Why is debriefing a best practice?
Governments should respond positively to a debriefing request. First, it recognizes that the respondent spent a lot of time and money preparing its proposal. A debriefing ensures that a respondent also understands the reciprocal work done by the government. It explains the RFP evaluation process as well as the amount of time and effort expended by the evaluation committee. In many cases, a debriefing will avoid the possibility that a rejected respondent will take its disappointment to a higher authority – your boss, the minister or a member of the provincial Legislature. Most importantly, debriefings are good for everyone concerned. Respondents can learn from their mistakes; they can’t improve if they don’t understand their failings. Debriefings will encourage them, and hopefully help them submit better proposals in the future. And the government benefits by having stronger suppliers. Who does a debriefing? The best person is the RFP coordinator or government staff member who organized
