Awardee's Removal of Unacceptable Condition in Bid After Best and Final Offers

A company protested a contract award, alleging that the agency improperly conducted negotiations with the awardee after receipt of best and final offers and allowed the awardee to remove an unacceptable condition in its proposal. The unacceptable condition was caused by the solicitation itself, and there was no impropriety involved in allowing a revised quotation. Although the modification was submitted late, it was acceptable. Allegations of improper disclosure of the protester's data were not proven. The agency should review the need for and conduct of directed source subcontractor procurements.