What FAR part addresses the use of non-Federal sources?

The correct answer is Part 15.404 of the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR), which specifically addresses the use of non-Federal sources by laying down the principles for cost analysis and price evaluation in the context of competitive acquisitions. This part discusses how to determine fair and reasonable pricing when obtaining goods and services, particularly in dealings where non-Federal entities are involved.

Part 15 is focused on contracting by negotiation, which includes provisions for considering non-Federal sources as part of market research and pricing strategy. Understanding this part ensures that contracting officers make informed decisions about cost proposals and can effectively evaluate pricing submissions to ensure value for the government.

Other parts do not specifically concentrate on non-Federal sources in the same way. Part 42 primarily deals with contract administration and audit policies rather than the evaluation of pricing. Part 19 focuses on small business programs, which is unrelated to the broader topic of non-Federal sources. Part 6 discusses competition requirements, particularly in terms of when sole-source contracts may be justified, but it doesn't directly relate to evaluation processes for pricing submitted from non-Federal sources.