ABSTRACT
A well-considered and appropriate procurement strategy together with a clear, robust and unambiguous tender document is the key to avoiding or minimising contractual problems at a later date. The tender documentation should also make clear the period over which a tender may remain open for acceptance. This would normally be 3 months, giving the Client time to assess the tenders and make the appropriate award. Clients representatives have no authority to accept tenders, as ultimately the contract is between the Client and the Contractor, so it is normal to recommend a choice to the Client with him making the final decision and informing the tenderers accordingly. It is important that close relationships are encouraged between the client and the contractor, and in turn its subcontractors for the survival of both parties in the long term. It is critical that clients properly identify what information should be contained in the tender enquiry to contractors.
