Frequently Asked Questions
about Reverse Auction Purchasing

What products and services work best in a Reverse Auction?

Is a buyer obligated to accept the lowest bid?

• No, each buyer may evaluate the online bids to determine for themselves "Lowest & Best Value."

Is the buyer obligated to award?

• No, if the buyer is not satisfied with the bids, they are free to reject all bids.

Does a supplier have to lower their bid?

• No, they are required to submit their bid online by the deadline but are under no obligation to lower their bid.

What if there are no initial bids?

• The event is cancelled. The buyer may proceed as if no sealed bids were received.

What if issues arise during the online event?

• During pre-event training, a toll free telephone number is provided that allows for assistance, up to and including suspension of the event until the issues can be resolved.

When does the supplier pay the transaction fee?

• Normally when the payment is made to the supplier by the Buyer, after receipt and acceptance of the goods, equipment, or services.

Who invites and approves suppliers?

• The buyer provides a preferred supplier list. However, BidBridge can strategically source the list with other suppliers from their database. The buyer ultimately approves all suppliers that are invited to bid.

What if a prospective bidder is not "Internet savvy?"

• The online bidding platform is very simple to use. A BidBridge team member will conduct a short online pre-event training session with each supplier to ensure they know how the process works. When necessary, BidBridge will work with the supplier to gain computer access or bid by proxy in their behalf.

Where is the ESB Reverse Auction event viewed?

• Just as sealed bids are opened in a public venue, the ESB events are viewed in a public setting determined by the buyer.

What does the ESB Reverse Auction service cost?

• There is no direct charge to the buyer to use this service. The service is funded by a small transaction fee paid by the winning supplier.

What is the length of the ESB Reverse Auction?

• The length of the event is determined by the buyer and depends on the complexity the event. Usually, the events are set to run for 30 minutes with 3 minute extensions when a lowering bid is placed.

How are Alternates handled?

• No differently than as directed in the specifications. The bid spreadsheet is amended to reflect the addition or subtraction pricing of the alternate.

How are surety concerns handled?

• The submission procedure for Bid Bonds should be clearly documented in the specifications, and then handled just as it would be with a sealed paper bid.