Yes, I would agree with the characterization that the bands had a negative impact on the price paid, meaning higher prices than necessary were probably paid.
Again, I think one of the distinctions one can draw is that the traditional band is the median plus 30 and the median minus 20, meaning that prices within that range are acceptable. In this situation, it was done differently and there was no justification provided. That's why you saw the recommendation you did in this area.