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How do you handle a past performance questionnaire when the client won't complete it?

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We are working on a federal Request for Proposal (RFP) for IT services, NAICS 541519, that is a full and open competition. The deadline for proposals is next Friday. The RFP requires us to submit a past performance questionnaire for each relevant project. We have a great client with highly relevant past performance for this bid, but they are not responding to our requests to complete the questionnaire. We've called and emailed the Contracting Officer's Representative (COR) several times, and even reached out to our direct contact who we work with daily. Everyone says they'll get to it, but it isn't happening. How do you handle a client who won't complete a required past performance questionnaire, especially when the deadline is so close?

asked Priya S. Verified vendorCapture manager, IT services · Herndon, VA · 449 rep

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When a client will not complete a required past performance questionnaire, you should submit the proposal explaining the situation and include any other documentation that supports your past performance. You cannot force a client to complete a questionnaire, so you must show the evaluators that you tried to comply with the solicitation requirements and that you have strong past performance. In your technical volume, clearly state that you repeatedly attempted to get the questionnaire completed by your client, but they were unable to return it by the proposal deadline. Include the client's contact information, the project name, and the dates you contacted them. Then, in place of the questionnaire, provide other evidence of exceptional performance for that contract. This can include copies of positive emails from the client, letters of commendation, or copies of invoices showing consistent work. The goal is to provide the contracting officer with enough information to verify the past performance themselves, if they choose to do so, and to demonstrate that your firm is a responsible prospective contractor. Remember, the government wants to award contracts to firms that can do the work, and your job is to make it as easy as possible for them to see that you can.

answered Jo R. Freelance proposal writer · Denver, CO · 639 rep

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Sign up to answerCite the FAR clause or procurement code where you can.