Best and Final Offer(BAFO)
The last proposal revision opportunity provided to offerors in a negotiated procurement after discussions with the government.
Overview
The Best and Final Offer (BAFO) is the final proposal revision submitted by offerors in a negotiated procurement after the government conducts discussions. While the FAR now uses the term "Final Proposal Revisions" (FPR), BAFO remains widely used in the industry. This is the contractor's last chance to refine pricing, technical approach, and other proposal elements before the government makes its award decision.
Why It Matters in GovCon
BAFOs represent a critical inflection point in competitive procurements. The feedback received during discussions indicates areas where the government sees weaknesses or concerns. Contractors who effectively address these areas in their BAFO significantly improve their chances of winning. Missing the BAFO deadline or failing to adequately respond to discussion points can eliminate an otherwise strong competitor.
Key Details
- Terminology: FAR Part 15 now refers to "Final Proposal Revisions" rather than BAFO, though BAFO is still commonly used.
- Timing: Issued after the government completes discussions with offerors in the competitive range.
- Scope: Offerors may revise any aspect of their proposal, not just areas discussed.
- Deadline: Strict submission deadlines apply; late BAFOs are typically not accepted.
- One Round: Generally only one round of BAFOs is requested, though agencies can request additional rounds.
Related Terms
- Request for Proposal (RFP)
- Competitive Range
- Source Selection
- Final Proposal Revision (FPR)
- Discussions
More Solicitations Terms
A procurement approach where the government selects the offer that provides the greatest overall benefit, considering factors beyond just price.
The group of offerors selected by the government as having a reasonable chance of being awarded the contract, based on initial proposal evaluations.
A solicitation method where the government awards a contract to the lowest-priced responsive, responsible bidder through sealed bidding.
A source selection method where the contract is awarded to the lowest-priced offeror whose proposal meets all technical requirements.
A document that describes required contract outcomes and performance standards rather than prescribing how the work should be done.
A pre-solicitation document where the government seeks industry input on requirements, capabilities, and market conditions before issuing a formal solicitation.
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