Certain types of information exchange may be desirable at different points after the release of the RFP document. The following table summarizes the types of communications that will be discussed in this subpart. These communication methods are optional.
| Type of information exchange | When | Purpose | Parties involved |
|---|---|---|---|
| (a) Clarifications | After receipt of proposals | Used when award without discussions is contemplated. Used to clarify certain aspects of a proposal (resolve minor errors, clerical errors, obtain additional past performance information, etc.) | Any offeror whose proposal is not clear to the contracting agency. |
| (b) Communications | After receipt of proposals, prior to the establishment of the competitive range | Used to address issues which might prevent a proposal from being placed in the competitive range | Only those offerors whose exclusion from, or inclusion in, the competitive range is uncertain. All offerors whose past performance information is the determining factor preventing them from being placed in the competitive range. |
| (c) Discussions (see Subpart E of this part) | After receipt of proposals and after the determination of the competitive range | Enhance contracting agency understanding of proposals and offerors understanding of scope of work. Facilitate the evaluation process | Must be held with all offerors in the competitive range. |