Which of the following is a mandatory evaluation factor in every source selection?

• A. Schedule
• B. Risk
• C. Technical Merit
• D. Cost

Answer: (D)

Cost must be evaluated in every source selection because budget realities and value for money drive procurement decisions. You need to compare proposals not only on how well they meet technical needs, but also on price and total lifecycle costs, so the chosen option fits within funding and delivers the best overall value. While schedule, risk, and technical merit are important factors and are weighed against cost, the cost aspect provides the essential baseline that ensures affordability and helps prevent selecting a solution that, though excellent technically, isn’t financially viable.