Use of Brand Names
2.20 Specifications shall be based on relevant characteristics and/or performance requirements. References to brand names, catalog numbers, or similar classifications shall be avoided. If it is necessary to quote a brand name or catalog number of a particular manufacturer to clarify an otherwise incomplete specification, the words “or equivalent” shall be added after such reference. The specification shall permit the acceptance of offers for goods which have similar characteristics and which provide performance at least substantially equivalent to those specified. Before the Borrower issues bidding documents for specific goods with a brand name that does not have any equivalent, especially for Information Technology Systems, it shall submit to the Bank for review and no objection a comprehensive justification, including grounds of compatibility with existing systems and previous investments in the branded item.