Preparing the published article.
Writing Technical Specifications in a Tender
Write function and performance, not one brand.
Principles
- Describe what the system must achieve, not one manufacturer's model number.
- State limits with ≥ or ≤, and say how they will be verified.
- Keep mandatory items to the ones that genuinely matter.
- Attach the acceptance protocol to the specification.
Common specification failures
| Failure | Consequence |
|---|---|
| Copying a vendor datasheet | Only one supplier can respond |
| Vague performance words | Bids cannot be compared |
| No acceptance method | Disputes at commissioning |
| Too many starred requirements | Too few valid bids |