Negotiated procedure

A procedure where the buyer may negotiate terms and price with bidders before the final award. Under EU rules it is allowed only in set circumstances.

Related terms

Competitive dialogue

A procedure where the buyer discusses solutions with shortlisted suppliers before they submit final bids. Used for complex IT programmes where the solution is not known up front.

Direct award

Giving a contract to one supplier without a competition, allowed only in set cases such as low value, urgency or only one possible supplier. Buyers usually must publish why.