Build a comparison around the brief
Use the same site list, project stage, requested output and timeframe for each provider. Record whether each proposal includes document review, site work, meetings, reporting and follow-up. Where a line is unclear, request clarification rather than scoring it as included.
Check who performs the work
Ask for the named people, proposed roles and relevant experience or registration evidence where applicable. Check the exact registration category and current status with the issuing body. An organisation logo or a general capability statement does not identify the practitioner allocated to your assignment.
Illustrative difference that affects value
Proposal A includes an initial inspection and a report. Proposal B also includes one agreed follow-up review. Their total prices cannot be compared as though the outputs are identical. Ask whether the second visit is needed for your decision and whether it is conditional on the client completing actions.
Resolve commercial assumptions
Compare travel, site access, meetings, revision limits, taxes, cancellation terms and the process for additional work. Keep unresolved items in the comparison. Do not invent market rates or treat the lowest total as evidence that an offer is suitable.
Compare the evidence
| Field | What to record |
|---|---|
| Scope | Included sites, activities and stages |
| People | Named role and verification reference |
| Deliverables | Format, review rounds and follow-up |
| Cost | Quoted basis, exclusions and taxes |
| Change | How additional work is authorised |