What rights do offerors have regarding debriefings?

• A. They may request a postaward debriefing to learn why they were not selected and how they compare to the selected offeror.
• B. Debriefings are mandatory for all.
• C. Debriefings reveal all competitors' prices.
• D. Debriefings are only available after protest.

Answer: (B)

Offerors have the right to a postaward debriefing when they are not selected in a competitive process. Debriefings are not mandatory for every procurement; they are provided upon request and within a reasonable time after award. In a debriefing, the agency explains the evaluation factors used, the ranking of offerors, and the basis for the award decision, helping the offeror understand why their proposal was not selected and how it compared to the winning one. The debriefing will not disclose all competitors’ prices or sensitive information. Debriefings are available after award and before any protest as a means to address concerns. The view that debriefings are mandatory for all is not correct.