

Do not try to recoup perceived losses post-auction by charging exorbitant fees for change orders. In addition to expecting that a supplier will maintain the same level of quality, buyers expect that the supplier will maintain the same ethics and fair price structures that they have in the past. Charging more might help a supplier’s profits in the short term, but when the contract ends, chances are the buyer will drop the supplier. Furthermore, if a supplier gains a reputation in the marketplace as being deceitful, the chances of that supplier being invited to other auctions will severely diminish.
Exceptions are made for honest, data entry errors. Any errors submitted during an auction should be immediately reported to the Buyer to prevent disruption of the auction. Many e-Sourcing software providers can support a process for managing auction-related errors. It is important that the e-Sourcing software can technically remove bids placed in error.
This includes any discrepancies or inaccuracies the supplier may find in the RFQ and timeline. The buying team should establish a process for handling this type of feedback. Additionally, the e-Sourcing software should have a technical ability to accept comments from the suppliers.
If the buyer thinks a supplier is participating solely to collect market intelligence, not only is it likely that the buyer will not award that supplier any business, but it is also likely that the supplier will not be invited to participate in future auctions. If a supplier gets a bad reputation by word of mouth, it could be a long time before that supplier is invited to another auction.
Interested suppliers cannot sabotage the auction process by submitting bids via email, fax, post or orally. To be considered, all bids must be submitted via the online auction.
Avoid this barrier by openly communicating with suppliers at all times, particularly with regards to the award criteria. Be very clear as to what will be the critical factors determining who will win the business, when possible what weight is given to each, and how it will be assessed. Only use the pre-established forums for communication, consistently and honestly follow up on any and all issues that arise, and stick to the code of ethics, which should be available to all suppliers at all times.
Furthermore, if the buyer doesn’t follow through on award and contract negotiations quickly, the buyer could lose credibility in the marketplace. It is very important that all auctions conducted by the Sourcing Team are managed in a consistent and ethical manner. News travels fast, especially when suppliers feel they have been treated unethically or unfairly.