SPECIAL NOTICE -- QUALIFIED SUPPLIERS LIST (QSL) PROGRAM The U.S. Army Tank-automotive and Armaments Command (TACOM) has instituted the Qualified Suppliers List (QSL) Program for certain families of products. The objectives are to achieve acquisition reform streamlining in the procurement process, improve delivery times, enhance electronic commerce, ensure high product quality and improve readiness of the Army. TACOM is planning to establish two (2) additional QSLs; QSL-03 (Tactical Wheeled Vehicle Fenders, Hoods, Doors and Tailgates) and QSL-04 (Padded Cushions). The purpose of the QSL Program is to establish and maintain a list of pre-qualified sources for certain families of products which are purchased and managed by TACOM. Only QSL approved suppliers will be able to receive an award solicited under this program. An approved qualified supplier is a concern who has met the requirements for qualification, and whose business address has been entered on the applicable QSL. The QSL concept takes the quality requirements normally stated in each solicitation and sets a common criteria for evaluation across a family of products. The criteria will be based on industry norms and when necessary, product specific/unique requirements. Companies who apply will be qualified against the criteria and placed on the QSL if they have a documented, deployed and effective quality system which meets or exceeds the criteria. Qualification must be completed before award of a contract. Industry may, depending on commodity group needs, see benefits ranging from fewer audits, simpler bid proposals procedures, less government source inspection, fewer contract data requirements and fewer government approvals. TACOM is also reserving the right to make the traditional small business and minority/disadvantaged acquisition decisions for meeting the Government socio-economic objectives. Our current list of QSL commodities with their approved list of suppliers and technical program requirements can be accessed by visiting the TACOM QSL website at http://www.tacom.army.mil/acqcen/qsl/qsl.htm Industry comments and questions are invited. They should be submitted to Mr. Prince Young, Jr. (810) 574-7216, e-mail youngp@tacom.army.mil or Mr. Terry Hill (973) 724-3628, e-mail thill@pica.army.mil. WEB: Click here for our current list of QSL commodities, http://www.tacom.army.mil/acqcen/qsl/gsl.htm. Posted 07/14/99 (W-SN353818).

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