Presolicitation workshops are held to inform interested suppliers about an upcoming purchase opportunity and to generate industry input for the RFP. These workshops help establish early and open dialogue with prospective suppliers to ensure their understanding of the Postal Service’s needs and obtain recommendations for solutions.
The contracting officer prepares the agenda and assigns responsibilities for the presolicitation workshop; all pertinent information related to the activity associated with the proposed need or project should be addressed. During a workshop, suppliers have the opportunity to provide comments on the proposed RFP, and should also be provided the opportunity to make written comments before or after the workshop.
To attract and retain quality suppliers, develop true strategic relationships, and spur communication of innovative solutions without the fear of suppliers’ capabilities and ideas becoming known to competitors, the Postal Service will protect proprietary business information to the extent required by law and good business practice. The contracting officer analyzes suppliers’ verbal and written inputs for incorporation into the relevant portions of the RFP.
