Ausschreibungskommunikation

Ausschreibung, in English often translated as tendering or call for bids, is the formal process by which a buyer invites suppliers to submit offers for the supply of goods, services, or works. It is used by public authorities and many private organizations to compare options, ensure transparency, and obtain best value through competition. The term covers both general procurement procedures and more specialized forms used in different sectors.

Public procurement contexts use several procedures, including open procedures, restricted procedures, negotiated procedures with or without prior publication, and competitive dialogues. In the construction sector, national rules may be aligned with the VOB/A. In the European Union, tendering follows directives that set the overall framework for publication, fair competition, and criteria-based award, with national adaptations. Private sector procurement can be more flexible but still relies on clear requirements and documented processes.

A typical Ausschreibung process includes planning the need, drafting tender documents (scope of work, technical specifications, contract terms), publishing the tender, submitting bids, and evaluating them against predefined suitability and awarding criteria. Common criteria include price, quality, technical merit, delivery time, and sustainability or social considerations. After a contract award, a standstill period may allow challenges before the contract is finalized. Digital platforms for e-procurement and regional or EU-wide portals (such as TED) support transparency and timely participation.

The purpose of Ausschreibungen is to promote competition, prevent corruption, and ensure equal treatment of bidders. They are governed by a combination of EU directives and national laws, which specify procedures, timelines, and remedies to maintain integrity in procurement.