I admit, I probably used a bit stronger words than warranted, but this is entirely due to the frustration on the constant state of public IT procurement failure

I admit, I probably used a bit stronger words than warranted, but this is entirely due to the frustration on the constant state of public IT procurement failure in the country. Anyway, I'm quite well aware how the RFQ process works. The problem is that even though the idea works well, it is still very easy to write your requirements so that your preferred vendor gets the deal. This is sort of in line with the classic Stalin quote: I consider it completely unimportant who in the party will vote, or how; but what is extraordinarily important is this—who will count the votes, and how. Also, I find it curious that the city is even allowed to get into deals that deny them public accountability. This might be a great strategy for a politician: if you screw up, lock the details behind a similar deal, only to be opened after the next elections.