6.4  Discussions

Discussions are exchanges between the government and offerors in a competitive acquisition after establishment of the competitive range (see FAR 15.306(d) for guidance).  Discussions are the most detailed and extensive form of exchanges with offerors.  When it is determined that discussions are necessary the contracting officer must hold meaningful discussions with each offeror in the competitive range.  Discussions may include technical issues which affect technical acceptability, past performance issues, and/or cost/price issues.