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What Is the Cascade Principle (Kaskadenprinzip, Germany)?
This is a German procurement term. The hierarchical application of the various rulebooks (GWB before VgV before VOB, and so on).
What is the Kaskadenprinzip?
The ordering of German procurement rules: the GWB sets the principles, the regulations such as the VgV add the procedures, and the VOB/A, VOL/A or UVgO add the detailed rules, each applying within the frame set by the level above.
Why does it matter?
Because rules at a lower level cannot contradict those above. If the VOB/A and the GWB differ, the GWB prevails.
Does it still apply?
Yes, above the EU thresholds. Below them, the structure is different, since the GWB does not apply.
