Sometimes, RFP processes 'go wrong'. It may be the inexperience of the person managing the process, changes in legislation, changes in direction, or a series of circumstances that get in the way of the process. However, public sector intends to be fair, open and transparent in their procurements. To that end, the government makes its organizations be accountable. Therefore, there are avenues for unsuccessful suppliers to voice their concerns, and escalate their issue(s) if necessary.
In BC, the vendor complaint process consists of a few steps:
1) Discussion w the process contact person
2) Formal/informal Debriefing
3) Escalation to Ministry Vendor Complaint Review contact
4) Escalation to Procurement Governance Office
The steps and forms can be found here
For Canadian Federal Government, the vendor complaint process goes through the independent Canadian Industry Trade Tribunal - although going through the 1st 2 steps above can't hurt! Note, though, the CITT process has a tight timeline for filing!
Not all public sector organizations have a formal vendor complaint proces...yet...but as a buyer, I would highly recommend speaking to the contact person from the solicitation process as your first step, AND to obtain a debriefing.
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