Best value in source selection is achieved by considering the requirement and which set of factors?

• A. Price and past performance only
• B. Price and other evaluation factors
• C. Price alone
• D. Only non-price factors

Answer: (B)

Best value in source selection comes from evaluating offers against the requirement using both price and other evaluation factors identified in the solicitation. Price is important, but it isn’t the only consideration. Non-price factors—such as technical merit, past performance, delivery schedule, and service capability—often drive the overall value, and the solicitation will specify how these factors are weighed relative to price. An offer with a higher price can still be selected if its overall value, including the non-price factors, meets the requirement better than lower-priced options. If you only looked at price or only at non-price factors, you’d miss the balance that defines best value.