What does "competitive range" refer to in the context of FAR?

In the context of the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR), "competitive range" specifically refers to the range of proposals that have a reasonable chance of being selected for award. This determination is crucial during the evaluation process, as it allows an agency to focus on proposals that meet the evaluation criteria and are competitively viable.

The establishment of a competitive range is based on various factors, including the technical merit of the proposals, cost considerations, and the overall compliance with the solicitation requirements. Proposals that fall within this range are deemed to have a realistic possibility of being awarded the contract, and only those proposals may be included in subsequent discussions or negotiations.

Understanding the concept of competitive range is important for contractors as it helps them realize that not all submitted proposals will be considered equal and that only those deemed competitive will advance in the acquisition process. This can lead to opportunities for further engagement with the agency, including the chance to revise and improve their proposals based on feedback received.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately capture the definition of competitive range within FAR. For example, the range of proposals that receive funding is not limited to those deemed competitive and is a broader concept. The idea of geographical location does not relate to the evaluation of proposals, and the period