Overview of the Steps in Tendering

The tendering process can take anything from a week to over a year depending on the nature and scale of the procurement. It can help to view the process as a series of stepping stones. The following steps usually apply:

  • Identify a public sector market
  • Identify the route to this market, that is:
  • in-house tender list – find out the process to ensure you are on the list
  • advertisement – find out when and where advertisements will appear
  • OJEC – find out possible date for notice in this important journal
  • Respond accordingly
  • Identify a particular contract
  • Seek tender documentation
  • Analyse requirements of tender:
  • Closing Date
  • Specifications/Terms of Reference
  • Criteria for Award of Contract
  • Administrative details such as labels, forms for completion, etc.
  • Do out a check-list of all requirements
  • Prepare tender against check-list
  • Sign tender
  • Send tender to ensure it arrives before the official closing date – remember “late tenders will not be accepted” or opened?
  • If you win, ensure you meet and even exceed the expectations of the public body.
  • If you are unsuccessful seek a debriefing on where your tender fell down.

« BACK