35.007
Solicitations
FAR 35.007 ensures R&D solicitations are targeted to technically qualified sources and require detailed, evaluable proposals to promote efficient, competitive, and technically sound contract awards.
Overview
FAR 35.007 provides detailed guidance for the preparation and distribution of solicitations for research and development (R&D) contracts. Its primary goal is to ensure that solicitations are targeted to technically qualified sources, thereby reducing unnecessary costs and administrative burdens for both the government and industry. The regulation outlines criteria for identifying qualified sources, requirements for proposal content, and evaluation factors to ensure the selection of the most technically competent contractors. It also addresses the need for clear communication of requirements, the consideration of alternative contract types, and the handling of unsolicited proposals and exploratory requests.
Key Rules
- Targeted Distribution of Solicitations
- Solicitations should be sent only to sources technically qualified in the relevant scientific or technical field, based on performance, reputation, and capability.
- Solicitation Content and Proposal Requirements
- Solicitations must require offerors to detail their technical and management approach, identify uncertainties, and disclose planned subcontracting.
- Evaluation Factors
- Solicitations should include evaluation criteria such as technical understanding, approach, personnel competence, experience, novel ideas, and facility availability.
- Consideration of Cost and Management
- While technical competence is paramount, cost, management capability, and past performance must also be considered.
- Communication and Clarification
- Contracting officers should ensure offerors understand requirements and may hold preproposal conferences for complex efforts.
- Alternative Contract Types and Unsolicited Proposals
- Solicitations may allow alternative contract types and address unsolicited proposals or exploratory requests without obligating the government.
Responsibilities
- Contracting Officers: Identify and solicit only qualified sources, ensure clear solicitation requirements, consider all relevant evaluation factors, and facilitate communication with offerors.
- Contractors: Submit detailed, compliant proposals addressing all solicitation requirements, including technical approach and subcontracting plans.
- Agencies: Oversee fair and efficient solicitation and evaluation processes, and ensure compliance with FAR requirements.
Practical Implications
- This section helps prevent wasted resources by focusing solicitations on qualified sources and requiring comprehensive, evaluable proposals. It ensures that R&D contracts are awarded based on technical merit and capability, while maintaining competition and transparency. Common pitfalls include failing to properly vet sources, unclear solicitation requirements, or neglecting to consider all relevant evaluation factors.