What does an ITP control?
An ITP is planned before the work or test. It connects the source requirement to the method, responsible party, witness or hold point, acceptance criterion and record to be completed.
| Item | ITP | ITC or completed record |
|---|---|---|
| Timing | Before the activity | During or after the activity |
| Purpose | Plan control and evidence | Record what happened |
| Content | Method and criterion | Observed result and sign-off |
| Status | Ready for approval | Complete, open or rejected |
Why do project definitions matter?
Some projects use ITC for a checklist, certificate or inspection record. The acronym alone does not establish a contract obligation. Check the project quality plan, specification and forms before naming the deliverable.
Sources: UK Cabinet Office: The Construction Playbook, Acquisition.gov: FAR Part 15: Contracting by Negotiation
What should the bid team ask for?
Ask for the required form, source criterion, witness rules, responsible reviewer and evidence location. If no form is supplied, propose an internal structure and label it as a working template.
- Exact project terminology
- Required inspection stages
- Acceptance authority
- Record and retention rules
- Action when a result is not acceptable
Common questions
What else should the bid team know?
Can a template replace the issued tender instructions?
No. The issued tender and its addenda control the required format, channel and deadline. Use a template as an internal control only.
Who approves the final bid position?
The bid team assigns technical, commercial and legal review to the appropriate people. A document register or checklist does not provide that approval.
What happens when the source documents conflict?
Keep both references visible, record the conflict and raise a clarification or internal review action. Do not silently choose one document.
Primary sources
- Commonwealth Procurement RulesAustralian Government Department of Finance
- Additional rules: request documentationAustralian Government Department of Finance
- The Construction PlaybookUK Cabinet Office
- FAR Part 15: Contracting by NegotiationAcquisition.gov