Which contract method employs competitive bids and public openings of bids?

The chosen answer highlights the nature of the contract method that utilizes competitive bids along with public openings. In the case of sealed bidding, it involves the solicitation of bids from multiple contractors, which are submitted in a sealed format to maintain confidentiality until the designated opening time. The process promotes fairness and transparency, as all bids are opened publicly, allowing anyone present to witness the proceedings.

This method satisfies the requirements set out for a competitive procurement process, which is essential for government contracts. It ensures that all interested parties have an equal opportunity to bid, thereby fostering competitiveness and potentially leading to better prices for the contracting agency.

In contrast, the other options mentioned do not primarily focus on the same public bidding process. Negotiated contracts involve discussions and proposals instead of sealed bids, simplified acquisitions utilize a streamlined approach for smaller procurements, and two-step sealed bidding, while also competitive, is a more complex method not strictly defined as merely sealed bidding. Each of these alternative methods has its own specific rules and applications, which differ significantly from those governing sealed bids.