Source Selection Processes and Techniques
FAR Subpart 15.1 provides the foundational rules for selecting contractors in negotiated procurements, emphasizing best value and flexible evaluation techniques.
Overview
FAR Subpart 15.1 outlines the foundational processes and techniques for source selection in negotiated procurements. It establishes the framework for how agencies evaluate proposals and select contractors, emphasizing the importance of achieving best value for the government. The subpart introduces the concept of the best value continuum, which allows agencies to balance price and non-price factors according to the needs of each acquisition. It also addresses the use of oral presentations as a technique to streamline evaluations and enhance communication between offerors and the government. This subpart serves as a guide for contracting professionals to structure their source selection approach, ensuring transparency, fairness, and efficiency in the procurement process.
Key Rules
- Scope of Subpart (15.100)
- Defines the applicability of source selection processes and techniques for negotiated contracts.
- Best Value Continuum (15.101)
- Explains the range of source selection approaches, from lowest price technically acceptable (LPTA) to tradeoff processes, allowing agencies to tailor evaluations to acquisition objectives.
- Oral Presentations (15.102)
- Permits and encourages the use of oral presentations as part of the proposal evaluation process to clarify and assess offeror capabilities.
Responsibilities
- Contracting Officers: Must select and document the appropriate source selection method, ensure compliance with best value principles, and facilitate oral presentations when used.
- Contractors: Should prepare to address both price and non-price factors and be ready to participate in oral presentations if required.
- Agencies: Oversee the integrity of the source selection process and ensure evaluations are conducted fairly and in accordance with FAR guidance.
Practical Implications
- This subpart exists to provide flexibility and structure in selecting contractors for negotiated procurements.
- It impacts daily contracting by guiding how proposals are evaluated and how best value is determined.
- Common pitfalls include failing to document the rationale for source selection decisions or not properly balancing price and technical factors.