What is the first step of the two-step bidding process?

The initial step in the two-step bidding process focuses on obtaining and evaluating technical proposals from bidders. This step is crucial because it allows the contracting agency to assess the qualifications, experience, and capability of the contractors to perform the required services before moving on to the pricing component. By prioritizing the technical analysis, the agency ensures that only those contractors who meet the necessary technical criteria advance to the financial proposal phase.

After this assessment, only those bidders who demonstrate the required technical proficiency will proceed to submit their financial proposals. This two-step process allows for a more thorough evaluation and helps safeguard against selecting a contractor based solely on price without an adequate understanding of their technical abilities. Understanding this structure is essential for managing contracts effectively in federal procurement.