What Are Pre-Award ?

Pre-award notices exist as a way for the federal government to request information from businesses during the acquisition process.  One aspect is market research, which is a vital component when the government is buying. By understanding the availability and affordability of resources, the government can define their needs with supporting rationale. Soliciting vendors for projects is another purpose of pre-award notices.  This is a uniform way to reach thousands of vendors to notify them that the government needs goods/services.

Pre-Award notices are governed by the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR). Not only does it dictate the process of awarding contracts, but how to gather information for market research as well. The government uses pre-award notices in both these areas to connect buyers with vendors and  determines the type of information being requested.

What Kind of Pre-Award Notices Are There?

Request for Information (RFI): Market research tool used to develop requirements and procurement strategies.  The information provided helps the government to understand various aspects of the industry like vendor capabilities, delivery expectations, and pricing.  RFIs are very useful for collecting data, developing procurement strategies, and may be used to develop an RFQ or RFP (see below).

Sources Sought Synopsis (Notice): Another market research tool used to determine the availability of potential contractors for an upcoming project/task.  Once strategies have been defined, the contracting agency now seeks to learn which companies can meet their requirements. Similar to an RFI, the data collected may be used to develop an RFQ or RFP.

Request for Quote (RFQ): Solicitation seeking quotes for a specified project.  The terms of the project are defined within the solicitation.  This utilizes a simplified acquisition process or seeks vendors from the GSA Schedule program. This is a direct result of previous market research and will lead to an acquisition

Request for Proposal (RFP): A formal solicitation for supplies or services above the simplified acquisition level. Interested vendors submit their proposed responses based on how they would best meet the needs of the agency and will also lead to an acquisition.

How to Find Pre-Award Notices?

Pre-award notices can be located within the System for Award Management at SAM.gov under contract opportunities.  The site is free to use and any company wanting to do business with the federal government must register here as well. Users can enter search terms and use filters to find the opportunity that is relevant to the offering. Each opportunity is identified with the type of pre-award notice and will contain the submission format. Respondents may also contact the owner of the opportunity for additional information or assistance.

What Are the Benefits of Responding to Pre-Award Notices?

There are many benefits for companies who take the time to respond to any of the requests listed. The ultimate benefit of course would be winning a contract and generating revenue.  However, there are other benefits like building relationships and gaining exposure in this vast world of government contracting. By replying to an RFI or Sources Sought, vendors can set the tone for an acquisition. Information provided about companies and their capabilities will be used to formulate the requirements set forth in RFQs and RFPs. Also, by responding to these requests, vendors can hone their skills and learn best practices for the future.

Remember that working with the government requires adhering to strict procedures and processes set forth in these notices.  Pre- award notices serve many functions and understanding the dynamic world of government contracting can be overwhelming. By knowing the difference between the various pre-award notices, one can begin to establish themselves as a contender in procurement opportunities.

Coley GCS has successfully assisted companies for 24 years with navigating the complex world of Federal contracting.  We constantly support clients and assist in identifying winning strategies to enter and succeed in that marketplace. Contact us today at hello@coleygsa.com, by phone 210-402-6766 or schedule a call at a time convenient for you.

If you’re a government contractor looking for business development resources, check out FedMap.us, the number one growth-focused online community for government contractors looking to Accelerate their Growth.