Research Participant Recruiting

Questions & Answers / Clarifications

This document provides responses to vendor questions regarding a Request for Information (RFI) related to research participant recruiting services for the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

• Statistical Significance: BLS will determine research methods, including whether statistical significance or qualitative insights are required. The RFI primarily seeks information for small-scale qualitative research studies, not official statistics.
• Methodologies: BLS is open to alternative data collection methodologies but emphasizes collecting data from humans, not AI. Decisions on synchronous/asynchronous and in-person/virtual approaches will be study-specific.
• Participant Sourcing: Vendors should not expect BLS to provide existing lists or databases of participants. Independent sourcing is expected.
• Interagency Coordination: BLS coordinates with other federal agencies within policy and privacy limitations, but generally seeks participants for its own studies.
• Contract Type: BLS anticipates a performance-based acquisition but has not determined the specific contract type.
• Timeline: This is a new requirement. If an award is made, it is anticipated in FY26.
• NAICS Codes: The government requests NAICS codes for projects cited in response to the RFI.
• Roles & Responsibilities: BLS welcomes feedback on the proposed delineation of company and government responsibilities.
• Incumbent: This is a new requirement; there is no incumbent.
• Period of Performance: BLS contracts typically have a one-year base period with four option years.
• Study Durations for Pricing: Specific durations for example projects are provided for pricing considerations (e.g., 4 weeks for online interviews, 6 weeks for online interviews, 1 week for focus groups, 2 weeks for in-person interviews).
• Participant Recruitment Sources: Existing online research panels are acceptable, provided eligibility is confirmed.
• Location of In-Person Sessions: While Washington, DC is mentioned, other locations can be considered for in-person activities, with BLS determining the final location per study. For Example Project C, assume outside the DC metro area. For Example Project D, assume a suburban public library.
• Geographic Scope for Recruitment Data: Offerors should limit reported recruitment efforts to qualitative studies within the U.S. and its territories.

These clarifications provide essential details for vendors to understand the scope, methodology, participant sourcing expectations, and contract parameters, influencing how they prepare their responses and proposals.

Request for Information (RFI) / Sources Sought Notice

This RFI seeks information from potential vendors regarding solutions for recruiting research participants for the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Office of Survey Methods Research (OSMR). The goal is to identify vendors capable of finding, verifying eligibility, and scheduling participants for small-scale research studies. This is not a solicitation for proposals, and no contract will be awarded based on this RFI. Information provided will help DOL determine the best approach for future acquisition.

Vendors are expected to provide strategies and plans for:

• Identifying and recruiting potential research participants based on specific eligibility criteria.
• Screening and verifying participant eligibility.
• Scheduling participants and sending appointment reminders.
• Providing participants with necessary study information.
• Conducting technical checks for virtual appointments.
• Ensuring the required number of participants complete the study, managing no-shows.
• Remunerating participants upon successful completion.
• Providing status updates and reports.
• Handling participant information in accordance with BLS privacy and confidentiality policies.

The BLS will define research objectives, set eligibility criteria, determine participant numbers, obtain OMB approval, approve recruiting strategies, conduct the research, obtain informed consent, and analyze data.

Respondents should provide:

• Company description, capabilities, and approach.
• Historical information on providing similar services.
• Business type and small business certifications.
• Confirmation of ability to provide the full scope of requirements.
• Identification of any requirements that unnecessarily increase costs.
• Suggested roles and responsibilities for company and government.
• Potential risks and issues impacting performance or cost.
• Specific details on participant verification, fee structures, and sample pricing for example projects.
• Information on 2025 recruiting efforts, including total participants, study types, modes, and strategies for hard-to-reach groups.

Responses are due by 12:00 PM EST on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, via email. Questions are due by 12:00 PM EST on March 18, 2026.

Based on responses, the requirement may be set-aside for small businesses or procured through full and open competition. Multiple awards may be made.