Insufficient Time to Prepare Bid Samples and Ambiguities in Solicitation Were Alleged

A company protesting provisions in a solicitation contended that there was insufficient time for preparation of a responsive bid or to seek clarifications in writing. The requirement for samples of the exact materials to be used in the printing of bonds was alleged to be unrealistic and to give an unfair competitive advantage to the incumbent contractor who was the only bidder to whom all essential information was available. The protest was denied, but the agency should review its procurement approach to provide a longer bid preparation period and a full description of the samples required. (SW)