SSAC (Source Selection Advisory Council)

What is SSAC (Source Selection Advisory Council)?

The Source Selection Advisory Council (SSAC) is a crucial component of the source selection process in government contracting. It is a team assembled to evaluate proposals received in response to a solicitation, providing a well-informed recommendation to the Source Selection Authority (SSA).

Definition

The SSAC plays a pivotal role in ensuring a fair and objective evaluation of proposals. It's typically composed of individuals with diverse expertise relevant to the procurement, including technical specialists, contracting officers, legal counsel, and subject matter experts. The SSAC's function is governed by regulations outlined in the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) and agency-specific supplements. They meticulously assess each proposal against the evaluation criteria specified in the solicitation. This assessment results in a comparative analysis presented to the SSA, who then makes the final decision. The SSAC's input is invaluable, as it helps the SSA select the offeror whose proposal represents the best value to the government.

Key Points

• Advisory Role: The SSAC provides recommendations, but the Source Selection Authority makes the final decision.
• Objectivity: The SSAC is responsible for conducting an unbiased evaluation based on pre-defined criteria.
• Documentation: The SSAC meticulously documents its findings and rationale for each evaluation, providing a clear audit trail.
• Expertise: The SSAC leverages the diverse knowledge and experience of its members to provide a comprehensive assessment.

Practical Examples

1. Complex IT System: In procuring a complex IT system, the SSAC would include IT architects, cybersecurity experts, and program managers to evaluate technical feasibility, security compliance, and implementation plans.
2. Construction Project: For a construction project, the SSAC might consist of engineers, architects, and cost estimators to assess design quality, structural integrity, and cost reasonableness.
3. Research & Development Contract: When awarding a research and development contract, the SSAC might have scientists, researchers, and industry experts evaluating the technical approach, innovation, and potential impact of the proposed research.