Which contract method employs competitive bids, public openings of bids, and award?

The contract method that employs competitive bids, public openings of bids, and award is established under FAR Part 14, which pertains to Sealed Bidding. This method is designed to ensure a transparent procurement process where all interested bidders can participate on an equal basis.

In a sealed bidding process, the solicitation is issued, and potential suppliers submit their bids in sealed envelopes by a specified deadline. Once the deadline has passed, all submitted bids are publicly opened at a designated time, allowing for a clear and fair assessment of all offers. This approach emphasizes competition and allows the government to award contracts based on objective criteria, typically focusing on the lowest responsive bid.

This method contrasts with other options, where processes may not involve the same level of competitive transparency or may utilize negotiation rather than strict bidding procedures. For example, FAR Part 12 focuses on the acquisition of commercial items, which may not follow competitive bidding requirements, while FAR Part 13 covers simplified acquisition procedures that streamline certain processes without the formalities of sealed bidding. FAR Part 15 involves negotiated contracts, which prioritize discussions and adjustments during the bidding process rather than a straightforward bid opening.