First send every comparable candidate the same archive summary, use schedule and evidence request. Allow confidential review, redaction or alternative corroboration where disclosure restrictions are legitimate. Set a response date agreed with the actual decision timetable; do not claim a universal market turnaround.
Have commercial, legal, technical and finance reviewers score their relevant criteria independently, then reconcile differences by evidence. Save both the disagreement and its resolution. Give candidates an opportunity to correct factual mistakes before a decision record is finalised.
Disclose any supplier, referral or ownership relationships that could affect the assessment. Request written disclosure of the actual relationship before relying on an assessment. A paid relationship must not purchase a higher evidence rating.
The final recommendation should state: intended mandate, result and coverage, stop gates, strongest supporting evidence, three unresolved conditions, alternatives, cost of the next step and the person accountable for approval.