Which procurement approach allows owners to negotiate with the most qualified proposer?

The procurement approach that allows owners to negotiate with the most qualified proposer is best value. This method emphasizes not just the lowest bid but also considers qualifications, experience, quality of work, and other important criteria alongside cost.

In a best value procurement, owners evaluate proposals based on a combination of factors, which may include price, technical approach, and the demonstrable ability of the proposer to meet the project's specific needs effectively. This allows for a more comprehensive assessment of what each proposer brings to the table, making it possible for owners to negotiate with the top candidates who demonstrate the best combination of quality and price.

This approach contrasts with other methods, such as competitive bidding, where the focus is primarily on selecting the lowest bid without room for negotiation. In a firm fixed pricing model, the price is set and does not allow for changes post-bid, limiting flexibility in negotiations. Design build to budget similarly restricts negotiation options as it is more focused on delivering the project within a predetermined budget rather than on finding the best overall value.