ABSTRACT
When a contracting firm receives an 'invitation to tender' an assessment of its workload and ability to undertake the type and size of the proposed project is essential before an application is made for the contract documents. If the firm decides that it is in an unfavourable position, it could then decline the invitation. Unfortunately, it has been known for a contractor to apply for the tender documents with the intention of submitting a tender which is excessive on the assumption that it would fail but at the same time keep his/her options open for future invitations from the architect.
