PQQ Tips: Bid Writing Support Services
Are you a supplier in the UK who wants to bid for government contracts and frameworks? If so, you will need to complete a pre-qualification questionnaire (PQQ) or a selection questionnaire (SQ) as part of the procurement process. These documents ask you to provide information about your company, such as its financial status, technical capabilities, quality standards, environmental policies, social value, and previous experience. The buyer uses this information to assess your suitability and eligibility for the contract and to shortlist the most qualified suppliers for the next stage of the tender.
Completing a PQQ or SQ can be challenging and time-consuming, especially if you are not familiar with the requirements and expectations of the buyer. You need to demonstrate that you meet the minimum criteria and that you can deliver the contract effectively and efficiently. You also need to stand out from your competitors and showcase your unique selling points and added value. To help you with this task, we have compiled some tips that will guide you through the process and increase your chances of success. We also offer a PQQ Supplier Completion Service as part of our bid writing services, where we can assist you with writing, reviewing, and submitting your tender application professionally and on time.
You may also like our Simple Guide to Completing a PQQ. The PQQ and SQ is being replaced by Procurement Specific Questionnaire (PSQ) as part of the Procurement Act for public sector opportunities.
5 PQQ Writing Tips for Public Sector Suppliers
- Tip 1: Read the document carefully and ask for clarification. Before you start writing your answers, make sure you understand the scope and objectives of the contract, the instructions and specifications of the application, and the evaluation criteria and scoring method. If you have any doubts or queries, contact the buyer and request clarification. Most buyers will offer a period of time where you can ask questions and receive feedback. This will help you avoid any misunderstandings or mistakes that could affect your score or disqualify you from the tender.
- Tip 2: Identify the evaluated and informational questions. A PQQ or SQ will consist of different types of questions, some of which are for information only and some of which are evaluated and scored. Informational questions are usually about your company details, such as your name, address, registration number, insurance, and turnover. Evaluated questions are usually about your company's policies, procedures, processes, and performance, such as your quality management, health and safety, environmental management, social value, and relevant experience. You need to know which questions are evaluated and which are not, so that you can allocate your time and resources accordingly and focus on the ones that will affect your score.
- Tip 3: Answer each question fully and accurately. When you write your answers, make sure you address all the aspects and requirements of the question, and provide sufficient detail and evidence to support your claims. Do not assume that the buyer knows anything about your company or your industry, even if you have worked with them before. Provide clear and concise information that demonstrates your capabilities and suitability for the contract. Use facts, figures, statistics, case studies, testimonials, or any other relevant evidence that can prove your track record and achievements.
- Tip 4: Structure your answers with headings and sub-headings. A well-structured answer will make your response more readable and persuasive, as well as easier for you to write. Use headings and sub-headings to break up your text and to highlight the key points and messages. This will help the buyer to follow your logic and to find the information they are looking for. For example, if a question asks you how you manage sub-contractors, you could use headings such as "Sub-contractor selection", "Sub-contractor monitoring", and "Sub-contractor feedback" to organise your answer.
- Tip 5: Use our PQQ Supplier Completion Service. If you need professional help with your application, you can use our PQQ Supplier Completion Service, which is part of our bid writing services. We have a team of experienced and qualified bid writers who can assist you with any aspect of your application, such as writing, editing, proofreading, formatting, and submitting. We can also provide you with advice, feedback, and best practices to improve your bid strategy and quality. We have a proven track record of helping suppliers win government contracts and frameworks across various sectors and industries. Contact us today to find out how we can help you with your application.
