kontraktudråbning

Kontraktudråbning is a term used in Danish language discourse to describe the act of publicly announcing a contract opportunity in order to invite bids from suppliers. It is not a formal legal term, but rather a descriptive label that appears in media, industry discussions, and practical guidance on procurement.

Etymologically, the word combines kontrakt (contract) with udråbning (calling out or proclamation). In practice, the concept refers to the phase in a procurement process where a contracting authority makes the opportunity known, provides tender documents, and sets the rules for how bids should be submitted and evaluated.

In a typical kontraktudråbning, the contracting authority issues a public notice or tender invitation, includes specifications and criteria, and establishes deadlines for questions and submission of offers. Bidders prepare and submit proposals, which are then evaluated according to predefined criteria such as price, quality, technical capability, and experience. The contract is usually awarded to the bidder that best meets the criteria, after possible negotiation or clarification rounds, followed by the signing of the contract.

Legal context wise, kontraktudråbning falls under the broader framework of public procurement. In Denmark and within EU public procurement rules, the formal terminology used is generally udbud, anmodning om tilbud, or open/restricted procedures. The practice emphasizes transparency, equal treatment, and competition, with remedies available for challenging procedures perceived as unfair.

The term can be used descriptively rather than prescriptively, and may be contrasted with negotiated procedures or restricted tenders. Critics caution that overly informal kontraktudråbning can undermine competitiveness unless accompanied by clear rules and accessible information for all potential bidders.