Seattle's App-Based Workers Research

The City of Seattle, through its Office of Labor Standards, is soliciting proposals for research on app-based workers under solicitation number 2025-059, with a response deadline of July 20, 2026. The project aims to conduct mixed-methods research to evaluate working conditions before and after the implementation of the App-Based Worker Minimum Payment Ordinance, using surveys, focus groups, interviews, and participant observation. The selected consultant must engage a diverse population of workers based on language, working hours, consistency, and service type, and must design the research to supplement existing OLS quantitative data. Proposals must be submitted through the City’s e-procurement portal, and registration is mandatory. All submissions must include a fully-loaded cost proposal not exceeding $130,000, which covers all direct, indirect, overhead, travel, and lodging expenses without contingency assumptions. The consultant is required to submit a completed Consultant Questionnaire, a WMBE Inclusion Plan, and proof of insurance with additional insured endorsement, and must hold a valid Washington State Unified Business Identifier and a City of Seattle Business License. The contract, awarded on a firm fixed price basis, has a performance period from October 1, 2026, to December 31, 2027, with monthly reimbursements over 14 months and additional payments tied to deliverables. Detailed requirements are outlined in four attachments: a timeline of research phases and engagement targets, expected worker subgroup numbers, a schedule of meetings with OLS, and final reporting and data transmission protocols. The consultant must incorporate continuous feedback from OLS throughout the research process and submit all final materials—including raw data, survey results, and interview transcripts—by November XX, 2027. Evaluation of proposals will be points-based, with experience and qualifications and proposed research design each weighted at 40 points, and interviews potentially adding 20 additional points. The City reserves the right to terminate the contract for cause, convenience, or beyond-control events, with a five-business-day notice required. All work is subject to audit and inspection within King County, and all materials created or received become public records under Washington State’s Public Records Act. Compliance with non-discrimination laws, including SMC Chapter 20.45 on equal benefits for domestic partners, and federal debarment requirements is mandatory, and the consultant must waive immunity to indemnify the City. Background checks may be required for personnel, and subcontracting