bestekomschrijving

Bestekomschrijving, literally “bestek description” or “specification description,” is a component of procurement documentation used primarily in the Netherlands and Belgium to define the scope of work and requirements in a contract. It forms part of the bestek (contract specification) and is used in public works, construction, and major procurement projects to communicate precisely what is to be delivered and how it will be measured and paid.

A bestekomschrijving sets out the scope of work, technical specifications, standards to be met, quantities, drawings or references, delivery schedules, and quality assurance requirements. It may also include safety, environmental, and regulatory compliance obligations, terms and conditions, and the basis for acceptance and payment. The description should be clear and unambiguous to enable bidders to prepare comparable offers, and to provide a basis for post-award verification and measurement.

Typical elements include: scope of work; technical specifications or functional performance criteria; measurement and payment methods; drawings and references; project timelines; quality control and testing procedures; contract conditions; and change management. There are different approaches, from functional specifications (describing intended outcomes) to detailed technical specifications (prescribing exact materials or processes), or a hybrid.

In practice, the bestekomschrijving is used alongside general conditions, drawings, and contract documents in the bidding process and is essential for evaluation, contract formation, and later verification of completed work. It aims to reduce ambiguity and facilitate fair competition.