1. (a) Request for qualifications (RFQ).

   1. (1) The request for qualifications is, in the absence of sole-source justification, the procurement method recommended when contracting for architectural, engineering, land surveying, legal, and interior design services.
   2. (2) It may also be used, with prior approval from the Office of State Procurement, as the selection method for other PCS contracts when it is determined to be the most suitable method of contracting.

2. (b)

   1. (1) The RFQ is sent to those vendors registered with the office for the scope of work or services required, or vendors recommended to the office as best suited to perform the work specified.
   2. (2) Notification to the public must be in accordance with the provisions of Arkansas Code § 19-11-229(d).
   3. (3) The agency makes its initial selection based upon the respondent’s qualifications.
   4. (4) Only after the most qualified respondent is identified does cost become a factor in determining the award.
   5. (5) Discussions may be conducted with responsible offerors who, based upon qualifications submitted, are determined to be reasonably susceptible of being selected for the purpose of clarification to ensure full understanding of, and responsiveness to, the solicitation requirements, and to obtain best and final offers.

Codification Notes: This section was promulgated as R1:19-11-802 of the Procurement Rules prior to codification into the Code of Arkansas Rules. "PCS" means professional and consultant services. This subpart as promulgated prior to codification into the Code of Arkansas Rules provided as follows: "R2: 19-11-1008 Procedures for Approval of Architects, Engineers, and Land Surveyor Contracts With the exception of those agencies exempt from Arkansas Building Authority review, all contracts for architectural, engineering and land surveyor services must be first submitted to Arkansas Building Authority for their recommendation and approval as to the propriety and legality of the contract. Agencies shall submit contracts to ABA seven (7) working days prior to the deadline for submittal to DF&A. After receiving the recommendation and approval of Arkansas Building Authority, the contract shall be submitted to the Office of State Procurement of the Department of Finance and Administration. No contract requiring ABA review shall be submitted to the office without first seeking the recommendation and approval of Arkansas Building Authority. In the event Arkansas Building Authority refuses to give a favorable recommendation to the propriety of the contract, the agency involved may request the Legislative Council to review the decision of Arkansas Building Authority. The Legislative Council may then request Arkansas Building Authority to review their previous decision, abide by the decision of Arkansas Building Authority, or request the agency to make changes in the contract. In no event shall Arkansas Building Authority have the final authority to deny a contract solely on the basis of its propriety."