Which boundaries create the most useful questions?
Use the tender's actual systems and parties. The categories below are review prompts, not assumed omissions.
| Boundary | Check | Possible output |
|---|---|---|
| Supply to install | Who purchases, receives and stores equipment? | Responsibility row |
| Install to energise | Who terminates, tests and obtains access? | Interface row |
| Controls to power | Who provides interlocks and points lists? | Clarification |
| Construction to handover | Who supplies records, training and spares? | Returnable action |
How should drawings and specifications be compared?
List equipment and connections shown on the single line diagram, layouts and schedules. Compare those items with the written scope and technical specification. A mismatch becomes a review item with both sources attached, not an automatic inclusion or exclusion.
- Equipment shown but not described
- Requirement described but not drawn
- Different tags or ratings across documents
- Interface location not defined
- Testing responsibility not assigned
When does a scope gap become a clarification?
Raise a clarification when the missing information can materially change design, quantity, programme, price or risk. Keep any interim estimating assumption beside the question so the team can update the bid when a response arrives.
| Observed gap | Interim action | Closure |
|---|---|---|
| Cable route limit unclear | Measure to nominated boundary only | Client confirms boundary |
| Protection study owner absent | Carry as open responsibility | Responsibility assigned |
| Testing form not supplied | List required evidence | Template issued |
Common questions
What else should the bid team know?
Is an omission always excluded from the bid?
No. The bid team must decide the position after reviewing the scope, contract and risk. The gap register makes that decision visible.
Should drawings override the specification?
Do not assume precedence. Record the conflict and review the contract's stated order of precedence with the appropriate adviser.
Who closes a technical scope gap?
The responsible engineer or project specialist should approve the technical position. The bid team controls its effect on the submission.
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