The choice of procurement procedure affects the time required, the use of resources, and the opportunities for dialogue with suppliers during the procurement process. In a market characterized by rapid technological development, the need for quality assurance must be weighed against the risk of acquiring outdated solutions if processes take too long. The organization's familiarity with the market for the product or service to be procured will influence the choice of procurement method and form the basis for the competition strategy. Competitive dialogue can be a relevant and flexible procurement procedure for AI systems if it is unclear from the outset which solution is best suited. In a prequalification phase, the number of suppliers allowed to participate can initially be limited based on their expertise and experience, followed by a dialogue phase where the requirements specification can be adapted in collaboration with the suppliers [108].
- For example, South-Eastern Norway Regional Authority's procurement of a framework agreement for AI platforms was carried out as a competitive dialogue [109].
In many organizations, there are established procedures for conducting procurements. For example, Oslo University Hospital Trust has described such a procedure in its electronic handbook system for the procurement of medical technical equipment, known as the "eHandbook." [110]