(a) Each phase of a phased acquisition not performed in-house must be synopsized in accordance with FAR 5.201 and must include all the information required by FAR 5.207. Time gaps between phases should be minimized by early synopsis of subsequent phase competition. The synopsis for the initial competitive phase should also state the following:
(1) The Government plans to conduct a phased acquisition involving a competitive down-selection process. (Include a description of the process and the phases involved).
(2) Competitions for identified subsequent phases will build on the results of previous phases.
(3) The award criteria for subsequent phases will include demonstrated completion of specified previous phase requirements.
(4) The Government expects that only the initial phase contractors will be capable of successfully competing for the subsequent phase(s). Proposals for the subsequent phase(s) will be requested from these contractors.
(5) The Government intends to issue (or not issue) a new, formal solicitation(s) for subsequent phase(s). If new solicitations are not planned, the acquisition must be identified as a "progressive competition" (see 1817.7301-5), and the mechanism for providing pertinent subsequent phase proposal information (e.g., statements of work, specifications, proposal preparation instructions, and evaluation factors for award) must be described.
(6) Each subsequent phase of the acquisition will be synopsized in accordance with FAR 5.201 and 5.203.
(7) Notwithstanding the expectation that only the initial phase contractors will be capable of successfully competing for the subsequent phase(s), proposals from all responsible sources submitted by the specified due date will be considered. In order to contend for subsequent phase awards, however, such prospective offerors must demonstrate a design maturity equivalent to that of the prior phase contractors. Failure to fully and completely demonstrate the appropriate level of design maturity may render the proposal unacceptable with no further consideration for contract award.
(b) In addition to the information in paragraph (a) of this section, the synopsis for the subsequent phase(s) must identify the current phase contractors.