The functions or subsystems to be subcontracted are selected to match the skills and capabilities of potential subcontractors. The specification of the software products and activities to be subcontracted is determined based on a systematic analysis and appropriate partitioning of the system and software requirements. Refer to Ability 1 of the Software Project Planning key process area for practices covering typical contents of the statement of work. A plan for selecting a subcontractor is prepared concurrent with the subcontract statement of work and is reviewed, as appropriate. The software subcontractor is selected, based on an evaluation of the subcontract bidders' ability to perform the work, according to a documented procedure.
Prior performance records on similar work, if available.
The geographic locations of the subcontract bidders' organizations relative to the prime contractor. Software engineering and software management capabilities. An example of a method to evaluate subcontractors' capabilities is the SEI Software Capability Evaluation method. Staff available to perform the work. Prior experience in similar applications, including software expertise on the subcontractor's software management team.