The SOO is a brief document incorporated into the RFP that describes the basic, high-level objectives of the purchase that potential suppliers are required to support. It is used in lieu of a formal SOW to provide potential suppliers the flexibility to develop cost-effective solutions and the opportunity to propose innovative alternatives to meet Postal Service objectives. Because of its nature, the SOO is often used in performance-based contracting, which emphasizes what will be performed as opposed to how it will be performed.
The SOO establishes the basic needs of the Postal Service, including performance, price, and quality. The language of the SOO must be streamlined to avoid “how to” direction while clearly stating all essential operational requirements. It may be broad and flexible with respect to deliverable material and certain procedures and specifications, to the extent that it protects client interests.
The SOO is the common basis for detailed responses submitted as a part of a proposal. The use of an SOO over an SOW should be strongly considered when appropriate, because the SOO provides the opportunity for the potential supplier to leverage its expertise in the determination of the best solution for meeting the client’s needs.
