With the pre-qualification portion of the process completed, the final step of issuing the RFB/P to the pool of pre-qualified participants can be undertaken. The RFB/P should:
• clearly describe the procurement process and provide enough information for bidders to make an informed decision on whether to respond to the proposed business opportunity; and
• be prepared under the guidance of legal counsel to mitigate litigation risk and ensure a fair, transparent and efficient bidding process.
Written proposals received by the short-listed bidders will focus on the bidder's past performance, in terms of their technical and operational competence. The proponent will then review the written submissions and possibly ask each short-listed bidder to make an oral presentation that will focus on the bidder's overall capability, relevant experience and financial stability to form a successful business relationship. Selection of successful bidders should be based on the criteria set out in the RFB/P. A debriefing session for unsuccessful participants is strongly recommended.