What should NOT happen during the evaluation of proposals?

During the evaluation of proposals, it is crucial to maintain a thorough and transparent assessment process. Excluding discussions on compliance issues would undermine the integrity of the evaluation. Reviewers need to thoroughly discuss and consider compliance aspects because these factors determine whether a proposal meets the mandatory requirements outlined in the solicitation. Engaging with compliance issues ensures that all proposals are evaluated on a level playing field, fostering fair competition and adhering to federal procurement regulations.

Ensuring compliance is a critical step in safeguarding the procurement process, as it helps to identify which proposals qualify for further consideration based on their alignment with the solicitation's specifications. Proper discussions regarding compliance issues also contribute to a more robust evaluation process that can withstand scrutiny and demonstrates accountability. Maintaining transparency in scoring, assessing compliance, and using scoring methods that remain confidential are all valid practices. Excluding discussions about compliance, however, diminishes the evaluation's reliability and could lead to improperly awarded contracts.