Generally, unless an exception applies, what must Contracting Officers promote when awarding Government contracts?

The requirement for Contracting Officers to promote full and open competition when awarding Government contracts stems from the principle of ensuring that the procurement process is fair, transparent, and open to all qualified bidders. This principle is rooted in the belief that competition leads to better value for the Government and reduces the potential for favoritism or unfair advantages to specific contractors.

Full and open competition means that all interested contractors have the opportunity to submit proposals, and this process encourages innovation, drives down costs, and enhances the quality of the products or services procured. By soliciting a wide range of bids, Contracting Officers are more likely to select a contractor that offers the best terms and conditions, ultimately benefiting the Government and taxpayers.

Exceptions to this requirement may exist in situations where specific needs can only be met by a particular source, but these are limited and governed by strict guidelines. In contrast, promoting limited competition, direct awards, or reliance on cost-plus contracts does not align with the overarching goal of maximizing competition and ensuring that procurement processes are as equitable as possible.