12-Requests for Approved Equals.docx

This is a Requests for Approved Equals form issued by Broward County, Florida for use in conjunction with the Shade Structure Installation solicitation at Quiet Waters Park. The form provides vendors with a mechanism to request approval of alternative products that meet or exceed the specifications outlined in the original solicitation. Vendors must submit completed forms with supporting product literature to the Purchasing Agent by the deadline specified in the Special Instructions to Vendors section of the solicitation. The County will respond to all requests for approved equals via addendum, and vendors are instructed not to submit this form through the electronic bidding system (BPRO). The form requires vendors to provide detailed information including vendor identification, contact information, solicitation number and title, the specific specification being challenged, the proposed manufacturer and model number, and a comprehensive description of how the alternative product meets all solicitation requirements.

The County is not obligated to review incomplete requests, placing the burden on vendors to ensure thorough documentation of their proposed alternatives. This process allows vendors flexibility in product selection while maintaining the County's ability to evaluate alternatives against established specifications. The form template includes designated fields for both vendor submissions and Broward County's approval determination, with space for the County to document reasons for approval or rejection decisions. All solicitation responses, including requests for approved equals determinations, must ultimately be submitted through BPRO by the specified closing date and time, with vendors responsible for obtaining submission receipts to confirm successful delivery.