What Is A Prior Information Notice In Procurement?

Procurement can be a complicated process, especially if you’re not familiar with the terms and procedures involved. One such term that may leave you scratching your head is “Prior Information Notice.” But fear not! In this blog post, we’ll break down everything you need to know about Prior Information Notices (PINs) in procurement. Whether you’re a seasoned procurement professional or just getting started, understanding PINs is essential for any successful tendering process. So let’s dive in!

What is a Prior Information Notice (PIN)?

A Prior Information Notice (PIN) is a notice used in European Union public procurement to announce an upcoming procurement procedure.

The PIN allows potential suppliers to express their interest in the procurement and provides information on the main characteristics of the planned procedure. This early consultation gives suppliers the opportunity to plan and prepare for the procurement process.

The PIN is published in the Official Journal of the European Union (OJEU) and on Tenders Electronic Daily (TED), the European Union’s online tender platform.

What is the purpose of a PIN?

A PIN is a notice that is issued by a contracting authority in order to seek information from the market about a potential procurement. It allows the contracting authority to gauge market interest and capability, and also assesses the likely value of the procurement. This information can then be used to inform the decision on whether or not to proceed with the procurement.

Who issues PINs?

There are a few different types of PINs that can be issued in procurement. The most common type is the Prior Information Notice, or PIN. This is a notice that is issued by the procuring authority to potential suppliers in order to gather information about the availability of goods or services that might be required in the future. The other type of PIN that can be issued is the Pre-Information Notice, which is also issued by the procuring authority but is used to gather information about upcoming procurements.

When is a PIN required?

In order to ensure that a potential supplier is able to provide the required goods or services, a PIN may be used. This allows the contracting authority to assess whether the supplier is capable of meeting their needs before starting the formal tender process.

A PIN may also be published where the contracting authority has an on-going requirement for a particular good or service, and wishes to encourage competition by giving suppliers early notice of their requirements. In these cases, the PIN does not commit the contracting authority to awarding a contract, but allows them to identify suitable suppliers in advance.

How long does a PIN last?

A PIN is valid for four months from the date it is published on the EU Official Journal. After this period, the PIN expires and can no longer be used to access the procurement process.

What information must be included in a PIN?

When creating a PIN, contracting authorities must include the following information:

– A description of the intended procurement
– The estimated value of the procurement
– The time frame for the procurement
– The CPV codes for the procurement
– The NUTS code for the location of the procurement

Are there any exemptions to the requirement to publish a PIN?

Yes, there are a few exemptions to the requirement to publish a PIN. These include:

– If the estimated value of the contract is below certain thresholds (which vary by country)
– If the contract is classified as being of a confidential or national security nature
– If publication would prejudice the commercial interests of the potential bidders

What are the consequences of not publishing a PIN?

If you don’t publish a PIN, the consequences can be significant. You may miss out on key information that could help you make a more informed decision about a procurement. Additionally, not publishing a PIN can lead to increased costs and decreased competition.

Conclusion

As a procurement professional, it is important to understand the importance of Prior Information Notices (PINs) and how they can be used in procuring goods, services or works. PINs are an effective way to identify potential suppliers, gather market intelligence and create competition among interested parties. By using them as part of your procurement strategy you can ensure that your organization obtains the best value for money.