What evidence should you include to support your tender bid?

Submitting a tender is a critical process for many businesses seeking new or renewed contracts, and it requires meticulous preparation and a strategic approach. A well-crafted tender submission can be the difference between winning and losing a contract, and one of the most crucial aspects of a tender is the evidence you include to support your proposal. This evidence demonstrates your capability, reliability, and suitability for the project. Here are key types of evidence to consider - they may not be relevant to every tender, but they are fairly common across most of the tenders that I work on:

A man investigating with a magnifying glass

Your Credentials and Experience

Your company’s credentials and experience are foundational elements of your tender submission. This includes:

  1. Including a detailed overview of your company, including history, mission, vision, and values.

  2. Highlighting relevant projects you have completed by focussing on projects similar in scope and complexity to the tender you are bidding for.

  3. Providing case studies that showcase successful outcomes, particularly those relevant to the tender requirements.

Your Technical Capability and Resources

Demonstrating your technical capability and the resources at your disposal is essential. Include:

  1. Information about your team’s qualifications, certifications, and expertise in the relevant field.

  2. Details about the tools, technology, and facilities you have to execute the project.

  3. Highlight any innovative approaches or technologies you plan to utilise that differentiate your bid.

Your Financial Stability

Financial stability is a key concern for many tender issuers, as it assures them that you can complete the project without financial difficulties. You could include:

  1. Audited financial statements for the past three to five years, if requested by the tender issuer.

  2. Any credit ratings from recognised agencies.

  3. Letters from your bank attesting to your financial health.

Health, Safety, and Environmental Policies

Health, safety, and environmental considerations are increasingly important in tender evaluations, so if requested make sure you provide:

  1. Copies of your health, safety, and environmental policies, procedures and manuals.

  2. Any relevant certifications such as ISO 14001 for environmental management or ISO 45001 for occupational health and safety.

  3. Records of past incidents and your approach to managing and mitigating such risks.

Quality Assurance

Quality assurance demonstrates your commitment to delivering high standards. Include:

  1. Information about your quality management systems, such as ISO 9001 certification.

  2. Detailed descriptions of your processes and procedures for ensuring quality.

  3. Testimonials from previous clients that attest to your high-quality deliverables.

References and Testimonials

References and testimonials from previous clients can significantly bolster your submission. Include:

  1. Contact details of clients who can provide positive feedback on your work.

  2. Letters or statements from satisfied clients highlighting your performance and reliability.

  3. Any industry awards or recognitions that acknowledge your excellence.

Risk Management Plans

Risk management is crucial to project success. Include:

  1. A detailed risk assessment specific to the project you are bidding for.

  2. Clear strategies for mitigating identified risks.

  3. Well-defined contingency plans for potential issues that could arise during the project.

Compliance with Requirements

Ensure your submission complies with all the tender requirements. Include:

  1. A matrix or checklist showing how you meet each requirement of the tender.

  2. Evidence of your compliance with relevant laws and regulations.

  3. If required, include a bid bond or guarantee as specified in the tender documents.

Make it Comprehensive and Make if Relevant

Including comprehensive, relevant evidence in your tender submission not only strengthens your proposal but also builds trust with the client. By meticulously compiling and presenting your credentials, technical capabilities, financial stability, and more, you position your company as a reliable and capable partner for the project. Remember, the goal is to provide clear, concise, and compelling evidence that you are the best choice for the job.

By paying attention to these details and ensuring all evidence is well-documented and presented, you enhance your chances of securing the tender and successfully delivering the project.

If you need a hand with your tender from a professional tender writer, I’m here to help - just call me on 0400 514 579 or shoot an email to pauline@tenderwise.com.au for a completely obligation-free chat.