Why ‘Planning > Management > Writing’ is the Winning Formula for Bids
When it comes to bid writing, jumping straight into the answers might feel tempting. After all, deadlines loom, and the clock is ticking. But here’s the truth: without the right structure in place, even the most beautifully written response can miss the mark.
That’s why at Bespoke Bids, we always follow one golden order: Planning > Management > Writing.
Step 1: Planning – Laying the Groundwork
Before a single word hits the page, we start by deconstructing the bid pack. We pull it apart, piece by piece, to understand exactly what’s required, aligning every potential response with the evaluation criteria and the specification.
We structure our approach using:
- The evaluation criteria as our blueprint
- Relevant, high-quality information from previous bids
- Our internal expertise to fill in strategic and technical gaps
From here, we create a bid plan that maps out each day’s tasks and milestones.
Information gathering? That’s totally up to you. We can do it by call, video call, or email – whatever works best for your schedule.
Step 2: Management – Keeping Everything on Track
Once the plan is in place, we move into structure review – making sure each question is answered in full, backed by strong evidence, and aligned to the criteria.
We use a deliverable tracker as our central bid management tool, giving us complete visibility over progress, responsibilities, and deadlines.
We also monitor the clarification messaging function on the tender portals, so we never miss important updates, changes, or extra information from the buyer.
At this stage, we write complete draft responses and share them with you for additional information, clarification, and feedback. This is your main opportunity to shape the narrative while we keep the process on track.
Step 3: Writing – Bringing It All Together
Only when the planning and management stages are rock-solid do we move into final writing and assembly.
Here, we:
- Finalise every response, polishing the language so it’s clear, persuasive, and on-brand
- Ensure all attachments, forms, and pricing documents are complete
- Conduct peer reviews for quality assurance
- Receive your sign-off before submission
This final step ensures nothing slips through the cracks – every element is ready, checked, and presented at its best.
Why This Order Works
Skipping planning or rushing management often leads to bids that are inconsistent or incomplete. By moving methodically from planning, to management, to writing, and using tools like our deliverable tracker and bid plan, we ensure:
- Every requirement is met in full
- Quality/technical questions are consistent, evidence-based, and persuasive
- You have multiple opportunities to review and refine
- The process is efficient, transparent, and stress-free
- No important clarifications or updates are missed
The result? A bid that’s not just finished – it’s competitive, compelling, and submission-ready.
If you’re ready to approach your next tender with this method, get in touch! Let’s make sure your bid is built on the right foundation from day one.
For more on making sure you’re “Bid Ready” click here
