Electronic reverse auctions (eAuctions) are an innovative procurement technique that use secured Internet-based technology. The sense of competition is heightened as suppliers compete in real time by bidding lower as the auction unfolds.
eAuctions are being increasingly used in public and private sectors as standard practice, both in prime contracts and in securing value in the supply chain. Suppliers are also realising the benefits of online bidding because of transparency and increased market awareness. This guidance is designed to help departments make the optimum use of the value for money opportunity offered by eAuctions.
If you have not already done so, you should use the eAuction Decision Tool embedded within this guidance in order to receive assistance in evaluating whether an eAuction is suitable for an intended procurement.
To access the eAuction Decision Tool click the link below and, if prompted, click on the enable macros button. Please do not attempt to save any information to the eAuction Tool.
eAuction Decision Tool (MS Excel)
If the Decision Tool fails to operate this may be because your Microsoft Excel security setting is too high, and so is prohibiting the use of macros. This problem can be overcome by closing the eAuction Decision Tool and opening up Microsoft Excel. Once open, select the TOOLS menu and click on MACRO, and then SECURITY. In the SECURITY LEVEL tab choose MEDIUM, click on OK, and then close Microsoft Excel. Then reopen the eAuction Decision Tool.
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Page last updated: 2008-10-20