Evaluation
Unsolicited proposals must be evaluated using specific criteria and coordinated by the agency contact point to ensure fairness, consistency, and alignment with agency needs.
Overview
FAR 15.606-2 outlines the procedures for evaluating unsolicited proposals submitted to federal agencies. The regulation requires that comprehensive evaluations be coordinated by the designated agency contact point, who must ensure that each proposal is properly marked with the required legend for protection. Evaluators are instructed to assess proposals based on several key factors, including the uniqueness and merit of the approach, scientific or technical value, alignment with agency mission, offeror’s capabilities and experience, qualifications of key personnel, and the realism of proposed costs. Upon completion of the evaluation, evaluators must communicate their recommendations to the agency point of contact. This process ensures that unsolicited proposals are reviewed fairly, consistently, and in alignment with agency needs and federal requirements.
Key Rules
- Coordination and Marking
- The agency contact point must coordinate evaluations and ensure each proposal is marked with the legend required by FAR 15.609(d).
- Evaluation Factors
- Evaluators must consider innovation, technical merit, mission contribution, offeror capabilities, key personnel qualifications, and cost realism.
- Notification of Results
- Evaluators must notify the agency contact point of their recommendations after completing the evaluation.
Responsibilities
- Contracting Officers: Ensure proper coordination and compliance with evaluation procedures.
- Contractors: Submit proposals that address the evaluation factors and provide supporting documentation.
- Agencies: Oversee the evaluation process and ensure recommendations are properly communicated and documented.
Practical Implications
- This section ensures unsolicited proposals are evaluated objectively and consistently, protecting proprietary information and aligning with agency missions. Contractors should tailor proposals to address the listed evaluation factors. Common pitfalls include failing to address all factors or not providing sufficient detail on cost realism or personnel qualifications.