5.9.1.2. Split (Primary) Award

In the split award scenario, the solicitation has been divided into two or more parts and each part will be awarded to the best ranked supplier for that particular part. In a split award scenario, more than one supplier may receive a contract award; however, there is no overlap of contract awards. For example, an RFQRequest for Quotations may identify multiple products that may be purchased from separate sources or an RFPRequest for Proposals may identify several different locations or facilities to be serviced separately. A split award is more likely to occur on a multi-line RFQRequest for Quotations than with an RFPRequest for Proposals.

For an RFQRequest for Quotations, each line item is awarded to the responsive and responsible supplier who had the lowest price for that particular line item and is both clearly capable of performing and has reached agreement with the state entity as to contract terms. For an RFPRequest for Proposals, each part of the solicitation must be awarded to the supplier with the highest total score and with whom the state entity has reached agreement as to contract terms. Making a split award may or may not be the most economical solution for the state as there are costs associated in managing more than one contract. Ordinarily, split awards will not be made unless the saving to the state entity exceeds 5% of the total contract price or $500.00, whichever is greater. However, the issuing officer may make a split award even if those thresholds are not met, however the issuing officer’s rationale should be documented.