Guideline 5.9 - Other RFT requirements

Preferably each RFT should include a proposal "shell" clearly delineating the requirement for submitting a conforming tender, including:

1. A numbered listing of all questions and aspects to be described in the tender, and
2. A form for submitting contract price proposals.

Each RFT should also include:

1. A proposed schedule for the tendering process, including contract award and contract commencement dates.
2. A statement as to the procedure that will be followed if only one conforming tender is received.

Each RFT also has to specify how variations to the size of the project will be handled.Variations should not unreasonably change the scope of the work. Transfund New Zealand considers that variations of up to plus 100% of the initial contract cost may be justified in certain circumstances without unreasonably changing the scope of the contract.

Bonds serve no useful purpose in professional services contracts and should not be required. The specification of bonds can act as a barrier to competition and deter some otherwise capable consultants from participating in the tender.