Which procurement method is described as 'Competitive Bidding/Sealed Bids'?

• A. OPEN BIDDING
• B. COMPETITIVE BIDDING/SEALED BIDS
• C. NEGOTIATED BIDDING
• D. DIRECT CONTRACTING

Answer: (B)

Competitive bidding with sealed bids means suppliers submit their bids in sealed envelopes by a set deadline, and those bids are opened at a designated time in a transparent, public manner. This setup ensures each bidder competes on price and meets the same requirements, promoting fairness and value. Because bids are sealed, competitors cannot influence or copy each other’s offers before the opening, reducing the chance of price manipulation or favoritism. The contract is awarded to the bidder who satisfies all criteria and offers the best value, typically the lowest price for the specified goods or services unless other value factors are explicitly considered. This approach is distinct from non-competitive methods like direct contracting or negotiations after bids.