Source Selection & Evaluation Flashcards
7 cards from real SSO practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Source Selection & Evaluation flashcards as text
An SSO is selecting a provider for anti-piracy equipment in a High Risk Area (HRA). Which source BEST defines the minimum equipment requirements?
Answer: Best Management Practices (BMP) for Protection against Somalia Based Piracy or equivalent industry guidance
BMP and equivalent industry guidance documents define recognized minimum standards for anti-piracy protective measures in designated High Risk Areas.
When evaluating a security guard company, the SSO requests proof of liability insurance. The vendor provides a certificate that expired 30 days ago. The SSO should:
Answer: Require current, valid insurance documentation before proceeding
Expired insurance documentation means the vendor currently lacks coverage; valid current insurance is a non-negotiable requirement before engagement.
Which evaluation method provides the MOST objective comparison between multiple security equipment vendors?
Answer: Using a pre-defined weighted scoring matrix based on technical and compliance criteria
A pre-defined weighted scoring matrix applies consistent, objective criteria to all vendors, minimizing bias and ensuring the selection is defensible.
When sourcing a vessel tracking system (AIS/LRIT), the SSO should ensure the system is type-approved by:
Answer: A recognized organization accepted by the flag state administration
SOLAS requires that navigation and security systems be type-approved by recognized organizations accepted by the flag state administration.
An SSO is renewing a contract for security training services. The current provider delivered satisfactory results previously. The BEST approach for the renewal is to:
Answer: Conduct a performance review against contract KPIs before committing to renewal
Contract renewals should be informed by a structured performance review that measures delivery against agreed KPIs, ensuring continued value and compliance.
A flag state inspector notes that the ship's access control equipment was sourced from a vendor not recognized by the flag state. The likely consequence is:
Answer: A deficiency notice or detention until compliant equipment is installed
Equipment that is not recognized by the flag state fails to meet SOLAS/ISPS requirements, resulting in deficiency notices and potentially vessel detention.
When developing criteria for selecting a security risk assessment firm, the SSO should ensure the firm's methodologies align with:
Answer: IMO MSC circulars, ISPS Code guidance, and flag state directives
Assessment methodologies must align with IMO guidance documents and flag state directives to produce results that satisfy regulatory and audit requirements.