In the context of public sector tendering, what does the term "competitive dialogue procedure" refer to?

The term "competitive dialogue procedure" refers to a process in public sector tendering that allows for interaction between the contracting authority and potential bidders. In this procedure, the authority engages in discussions with bidders to clarify aspects of the project and to refine the proposed solutions before formal submissions are made. This collaborative approach enables the bidders to better understand the requirements and allows the contracting authority to assess potential solutions more thoroughly, which can lead to more innovative and effective proposals.

This method is particularly advantageous when the contracting authority is facing complex requirements that may not readily translate into straightforward specifications. By fostering dialogue, the authority can ensure that bidders can deliver proposals that meet the actual needs of the project, ultimately enhancing the quality of the tender process and outcomes.