visual queues to direct people around the various  buildings.
2. If so, does the scope in 1.2.3)a5 include “Interior Finishes and Furnishings Standards” as part of the manual? It may.
3. We usually begin our assessments by looking at website wayfinding information, and also analyze any printed map mailers and the like that may go to patients and visitors ahead of their visit. Are these to be included or not? The goal is to develop an integrated system that incorporates all aspects of wayfinding.
4. We also include recommendations on staff training, and system implementation priorities. Should these be included or not? We do not anticipate staff training as part of this engagement. However, it is anticipated that system implementation priorities would be part of the engagement.
5. How many square feet are the main building(s) which are included? 2.3 million GSF.
6. Is the branding for UCHC set or are you rebranding at this time? Branding for UCHC is set. Do you anticipate a rebranding effort as part of this scope? A rebranding effort is not anticipated.

March 26, 2008

1. How can I still submit if I cannot execute your Non-Discrimination Certification or am I misunderstanding the form? Please provide your current Non-Discrimination policy as part of the RFQ Submittal. If your firm is selected to move forward in the selection process, you will be required to submit the Connecticut Non-Discrimination Certification form at that time.

April 1, 2008

1. Please clarify whether you require all RFQ submissions to be provided in 5 binders or does that just apply to the short-listed firms who are supplying proposals? All firms that are submitting responses to the RFQ are required to submit 5 bound copies.
2. We normally bind our RFQ submissions in house with a spiral binding. Is this acceptable? As long as they are bound, this method is acceptable.

April 2, 2008

1. What is meant by “visual enhancements”? (page 4) The expectation is that not all wayfinding is done, or should be done, with signage. The Master Plan should incorporate various methods of wayfinding.

2. What interior sign system(s) exist now at the Health Center? Various.

3. Have there been any previous signage studies or wayfinding plans; if so, when were they done? No.

4. Are there any existing University standards for interior signs? Limited for some buildings.

5. Will you require a complete interior message schedule? Please see revised RFQ statements. You list “proposed locations for various sign types” but don’t mention developing the sign messages. (page 4 item 3a)

6. Will we be reviewing all text on all exterior signs types or just certain sign types (such as directional signs)? (page 3 item 1b) Text.

7. Does “recommendations for text on external signs” mean general suggestions for improvement or a complete message schedule? (page 4 item 3a). General suggestions at this time.

8. How often will the stakeholder group be available to meet with us? A reasonable schedule will be mutually agreed upon after the UCHC has selected a firm.

9. May we assume that the client contact will set up staff interviews? Yes.

10. In order to meet the schedule, may we assume that staff will be available to meet with us promptly? Yes.

11. What will be the approximate size of the stakeholder group? It is anticipated that the group would be approximately 8-10 people from various department at UCHC. Has it already begun to meet? No.

12. You state that completion of the “entire project” will be in the winter of 2008. Does the “entire project” include design and documentation, or does it also include some fabrication/installation? Please see revised RFQ statements. By winter of 2008 do you mean December 2008? Yes, but please feel free to include a proposed schedule in your response to the RFQ.

13. What is the budget for this project? N/A Is funding in place? N/A

14. Is there a budget for the fabrication/installation? N/AIs funding in place for that? N/A

15. Will there be an opportunity to further discuss the scope by firms that have been short-listed?

    Yes, during the interview process.

[back to Legal Notices/RFQ]