1. Best Practice
What are we looking for?

2. Our Aims Transparent and fair processes Value for Money
Good Quality Services that meet local needs
Support for the local economy
Inclusion of Social Value

3. Your First Step
Set up a matrix to determine the type of contract you would like to bid for
Consider:
Type of Contract
Value
Location
Contract duration

4. Do some work up front Register on the portals to receive alerts
Ensure you have your policies written and accessible
Prepare case studies
Prepare references – ensure they will respond to requests

5. Evaluation Criteria
Before beginning to respond check the evaluation criteria
Some are scored and some are pass/fail
Can you provide the evidence to back up your response

6. Criteria can cover… Credit Rating/Financials (Inc. minimum turnover)
Previous experience
Policies and Procedures
Environmental considerations
Industry specific detail
Staff/Personnel

7. Schedule your time
Do not underestimate how long each stage of the process will take
Consider who needs to be available and when
Give yourself plenty of time to upload your bid prior to the deadline

8. Process variations Not all tenders will be the same.
Understand the process for each tender
Check:
Word limit
Presentation
Procedure and deadline for asking questions

9. Provide all information requested
Use a checklist to ensure all referenced documents are returned
Read questions carefully and ensure all bullet points are covered
Do not make assumptions

10. Avoid Making hollow statements: We have competitive prices
We are the best in the market
We offer the best service
Only make a statement if you can provide evidence to back it up

11. Feedback
Incorporate any learnings from the feedback you received into your tender response process.

12. Your response should include:
Pricing
Details of the service you can provide
Examples of your ability to deliver
Added value – the “WOW” factor