Why can't the Evaluation Committee change the criteria listed in an RFP after closing?

The reason the Evaluation Committee is unable to change the criteria listed in the Request for Proposals (RFP) after the closing date lies in the principles of fairness and transparency that govern public procurement processes. Once the RFP has been closed, the criteria become a binding element of the procurement process; they define how proposals will be assessed against the requirements set forth at the outset.

Altering the criteria after closing could lead to perceptions of impropriety and favoritism, undermining the integrity of the evaluation process. It ensures that all bidders are evaluated on the same basis, maintaining a level playing field for all participants. This adherence to established rules and guidelines helps build trust in the procurement process and protects the organization against potential challenges or disputes regarding the awarding of contracts.

Changes to evaluation criteria after closing can also disrupt the entire evaluation process, making it difficult to fairly assess submitted proposals and potentially leading to legal ramifications. Thus, maintaining the original evaluation criteria established in the RFP is crucial for upholding the standards of accountability and transparency inherent in public procurement.