PQQs / SQs should not be rushed. If you take the time to complete them fully then you give your organisation the best opportunity to be shortlisted and invited to tender (ITT).
Read the PQQ Carefully Before Putting Pen to Paper
Be absolutely clear that you understand the brief by reading the PQQ carefully. If there is any ambiguity regarding the requirements, it is perfectly acceptable to seek clarification. The PQQ should provide detail on who to speak to, and by what method at this stage.
First Impressions Count
A PQQ submission can be let down by poor attention to detail. When completing the PQQ ensure there are no spelling mistakes or grammatical errors. Present the information in a format that is as accessible as possible. For the Narrative elements of the PQQ make sure you hit the word counts (never exceed them) and present the information in a style that pulls out the key points; bullet points are helpful, as is highlighting important concepts.
Ensure Supporting Documents are Up-To-Date
Supporting evidence is only relevant if it is in date and in line within current legislation. If your policies are old fashioned, out of date or irrelevant, they will not be positively received by the Buyer. Within your answers ensure that you fully reference supporting documents within your PQQ submission to make it easy for the Buyer to locate evidence that authenticates your claims. An appendix (if accepted by the awarding organisation) can help ensure that your supporting evidence is easy to find and accessible.
Use the PQQ to Reinforce the Merits of your Company
Much of the PQQ will be in the format of tick boxes and will be numerical or data-driven. But there is usually an element that is dedicated to narrative, such as client testimonials or case studies. It’s important that where there is the opportunity to exemplify your achievements, USPs and outstanding areas of your business that you do this professionally and succinctly. A bid writer can take key information and support you to take your submission from ordinary to outstanding.
Satisfy all the Requirements
It may sound simple, but make sure that you have fully completed the PQQ. If you fail to complete just one component of the PQQ it’s entirely possible that your whole application will be rejected. So even if the question isn’t relevant to your organisation, use ‘N/A’ to ensure that the Buyer doesn’t erroneously conclude that you didn’t concern yourself to fully complete the PQQ in its entirety.
Remember, PQQs are designed to save Buyers time – they will not contact you to seek verification or highlight missing content, you’ll simply be withdrawn from the process.