Free agency planning tool

Should your agency bid for this tender?

Use six evidence checks to structure a first discussion before spending time on a response. Keep the official document pack open alongside this tool. A negative answer identifies a blocker; an uncertain answer identifies research still to do.

Add evidence below, then download a review for your team. No account required.

1. The opportunity is open and the submission route is clear

Check the latest official notice, amendments and buyer’s submission portal. An old search result is not enough.

2. We can evidence every mandatory eligibility requirement

Record the relevant document sections for references, turnover, insurance, certifications and any geographic restrictions. Resolve uncertainties with the buyer.

3. We can deliver all mandatory work through a permitted model

Include less visible work such as research, content migration, media buying, integrations, hosting or fabrication. Verify whether partners are allowed.

4. We have capacity for the bid and the delivery timetable

Include internal sign-off, recruitment of partners, clarification deadlines, testing, buyer reviews and mobilisation.

5. The budget and contractual terms are workable

Separate fees from media or production spend, check VAT and extensions, and understand whether any volume is guaranteed.

6. We have relevant case studies against the evaluation criteria

Match complexity and responsibilities, not just the client’s sector. Identify who delivered each part and which results can be substantiated.

Use a decision gate, not a winning percentage

This checklist does not calculate a probability of winning. An attractive brand or budget cannot compensate for a mandatory requirement your agency cannot meet. Start with the practical constraints, then review strategic value, bid effort and the quality of your evidence. Where the documents are unclear, ask through the official clarification route before the relevant deadline.

Make the team discussion concrete

For every “yes”, keep a note of the supporting document section, reference or capacity commitment in your own bid file. For every “no” or “not sure”, name an owner and the date a resolution is needed. Read the service-specific guides for additional checks on website builds, branding and marketing contracts.

A shortlist with a reason

Spend your time on the right briefs.

Request the free NoticeSift pilot for opportunities matched to your agency’s services and demonstrable experience. We check the official notice, deadline, budget basis and essential work before sharing a match. No payment or subscription during the pilot.

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Assessing a campaign budget? Separate agency fees from media spend with the budget worksheet.

Official UK tender portalsWhich notice types can you bid for?Free bid / no-bid checklist