How to Win a Federal Bid
Competing for a GSA commission begins online. Opportunities are listed at www.fedbizopps.gov. Firms must signal their interest by submitting a thin portfolio—“not exceeding one-quarter-inch thickness,” in GSA’s parlance—describing relevant experience.
These portfolios kick o. a two-stage evaluation by a panel of five experts. One member of the evaluation board is a “national peer” from the private sector, while the other four include the GSA’s own design and engineering experts and a representative for the client.
The board’s analysis of portfolios will lead to a shortlist. Choices are said to be weighted for past performance (35%), philosophy and design intent (25%), the lead designer’s portfolio (25%), and the lead designer’s qualifications (15%).
Shepherd says the agency is looking for a philosophy and approach that respond to the program as well as demonstrated creativity and experience with similar challenges. Shortlisted firms will be interviewed and ranked. The board will make a recommendation for the commission, but that isn’t necessarily the end of the process.
The panel may be overruled and the commission awarded to a runner-up. Occasionally, a project will be critical enough to require a charrette and evaluation by a jury of three national peers. On a high-stakes project, shortlisted firms may also be subjected to a full-blown design competition to winnow out the losers.
Whatever the exceptions, Shepherd insists, “Selection panels are independent.” He waits to weigh in after the architect has been chosen.