After the establishment of the competitive range, discussions can take place. True or False?

Once the competitive range is established, it indicates that the contracting organization has identified which proposals are considered competitive based on evaluation criteria. This is a critical phase in the procurement process that allows for further engagement with offerors whose proposals have the potential to meet the needs of the contracting agency.

Discussions at this stage are important because they enable clarification of proposal elements, negotiation of terms, and the potential for improving proposals to ensure that the best value is obtained. The ability to conduct discussions is a standard practice after forming the competitive range, ensuring that any necessary adjustments can be made before final selection. Therefore, stating that discussions can take place after establishing the competitive range is indeed true.

This practice is foundational in competitive procurement processes, ensuring that both the contracting agency and the offerors benefit through enhanced clarity and the opportunity for improvements.