Policy Perspective on Use of LPTA. The DoD Source Selection Procedures includes a separate Appendix C devoted to the LPTA Source Selection Process (reference 4).

Of note, and identified upfront in the DoD Source Selection Guide, is reference to DFARS 215.101-2-70 Limitations and Prohibitions specific to types of procurements and when LPTA is NOT to be used as a source selection procedure and when contracting officers are required to avoid using LPTA or are prohibited from using the process.

The use of LPTA has increased but not necessarily successfully in all cases, causing concern by both the government and industry partners. Some specific concerns include:

 Government officials are not able to adequately define the requirement and, therefore, not able to adequately define technical acceptability.

 Awarded prices are unrealistically low.

o Incumbent contractors underbid at unrealistic prices.

o Winning contractors cannot attract qualified employees.

o Contractors are unable to perform at acceptable quality levels.

 Poor outcomes from using LPTA endanger the security of government resources, to include information systems and networks and personnel.