What is meant by "Sole Source Justification"?

The term "Sole Source Justification" refers to the rationale provided for selecting a specific vendor as the only source for a required product or service. This justification is necessary when a purchase is made without considering other suppliers, usually because the vendor has unique capabilities or is the only supplier who can meet specific requirements that are critical to the operation. This method helps ensure transparency and accountability in procurement processes, especially in government and military contexts.

When using a sole source justification, it's essential to articulate why other vendors were not considered, often due to exclusivity of proprietary technology, specialized expertise, or unique qualifications that make the chosen vendor the sole viable option. This ensures compliance with regulatory and legal guidelines regarding fair competition and procurement integrity.

The other options refer to different practices: utilizing multiple vendors signifies a competitive procurement approach, general purchase approval does not reflect the specific circumstances of choosing a single source, and a budget constraint explanation pertains more to financial limitations rather than vendor selection criteria.