The Invitation for Bids (IFB) method of formal bidding is used
for procurements exceeding $25,000.
(1) Advertisement. Public notice of the issuance of
an IFB is posted on the Electronic State Business Daily (ESBD) in
accordance with Texas Government Code §2155.083. The solicitation
must include evaluation and selection criteria and the process for
making a selection.
(2) Bid evaluation.
(A) A bid containing a material failure to comply with
the advertised specifications shall be rejected.
(B) HHSC may waive a minor irregularity or permit a
respondent to correct a minor irregularity in a bid, if the irregularity:
(i) is purely a matter of form rather than substance;
and
(ii) does not materially affect price, quality, or
delivery of the desired goods or services.
(C) A bid containing a self-evident error may be withdrawn
by the bidder prior to an award.
(D) Bid prices which are subject to unlimited escalation
will not be considered. A bidder may offer a predetermined limit of
escalation in their bid and the bid shall be evaluated based on the
full amount of the escalation.
(E) Vendors may be required to provide samples for
evaluation, testing, demonstration, or inspection as part of a competitive
bid.
(3) Bid submission.
(A) A bid received after the bid due date and time
established by the bid invitation is a late bid and shall not be considered.
(B) If an error is discovered in a bid invitation,
or requirements change prior to the opening of a bid, HHSC shall post
an addendum on the ESBD correcting or changing the specifications.
(4) Award. A contract is awarded to the bidder that
provides best value and conforms to the advertised product or service
specifications.
|
