Agency points of contact
Agencies must provide clear points of contact and essential guidance for unsolicited proposals, but only the contracting officer can bind the Government.
Overview
FAR 15.604 outlines the requirements for agencies to provide clear points of contact and essential information to potential offerors of unsolicited proposals. The regulation encourages preliminary contact with agency personnel before submitting detailed proposals or proprietary information, which can save time and effort for both parties. Agencies are required to make available information on what constitutes an acceptable unsolicited proposal, contractor responsibility requirements, conflict of interest policies, submission guidance, relevant points of contact, sources of agency objectives, submission/evaluation procedures, and proprietary information marking instructions. Only the designated contracting officer is authorized to bind the Government in matters related to unsolicited proposals.
Key Rules
- Agency Information Availability
- Agencies must provide potential offerors with specific information regarding unsolicited proposals, including definitions, requirements, submission guidance, and evaluation procedures.
- Preliminary Contact Encouraged
- Offerors are encouraged to contact agency personnel before submitting detailed or proprietary information to ensure alignment and efficiency.
- Authority to Bind Government
- Only the cognizant contracting officer can legally commit the Government regarding unsolicited proposals.
Responsibilities
- Contracting Officers: Ensure all required information is available to potential offerors and maintain sole authority to bind the Government.
- Contractors: Review agency-provided information, follow submission procedures, and properly mark proprietary information.
- Agencies: Maintain up-to-date points of contact and guidance for unsolicited proposals.
Practical Implications
- This section exists to streamline the unsolicited proposal process, reduce wasted effort, and protect proprietary information. Contractors must ensure they engage with the correct agency contacts and follow all guidance to avoid delays or miscommunication. Common pitfalls include submitting proposals without preliminary contact or failing to properly mark proprietary information.