The general rule governing the acquisition of services and goods is that a competitive and transparent process must be conducted.
The choice of solicitation method and competition is influenced by a number of factors, including:
- market conditions
- complexity of the requirement
- monetary value of the procurement
- whether goods, works or services are required.
The location and delivery time frame also may have an effect on the choice of tender method, the level of competition and the procedures applied. Defining the tender method and competition entails selecting the most suitable supply method for the given situation.
| Step | Action |
| 1 | Determine whether to conduct a solicitation process, or whether the needs can be met through the use of an existing Long Term Agreement (LTA) or redeployment of assets. A justification should be recorded explaining the chosen strategy (e.g. why an LTA from UNAIDS or other UN agency is not used, or why existing assets currently owned by UNAIDS cannot be redeployed). |
| 2 | If the need for a solicitation process is established, select the appropriate solicitation method (depending on the complexity and value of needs). |
| 3 | Select the type of competition. Open competition is preferred. Where the office or unit determines that open competition is not feasible, a limited competition can be carried out, depending on the nature and complexity of the procurement activity. Limited competition can be used only after obtaining the approval of the Procurement Coordinator/Chief FRC. It is essential to ensure that the selected type of competition is both economic and efficient, and that it results in UNAIDS obtaining best value for money. |