Agency Office of Higher Education

Contractor All Aboard tours

SWIFT Contract Number 238070

Project Name College National Tours to Students

Project Number (if applicable) {Empty}

Summarize purpose of the contract, including why it was necessary: provide college national tour services to our partner students to support our Get Ready schools

Project Duration

Start Date Wed, 10/25/2023 - 00:00

Original end date Sun, 06/30/2024 - 00:00

Actual end date Sun, 06/30/2024 - 00:00

Did project finish on time? Yes

Total billable hours utilized (if applicable) {Empty}

Contract Amounts

Original contract: $130000

Amendments $0

Contract total $130000

Did project finish within budget? Yes

What was the funding source? federal

Is this a sole source contract? No

If this was a single source contract, explain why the agency determined there was only a single source for the services (if applicable) {Empty}

Evaluator Name Ciara Houston

Evaluator Email Address ciara.houston@state.mn.us

Evaluate the contractor's timeliness The contractor's timeliness was a mixed experience. While they made efforts to finalize arrangements, including transportation, accommodations, and itineraries, there were instances where their timeline needed to align with our organization's needs. Critical details were only provided when requested, leading to confusion and last-minute adjustments. As a result, several aspects of the trip were determined at departure periods. While the contractor met some deadlines, better communication and alignment with our schedule would have improved the experience.

Evaluate the contractor's quality Commendable. The accommodations were clean and comfortable, and the transportation was reliable and safe. The educational experiences at the HBCU schools were enriching, featuring knowledgeable guides and well-organized tours that effectively engaged the students. However, more efforts could have been made to integrate the local culture of the schools into the trip.

Evaluate the contractor's cost The contractor offered competitive trip pricing, including transportation, lodging, meals, and educational activities, all within our budget. However, the final bill and pricing structure were not transparent.

Evaluate the contractor's overall performance The contractor performed satisfactorily. While sometimes slow, they were responsive to inquiries. However, communication could have been more transparent and consistent. Preparation and adaptability to unexpected situations could have significantly improved the student's experience.

Would you engage the contractor's services again? No

Describe any negative action taken during the duration of this contract (i.e., termination, pursuit of suspension, etc.): We had to host a meeting and make subsequent phone calls to clear up invoicing discrepancies.

Please rate the overall experience with the contractor 2 - dissatisfied