Source Selection for CALS

A key process for creating a Solicitation (i.e. Request for Proposal [RFP] or Request for Quote [RFQ]) is the data call. This process identifies and develops specific NATO/NATO nations requirements for data (Contract Data Requirements List [CDRL]).

CALS related issues are made manifest during the data call via the NATO/NATO nations Concept of Operation (NCoO) questionnaire responses. Only then can CALS be taken beyond a strategy to become a value added reality. CALS must continue to be emphasized during the contract development phase, as incentives for CALS are incorporated into both the draft contract and the Source Selection Plan, to guide the follow-on proposal evaluation phase.

Source Selection for CALS

The following elements aid in CALS-presence throughout source selection:

• Ensure that technical requirements facilitate CALS utilization;
• Encourage industry identification of CALS alternatives;
• Provide positive incentives in Evaluation Criteria section;
• Make CALS an explicit element of Source Selection Plan;
• Provide/ensure CALS awareness of Source Selection Evaluation Board.