The FAR part 36.6 uses the phrase "at least three" when referring to the selection criteria and evaluation board reviews "of the most highly qualified firms". Is it possible to use the A&E process when less than three firms are qualified?

By joel hoffman on Monday, February 11, 2002 - 10:39 am:

Yes, it is possible. The A-E selection method in FAR Part 36.6 is mandatory. The intent is for the Government to include at least three firms when there are three or more highly qualified firms available and interested in a contract. If there are only two highly qualified firms, then you should contact both.

Unless this is a highly unique requirement, I doubt that there would be less than three highly qualified firms available. Perhaps, for some reason, few firms expressed interest in your requirement? happy sails! joel hoffman.