You are preparing an IFB for $100$ different electronic components to support the Western Region's MASTER Computer System. The independent government estimate is $$5,225,000.$ Good commercial purchase descriptions are available for these parts. There are $15$ firms that typically offer very competitive bids on these components, but most cannot bid on all line items. Which price$-$related factor should you consider in evaluating the sealed bids?

$$ Cost of doing business with the government

Cost of vendor promotion ceremonies to introduce new products

Assumed administrative cost of awarding multiple contracts

$$ Cost of contractor trade showsh