Glossary term
Source Selection
The formal process by which an agency evaluates proposals and chooses an awardee.
In a formal source selection, a Source Selection Evaluation Board (SSEB) evaluates proposals against the Section M factors and documents strengths, weaknesses, deficiencies, and risks. The Source Selection Authority (SSA) makes the final decision, documented in a Source Selection Decision Document. Evaluators can only credit what is written in the proposal — anything they have to infer is a weakness waiting to happen.
Categories
- evaluation
Related terms
- Section MThe "Evaluation Factors for Award" section of an RFP that specifies how proposals will be scored.
- Best Value TradeoffA source selection process permitting award to other than the lowest-priced offeror when superior non-price factors justify the premium.
- Competitive RangeThe set of proposals judged to have a real chance of award, with which the government may conduct discussions.