What method of soliciting quotes must the contracting officer use to the maximum extent practicable?

The contracting officer must use competitive procedures to solicit quotes, ensuring that they seek bids from multiple sources to promote fair competition. This typically involves issuing a Request for Quotations (RFQ) or similar solicitation methods. By doing so, they can obtain a range of price and performance options, which helps ensure the best value for the government. The goal is to maximize transparency and promote equitable opportunities for potential vendors.