Competitive Dialogue With Negotiation Definition

Competitive dialogue with negotiation is a structured process that can be used to procure complex products, services or works where the contracting authority is unable to define its precise requirements at the outset and considers that competition among suppliers is the best means of securing value for money.

The process begins with a dialogue phase in which the contracting authority engages with potential suppliers to understand their capabilities and capacity to meet its needs. This is followed by a negotiation phase, during which the contracting authority seeks to negotiate contractual terms with one or more supplier(s).

The competitive dialogue with negotiation process can be used for both open and restricted procedures. In an open procedure, any interested supplier may submit a bid in response to the contracting authority’s call for competition. In a restricted procedure, only those suppliers who have been invited to participate may submit a bid.