With regard to the more traditional private-sector market research, it is important to be knowledgeable about commercial offerings, capabilities, and practices before structuring the acquisition in any detail. This is one of the more significant changes brought about by acquisition reform.
Some of the traditional ways to do this include issuing "sources sought" type notices at FedBizOpps.gov, conducting "Industry Days," issuing Requests for Information, and holding pre-solicitation conferences. But it is also okay to simply pick up the phone and call private-sector company representatives. |
Contact with vendors and suppliers for purposes of market research is now encouraged. In fact, FAR 15.201(a) specifically promotes the exchange of information "among all interested parties, from the earliest identification of a requirement through receipt of proposals." The limitations that apply (once a procurement is underway) are that prospective contractors be treated fairly and impartially and that standards of procurement integrity (FAR 3.104) be maintained. But the real key is to begin market research before a procurement is underway. |
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