Industry engagement
Good engagement helps create better decisions by bringing the voices of stakeholders into the issues that are relevant to them.
In procurement, industry engagement helps government become a more informed buyer and supports better procurement outcomes. It also provides businesses with opportunities to showcase their capability, build relationships and understand government needs.
Why the government engages with industry
When done properly, industry engagement helps the government to:
- foster market participation and collaboration
- refine procurement requirements
- better understand market capability and supplier capacity
- identify and explore new and innovative ideas and solutions.
It also helps businesses to better understand the government’s drivers including encouraging healthy competition and encouraging innovation.
How government engages with industry
The government uses different approaches to industry engagement depending on the circumstances. Participating in industry engagement activities does not provide an advantage during a future procurement process. However, it does help suppliers understand government priorities, provide feedback and identify emerging opportunities.
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An RFI is a market research tool used to seek information and opinions from a broad range of stakeholders. Typically, an RFI seeks insights from industry that may relate to a range of issues or challenges government is facing about something it wants to buy.
An RFI does not indicate a commitment to purchase or proceed with a procurement.
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Agencies may meet with potential suppliers to discuss their needs and explore possible solutions.
Industry events allow businesses to meet with potential buyers. For example, SA Health’s Biennial Supplier Conference and the Industry Advocate's Meet the Buyer events.
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Government may use consultation platforms such as YourSAy to gather feedback from industry, stakeholders and the broader community when developing policies, programs or procurement-related initiatives.
Frequently asked questions
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Yes. An RFI is an opportunity for suppliers to share information about their products, services, capabilities and market insights. You do not need to intend to bid for any future procurement opportunity to participate.
Responding to an RFI can help government better understand the market and available solutions, while also giving suppliers an opportunity to increase awareness of their capabilities and provide feedback on proposed requirements.
Participating in an RFI does not create an obligation to submit a future bid, nor does it provide an advantage or guarantee that a future procurement opportunity will be released.