Supplier engagement is essential to allow the market to understand and prepare for developing requirements and this must be undertaken before the procurement process begins. Early engagement with the market can help a buyer understand the current and evolving market capacity, capability and maturity, and the opportunities and risks for sustainable outcomes before starting a procurement process. Market engagement can also be used to support information sharing, leading to innovative ideas. It can also help the buyer learn about the potential suppliers and their supply chains. This may be done by issuing a Request for Information or by organising market events where information can be gathered:
