Which of the following is a technique to promote early exchanges of information?

Public hearings serve as an effective technique to promote early exchanges of information in the contracting process. These gatherings allow both the governmental agency and potential contractors to share insights, clarify requirements, and address concerns before formal bids are submitted. This open dialogue fosters transparency and encourages stakeholder participation, which can lead to a more informed bidding process and ultimately better outcomes for both parties.

In contrast, limiting dialogue with industry would restrict the flow of information and hinder collaboration, which is counterproductive to the goal of fostering communication. Extending proposal deadlines may provide more time for submission but does not inherently facilitate the exchange of information between parties. Issuing random amendments could lead to confusion and mistrust, as it might indicate a lack of clarity or stability in the procurement process. Thus, public hearings stand out as a proactive measure to create an environment of open communication and information sharing.