Giving feedback on a failed bid
29 August 2012
Q: I work for a government department. We have just completed a formal tender process for a security X-ray machine and related services. One of the firms we rejected has asked for our reasons. What feedback should we provide to unsuccessful bidders?
A: Stephen Ashcroft, business consultant at Brian Farrington, writes: Constructive feedback is helpful to a potential supplier. You will be more confident about providing a debrief if the tendering process has been rigorous and disciplined. You should consider the following questions about the tender analysis: