Describes how the government will evaluate and compare proposals.
Applicability: Required in all negotiated procurement RFPs.
Key Requirements
Understand relative importance of evaluation factors
Know whether price is a major or minor factor
Understand tradeoff evaluation authority (best value)
Recognize that acceptability is determined before price comparison
Common Issues & Pitfalls
Assuming price is always the primary factor when it's not
Overweighting technical approach when management/team is heavily weighted
Not understanding that proposals must be acceptable before price is evaluated
Missing the fact that some factors are pass/fail thresholds
Contractor Guidance for Your Bid
Every RFP evaluates proposals differently. Read the evaluation factors section (Section M) carefully: which factors are equally weighted? Which are weighted higher? Is there a technical minimum threshold before price is evaluated? Design your entire proposal strategy around these factors. A proposal that overemphasizes the wrong factor wastes opportunity.
Related FAR Clauses
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key requirements for FAR 52.215-2: Evaluation of Proposals?
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Describes how the government will evaluate and compare proposals. Required in all negotiated procurement RFPs.
When does FAR 52.215-2 apply to a federal contract?
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Required in all negotiated procurement RFPs.
What are the most common compliance issues with FAR 52.215-2?
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Assuming price is always the primary factor when it's not Overweighting technical approach when management/team is heavily weighted Not understanding that proposals must be acceptable before price is evaluated Missing the fact that some factors are pass/fail thresholds
How should contractors approach FAR 52.215-2 in their proposals?
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Every RFP evaluates proposals differently. Read the evaluation factors section (Section M) carefully: which factors are equally weighted? Which are weighted higher? Is there a technical minimum threshold before price is evaluated? Design your entire proposal strategy around these factors. A proposal that overemphasizes the wrong factor wastes opportunity.
What related FAR clauses should contractors review alongside FAR 52.215-2?
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Contractors reviewing FAR 52.215-2 should also study related clauses: 52-215-1, 52-215-3. Understanding how these clauses interact helps avoid compliance gaps that can trigger contract disputes or disqualify bids.
What happens if a contractor fails to comply with FAR 52.215-2?
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Non-compliance with FAR 52.215-2 can result in contract termination for default, withholding of payments, debarment proceedings, or False Claims Act liability. Contracting officers typically issue a cure notice before termination. Contractors should consult with a contract attorney if they receive a cure notice related to this clause.