15.505
Preaward debriefing of offerors
Offerors excluded from competition must request a preaward debriefing in writing within 3 days to receive feedback, but will not be given information about other offerors or proposals.
Overview
FAR 15.505 outlines the procedures and requirements for preaward debriefings of offerors excluded from the competitive range or otherwise eliminated from competition before contract award. Its purpose is to ensure transparency and provide unsuccessful offerors with timely, meaningful feedback on their exclusion, while protecting sensitive procurement information.
Key Rules
- Requesting a Preaward Debriefing
- Offerors must submit a written request for a preaward debriefing within 3 days of receiving notice of exclusion. Debriefings may be delayed until after award at the offeror’s request, but only one debriefing is allowed per proposal.
- Timing and Conduct of Debriefings
- Contracting officers must make every effort to provide debriefings promptly, but may delay or refuse them for compelling reasons, documenting the rationale. Debriefings can be conducted orally, in writing, or by other acceptable means, and should be chaired by the contracting officer.
- Debriefing Content and Limitations
- Preaward debriefings must include the agency’s evaluation of significant proposal elements, the rationale for elimination, and responses to relevant questions about the process. They must not disclose information about other offerors or prohibited information per FAR 15.506(e).
- Documentation
- An official summary of the debriefing must be included in the contract file.
Responsibilities
- Contracting Officers: Must provide timely debriefings, document any delays, ensure proper content, and maintain records.
- Contractors: Must request debriefings in writing within 3 days and understand the limits of information provided.
- Agencies: Must ensure debriefings are conducted in accordance with regulations and protect sensitive information.
Practical Implications
- This section promotes fairness and transparency in the procurement process, helping offerors understand why they were excluded and improving future proposals. Missing the 3-day request window forfeits the right to a debriefing. Contractors should be aware that protests may be affected by the timing of debriefings, and that sensitive information about competitors will not be disclosed.