Tim,

 

When I was working the UC Lawrence Berkeley National Lab (DOE Lab Contractor), we typically had one firm or company that specialized in the activity that we needed and the PI already knew exactly what people in that area could offer.  They had often done the review or research into the area needed (such as setting up an interactive web site for specific medical responses:  The firm built the web site and the Dr. or scientist had the technical knowledge that would be put out on the web site).  We would often sole source because of the nature of the work or even the sensitivity.  It really was a case-by-case basis.

 

If you are referring to sub-awardees (other universities, etc.) then the research is the driving factor and the level of expertise that each particular PI brings to his area of research.  Thus, the sub-award is specific to the PI at that institution…… just as the award is specific to a PI at your institution that then needs agency approval to change to a new PI. 

 

 

I'm seeking help in addressing the concerns of  a new Procurement Director who wants to know why the subawards we issue from our prime awards are not put out for competitive bidding.  Yes, these are subcontractors that are named in the proposal. 

I've tried to impress upon him all of the obvious reasons why this isn't done and isn't practical.  He is citing the following from A-110.  Any help in countering his arguments are appreciated.

43 Competition. All procurement transactions shall be conducted in a manner to provide, to the maximum extent practical, open and free competition. The recipient shall be alert to organizational conflicts of interest as well as noncompetitive practices among contractors that may restrict or eliminate competition or otherwise restrain trade. In order to ensure objective contractor performance and eliminate unfair competitive advantage, contractors that develop or draft specifications, requirements, statements of work, invitations for bids and/or requests for proposals shall be excluded from competing for such procurements. Awards shall be made to the bidder or offeror whose bid or offer is responsive to the solicitation and is most advantageous to the recipient, price, quality and other factors considered. Solicitations shall clearly set forth all requirements that the bidder or offeror shall fulfill in order for the bid or offer to be evaluated by the recipient. Any and all bids or offers may be rejected when it is in the recipient's interest to do so.