6.2  Communications

Communications are exchanges between the government and offerors, after receipt of proposals, leading to the establishment of a competitive range (see FAR 15.306(b) for guidance).  Communications must be held with any offeror who will be excluded from the competitive range because of their adverse past performance information, unless offeror has previously had the opportunity to comment on such information.  Otherwise, communications may only be held with those offerors who are neither clearly in nor clearly out of the competitive range.  If it is clear an offeror will be included in the competitive range, then wait until opening discussions to address any concerns.  When holding communications, ask only those questions necessary to understand the proposal and make the competitive range determination.  Information obtained during communications may not be used to revise a proposal, correct any deficiencies or material omissions, or change any technical or cost elements of a proposal, except for correction of mistakes.  Once you have enough information to decide if the proposal should be included or excluded from the competitive range, then STOP.  Never accept a revision before opening discussions.