The CO will perform reference checks on supplier qualifications cited in a proposal submission when it is determined necessary by the CO to validate supplier past performance. Also, the CO may choose to perform reference checks on specific resumes submitted for a role or a responsibility outlined in the proposal when that role, and the relevant skills and experience needed for that role, is considered key to the successful performance of the contract. However, for other non-key personnel resumes, it is expected that the supplier will have conducted the appropriate reference checks.
RFP language will include instructions for the provision of the supplier’s previous project experience qualification, which should include the name and contact information of the associated contract holder. Reference checks should be conducted for those proposals being considered if the Postal Service does not have previous experience with the particular supplier or if additional information regarding the success and/or details of the project are of interest.
Similarly, the RFP will instruct the potential supplier to include resumes of those employees it plans to staff on the project, if awarded. Additional information may be requested from the supplier if resumes do not include sufficient information. If there is not language in the RFP enforcing the guarantee of participation of all candidates proposed for a project, then resumes may also be solicited upon contract award if a candidate is replaced or added.
Reference checks performed during the Perform Preaward Activities task of USPS Supplying Practices Process Step 2: Evaluate Sources will provide additional familiarity with the supplier’s work history. Additional clearances/background checks may be required for some product or service providers. See Section 7-13, Supply Chain Security, for more information.
Performing a reference check involves:
