What is the difference between brand specific and sole source?
Brand specific is when a manufacturer’s name and product description is a requirement. Items offered in response to a bid solicitation must be the exact manufacturer, model and type specified. Brand specific may be needed due to compatibility and continuity of support. Competition must be sought whenever possible since brand specific products may be available from multiple sources of supply. A sole source is when a needed product or service is available from only one source of supply. Under these conditions, competition may be waived. Whether a sole source or brand specific is being contemplated, proper written justification must be documented in the purchase file.
