What aspect does the evaluation and ranking phase focus on in the comparative selection process?

The evaluation and ranking phase in the comparative selection process primarily centers around the assessment of proposals or candidates based on established criteria. This phase is crucial because it ensures that all submissions are methodically reviewed, compared, and rated against one another to determine which option best meets the project's requirements and objectives.

Focusing on adopting a procedure for evaluations implies implementing a structured approach to systematically assess the merits of each candidate or proposal. This could involve formal scoring systems, evaluation matrices, and predefined criteria that align with the project's goals. Such procedures enhance objectivity and transparency, allowing decision-makers to clearly identify the strongest candidates based on the established parameters.

The other aspects mentioned, like explaining scopes and fees, conducting consultations with the client, and attending conferences with financial institutions, do not directly contribute to the process of evaluating and ranking submissions. Instead, these activities are more peripheral and relate to communication and preliminary engagement rather than the critical analysis and comparison necessary during the evaluation and ranking phase.