Best value tradeoff permits evaluators to award to a higher-priced offer if the non-price advantages justify the premium. Section M
defines the relative importance of factors such as technical merit, past performance, and risk. Offerors should present quantified
benefits and credible evidence to support higher ratings—demonstrated performance metrics, certifications, or cost-of-quality
analysis. Tradeoff documentation must be well-reasoned to withstand protest scrutiny. For contractors, the strategy is to highlight
discriminators and tie them to mission outcomes, not generic strengths. Understanding tradeoff logic helps teams allocate page space
and proof points where they will move the needle.
- Procurement & RFP Basics
Best Value Tradeoff
Evaluation method allowing the buyer to trade higher price for superior non-price factors.
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Related Glossary Terms
Evaluation method allowing the buyer to trade higher price for superior non-price factors.
Standards and factors used by the buyer to assess proposals and make award decisions.
Defines factors, subfactors, and relative importance used to rate proposals.
Evaluation method where the lowest-priced offer meeting minimum technical requirements wins.