52.207-1
Notice of Standard Competition
FAR 52.207-1 requires solicitations under standard competitions to notify offerors of the A-76 process, ensuring transparency and outlining evaluation and contest procedures.
Overview
- FAR 52.207-1, Notice of Standard Competition, is a solicitation provision required when a procurement is part of a standard competition under OMB Circular A-76. Its purpose is to inform offerors that the government is evaluating whether to perform specified work in-house or contract it out, following the competitive procedures outlined in the Circular.
Key Rules
- Standard Competition Notification
- The solicitation must state that it is part of a standard competition under OMB Circular A-76 to determine if work will be performed by the government or a contractor.
- Evaluation Process
- The government will evaluate private sector offers, the agency tender (government's in-house proposal), and public reimbursable tenders per the solicitation and the Circular.
- Performance Decision and Announcement
- The outcome of the competition will be publicly announced. If a private sector offer wins, a contract is awarded; if the agency or public reimbursable tender wins, a letter of obligation or fee-for-service agreement is established.
- Contest Procedures
- Directly interested parties may file contests regarding the competition outcome, following FAR 33.103 procedures. Access to certain documents is restricted to legal agents during contest periods.
Responsibilities
- Contracting Officers: Must include this provision in applicable solicitations, manage the competition process, and ensure compliance with contest and announcement requirements.
- Contractors: Should understand the competition process, evaluation criteria, and contest rights.
- Agencies: Must follow OMB Circular A-76 and FAR 33.103 for competitions and contests.
Practical Implications
- This provision ensures transparency and fairness in deciding whether work is performed by government personnel or contractors. Contractors should be aware of the unique evaluation and contest procedures. Common pitfalls include misunderstanding the competition process or missing contest deadlines.