FREQENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs)
At BFV, we help businesses submit stronger, compliant tenders while keeping sensitive information fully secure. This FAQ answers common questions about our bid support services and the steps we take to protect your confidential data. Whether you’re new to tendering or looking to improve your win rate, you’ll find guidance here to help you succeed safely and efficiently.
Top 10 - Frequently Asked Question's.
1.
What does Beyond Face Value (BFV) do?
BFV is an independent tendering and procurement consultancy supporting businesses across the UK.
We help organisations unlock there internal potential, improve bid quality, strengthen compliance, and secure new contract opportunities by applying 20+ years of senior bid leadership experience across Infrastructure, Defence, FM, Technology and regulated sectors.
2.
What tendering services do you offer?
Our services include bid writing, tender review, end to end bid support, opportunity identification, compliance checking, storyboarding, quality response development, and advisory support for improving internal tendering processes.
3.
What makes BFV different from other bid and tendering consultants?
We combine proven big-industry experience (Defence, Nuclear, Infrastructure) with a highly personal service tailored to SMEs. Unlike larger consultancies, you work directly with a senior specialist who focuses on practical improvements, not generic templates.
4.
How much do your services cost?
We offer flexible pricing based on scope, urgency and complexity. SMEs often prefer fixed fee packages, while larger frameworks or long term support can be delivered on a day rate basis. We always provide clear pricing up front.
5.
Can you work with us if we already have an in-house bid team?
Absolutely. We can supplement your internal team with specialist writing, independent reviews or capacity support during peak workload periods.
6.
What are "Common Mistakes" Businesses Make in Public Sector Bids?
1. Failing to Understand the Requirements
One of the most common errors is submitting a bid without fully understanding the tender specifications. Public sector contracts often come with strict criteria and compliance requirements. Skipping a thorough review can result in immediate disqualification.
Tip: Read the tender documents carefully, highlight mandatory requirements, and create a checklist to ensure your submission meets all criteria.
2. Poorly Structured Bid Responses
Even if your business offers the right solution, an unorganized or unclear response can hurt your chances. Bids that are difficult to read or do not follow the required format are often rejected.
Tip: Follow the structure requested in the tender documents. Use headings, bullet points, and clear, concise language to make your submission easy to evaluate.
3. Ignoring Compliance and Legal Requirements
Compliance is critical in public sector procurement. Missing certifications, not meeting regulatory standards, or failing to provide necessary documentation can disqualify your bid immediately.
Tip: Check all legal, financial, and quality assurance requirements before submitting. Keep all certifications and supporting documents up-to-date.
4. Underestimating the Competition
Many SMEs focus solely on their strengths without considering competitors. Overlooking what other bidders might offer can lead to unrealistic pricing or proposals that fail to stand out.
Tip: Research similar suppliers and understand the market. Highlight your unique value proposition and competitive advantages.
5. Lack of Proof or Evidence
Public sector bodies want evidence of past performance, capability, and reliability. Generic claims without proof can weaken your bid significantly.
Tip: Include case studies, client references, metrics, and any certifications that demonstrate your capability and credibility.
Conclusion
Avoiding these common mistakes can significantly improve your chances of winning public sector contracts. Businesses that take the time to understand the requirements, structure their responses clearly, comply with regulations, research the competition, and provide evidence based claims are far more likely to succeed.
For expert guidance on tendering, bid writing, and procurement consultancy, contact BFV Ltd today to improve your bid success rate.
7.
How does BFV protect the confidentiality of client information?
All client data, tender documents and correspondence are handled in strict confidence. We follow secure data handling practices, use restricted storage, and ensure only authorised individuals have access to your materials.
8.
What information do you need from us to begin?
Typically: company background, previous experience, technical inputs, pricing details and any existing drafts. We can work with as much, or as little material as you have.
9.
Do you sign NDAs or confidentiality agreements?
Yes. We routinely sign NDAs and are happy to work under your organisation’s confidentiality terms to provide additional assurance.
10.
What are the first steps to working with BFV?
Get in touch for an initial discussion. We’ll review your goals, upcoming opportunities and identify the most effective way to strengthen your bidding capability.
