What measures did the Department take to ensure the process was fair, open and transparent?
A number of measures were implemented. PWGSC staff managing existing AFD contracts were segregated from those overseeing the second contracting out competition. A third party review of solicitation and evaluation documents was also conducted. PWGSC consulted extensively with industry and executed a rigorous 10-step evaluation process. Industry consultation: This procurement featured an unprecedented sharing of information and collaboration between government and industry. Approximately 60 firms attended briefings in five centres across the country. PWGSC shared draft tender documentation with industry whose feedback was instrumental in improving the final statement of work. One-on-one sessions and a bidders’ conference were also held. Ten-step evaluation process: Each portfolio was bid on and evaluated independently. Eight separate evaluations, one for each portfolio, were conducted at a secure site by teams of both real property and contracting experts. A total of 324 requirements per
