52.216-27
Single or Multiple Awards
The Government reserves the right to make either a single or multiple awards for delivery or task order contracts under a solicitation, so contractors should not assume exclusivity.
Overview
FAR 52.216-27, "Single or Multiple Awards," informs offerors that the Government reserves the right to make either a single award or multiple awards for delivery order or task order contracts under a given solicitation. This provision is included in solicitations as directed by FAR 16.506(f) and applies to acquisitions where the Government may need flexibility in sourcing supplies or services from one or more contractors. The intent is to maximize competition and ensure the Government can meet its needs efficiently, either through a single contractor or by spreading requirements among several contractors.
Key Rules
- Government Award Flexibility
- The Government may choose to make a single award or multiple awards for delivery or task order contracts for the same or similar supplies or services.
- Provision Inclusion
- This provision must be included in solicitations as prescribed by FAR 16.506(f), signaling to offerors the potential for multiple contract awards.
Responsibilities
- Contracting Officers: Must include this provision in applicable solicitations and communicate the Government's right to make single or multiple awards.
- Contractors: Should prepare proposals with the understanding that awards may be made to one or several sources.
- Agencies: Ensure compliance with FAR 16.506(f) and maintain transparency in the award process.
Practical Implications
- This provision exists to provide the Government with flexibility in contract awards, promoting competition and ensuring best value.
- Contractors should be aware that they may not be the sole awardee, even if their proposal is strong.
- Misunderstanding this provision can lead to incorrect assumptions about exclusivity or contract volume.