What is the basis for the award decision in source selection?

• A. Evaluation factors and significant subfactors tailored to the acquisition
• B. Past performance alone determines the award
• C. Price is the sole determinant of the award
• D. The contracting officer's personal preference

Answer: (A)

The award decision in source selection is based on how proposals measure up against the evaluation criteria that were tailored to the acquisition. These criteria, including the major factors and the significant subfactors, are defined in the RFP and the Source Selection Plan and are used to assess merit, risk, and overall value. Price is considered as part of the overall balance, but it is not the sole determinant; non-price factors like technical merit, past performance, and management approach influence the outcome through a best-value tradeoff. The government relies on documented evaluations and tradeoffs rather than personal preference, ensuring the decision reflects the stated criteria and the relative merit of each proposal.