The favorite: An ethical problem in procurement

THE ACCEPTED METHOD of purchasing engineering equipment is by competitive bidding. The problem presented here is the problem of the favorite. Let us assume that for one reason or another we have settled on a favorite supplier of synchronous motors. We are convinced that this is the right and the only equipment to recommend. We are now faced with several ethical questions, such as: How can we justify our position and avoid taking competitive bids? If we have taken this position, do we have a right to ask for competitive bids? If we are forced to ask for competitive bids, should we arrange to purchase our favorite product by devious means?