Sec.4d-3-16. Proposal discussions with individual proposers

(a) Discussions may be held to:

(1) promote understanding of the state's requirements and the content of the proposals;

(2) determine in greater detail the proposer's qualifications;

(3) explore with the proposer the scope and nature of the required services, the proposer's proposed method of performance, and the relative utility of alternate methods of approach; and,

(4) facilitate arriving at a contract that will be most advantageous to the state taking into consideration price and the other evaluation factors set forth in the request for proposals.

(b) If during discussions there is a need for any substantial or substantive clarification of or change in the request for proposals, the request for proposals shall be amended to incorporate such clarification or change. Any clarification of a proposal shall be reduced to writing by the proposer.

(c) If the department requires best and final proposals, then the CIO shall establish a date and time for submission. The best and final proposals shall be submitted only once; provided however, the CIO may make a written determination that it is in the state's best interest to conduct additional discussions or change the state's requirements and require another submission of the best and final proposals.

(Adopted effective August 9, 2004)