52.201-1
Acquisition 360: Voluntary Survey
FAR 52.201-1 provides a voluntary, anonymous way for offerors to give feedback on acquisition processes without impacting award decisions or creating protest rights.
Overview
FAR 52.201-1, "Acquisition 360: Voluntary Survey," encourages all actual and potential offerors to provide feedback on the preaward and debriefing processes for a specific acquisition. The provision establishes a voluntary, anonymous survey (unless the participant chooses to self-identify) that can be completed within 45 days after contract award. The feedback is intended to help agencies improve their acquisition processes, but it is not reviewed by the Contracting Officer until after award and is not considered in the award decision. Participation in the survey does not grant any legal rights, protections, or grounds for protest.
Key Rules
- Voluntary Feedback Opportunity
- Offerors are encouraged, but not required, to provide feedback on preaward and debriefing processes via an online survey.
- Survey Timing and Anonymity
- Feedback may be submitted up to 45 days after award and is anonymous unless the participant chooses to self-identify.
- No Impact on Award Decisions
- The Contracting Officer will not review survey responses until after award, and the feedback will not affect the award decision.
- No Legal Protections
- Participation in the survey does not create any rights, protections, or protest grounds for offerors.
Responsibilities
- Contracting Officers: Must include this provision as prescribed and ensure survey responses are not reviewed until after award.
- Contractors/Offerors: May voluntarily complete the survey to provide feedback; no obligation to participate.
- Agencies: Use feedback to improve acquisition processes, but must not use it in award decisions.
Practical Implications
- This provision exists to gather constructive feedback for process improvement without influencing contract outcomes.
- It provides a safe, anonymous channel for offerors to share their experiences.
- Contractors should understand that participation is optional and does not affect their standing or rights in the procurement process.