What should a Program Manager do upon receiving an unsolicited proposal with some merits?

In the context of assessing an unsolicited proposal with some merits, it is essential for a Program Manager to carefully evaluate whether the proposal aligns with the relevant criteria and requirements established by the organization. Option C highlights the importance of adhering to established guidelines when dealing with unsolicited proposals.

The Program Manager must ensure that the proposal meets specific criteria, such as relevance to the organization's needs, innovation, technical feasibility, and cost-effectiveness. If the proposal does not satisfy these criteria, it would not be appropriate to proceed further with it. By rejecting a proposal that fails to meet the necessary standards, the Program Manager safeguards resources and ensures that only viable, beneficial proposals are pursued.

The other options, while potentially appealing in situations where the merits of a proposal are evident, do not align with best practices regarding unsolicited proposals. For instance, awarding a contract immediately is impractical without thorough evaluation. Conducting a competitive solicitation could be relevant in other contexts but is not appropriate here since unsolicited proposals require a unique assessment process. Forwarding the proposal to a higher authority for review may not be necessary if the Program Manager is equipped to make a determination based on established criteria. Thus, understanding the significance of reviewing against specific criteria is crucial for effective decision-making in contract management.