ACE declares position on reverse auctioning for professional services

Providers of professional services in the built environment that find themselves involved in reverse auctioning situations are being encouraged to inform the Association for Consultancy & Engineering immediately. A statement from ACE says, ‘Reverse auction bidding is inappropriate for projects involving professional services and, in particular, consultancy and engineering services in the built and natural environment.’ Among the reasons for opposing reverse auctioning are reduction in the quality of service received by the client, an adverse effect on value-for-money criteria and the stifling of innovation. In addition, the practice of reverse auctioning does not value partnering relationships that promote a team approach to problem solving, collaborating and value-based decision making. ACE has developed a briefing note ‘Reverse auctioning — issues for clients’, which can be provided to clients.