How to Write a Bid: A Simple Guide for Beginners – Part 2 Bid Development

Introduction

As we transition from the foundational stage of bid readiness to the more dynamic phase of bid development, it's important to resist the natural urge to dive straight into answering the questions presented in a Request for Proposal (RFP) or an Invitation to Tender (ITT). While this enthusiasm is commendable, it's crucial to recognise that bid development is a meticulous process that requires more than just responding to a set of requirements.

Preparation

Before putting pen to paper, five preparatory steps are essential to ensure a well-rounded and competitive proposal. These initial steps are critical in laying a solid foundation for a proposal that not only answers the questions but speaks directly to the client's unique challenges and how your organisation is uniquely positioned to solve them.

1.       Understand Client Needs:

• Deep dive into the client's underlying needs, beyond what's written in the RFP.

• Analyse the client's business environment, challenges, and goals and work out how are you going to solve their problem?

• Understand the scope, deliverables, and specific requirements of the buyer and the contract.

 2.       Align Proposal with Client Insights:

• Tailor your approach to directly address the client's specific requirements and expectations.

• Ensure your proposal is not just a generic response but a solution customised for the client.

3.       Develop Unique Differentiators:

• Identify and articulate what sets your offer apart from competitors.

• Highlight your organisation's unique strengths, capabilities, and past successes relevant to the bid.

4.       Assemble the Right Team:

• Gather a team with diverse skills – from technical expertise to creative writing.

• Ensure the team understands the bid's objectives and client's needs.

 5.       Strategic Planning:

• Develop a clear strategy outlining how to approach the bid, including timelines, roles, and responsibilities.

• Plan for addressing all aspects of the bid, including technical, financial, and logistical elements.

 Summary

In this blog we have explored the crucial transition from bid readiness to the more intricate phase of bid development. It emphasises that successful bid writing goes beyond merely answering an RFP or ITT. This stage demands a thorough understanding of the client's deeper needs and aligning your proposal to these insights, ensuring it's tailored and not generic. Go to the next blog in this series - How to Write a Bid: A Simple Guide for Beginners – Part 3 Bid Writing for tips on successful writing.