Agencies must specify needs in a way that:

The choice that promotes competition is essential for ensuring that the procurement process is fair, open, and provides equal opportunities for a diverse set of vendors. When agencies specify their needs clearly and inclusively, it encourages a wider range of contractors to participate in the bidding process. This practice not only aids in obtaining better pricing and services but also enhances innovation as various suppliers bring unique solutions to meet the agency's requirements.

Ensuring that needs are articulated in a way that allows multiple vendors to compete on an even playing field fosters transparency and drives efficiencies in government spending. It helps governmental agencies to gather a broad spectrum of proposals which ultimately leads to better procurement outcomes effective in addressing the intended purpose.

In contrast, focusing solely on low-cost providers, excluding market research, or limiting competition to small businesses undermines the aim of a competitive marketplace. While small businesses can play a crucial role, restricting competition in these ways can lead to suboptimal outcomes, higher risks, and limited vendor diversity, which may not serve the agency's overall objectives effectively.