evaluation model

An evaluation model is the methodology a contracting authority uses to convert price and quality into comparable values, making it possible to rank tenders and identify the most economically advantageous tender. While award criteria define what is assessed and weighting determines how much each criterion counts, the evaluation model is the calculation method that produces the final ranking.

How does an evaluation model work?

The core challenge is straightforward: price is a number in currency, while quality is a qualitative judgement. The evaluation model transforms these into comparable quantities so the contracting authority can determine which bid offers the best value.

Two main approaches are used across the EU/EEA:

• Scoring model — Both price and quality are converted into points. Points are adjusted for each criterion's weight, and the tender with the highest total score wins. A common variant is the proportional method, where the score difference mirrors the relative price difference between tenders.

• Monetising quality (quality-to-price) — Instead of points, qualitative differences are assigned a monetary value. This value adjusts the actual tender price, and the tender with the lowest evaluated price wins. This approach is recommended by Norway's DFØ (Agency for Public Management) because it forces the contracting authority to articulate its willingness to pay for quality.

Key principles

• Discretion: Directive 2014/24/EU does not prescribe a specific evaluation model. Contracting authorities are free to choose the methodology that best suits their procurement.
• Predictability: If the model is disclosed in the tender documents, the contracting authority is bound to use it. Switching models after opening bids violates the principles of equal treatment and transparency.
• Proportionality: The scoring method must reflect genuine differences between tenders. Models that compress or distort quality and price differences may be challenged.
• Timing: The CJEU ruled in case C-6/15 (Dimarso) that the evaluation model must, as a rule, be established before tenders are opened.

Tools like Cobrief can help suppliers understand which evaluation model applies in a given procurement, so they can tailor their bid accordingly.

The evaluation model is the bridge between the criteria a contracting authority sets and the result it reaches. A well-chosen model ensures that quality differences are captured fairly — and that the tender offering the best overall value actually wins.