- Alternative Offers

Alternative offers are proposals submitted by a contractor or supplier offering a different solution or approach than the basic specifications required in the tender documents. Alternative offers are an opportunity for participants to propose innovative techniques or execution methods that may be more efficient or cost-effective.

Components of Alternative Offers

1. Clarification of the Alternative Solution: A detailed description of the proposed solution or technique.
2. Justification: Explanation of why the alternative offer is more efficient or beneficial.
3. Economic Feasibility: An analysis showing the impact of the alternative offer on cost.
4. Alignment with Objectives: Ensuring the offer meets the basic requirements of the project.

Importance of Alternative Offers

1. Stimulating Innovation: Allows participants to present innovative ideas and solutions.
2. Achieving Savings: Could contribute to reducing the overall cost of the project.
3. Improving Quality: Presenting advanced technical solutions to enhance the quality of execution.
4. Flexibility in Execution: Provides the announcing entity with additional options to achieve the project goals.

How to Present Alternative Offers

1. Basic Compliance: Present an offer that meets the basic requirements before submitting the alternative.
2. Prepare a Separate Document: Include details of the alternative offer and an analysis of its benefits.
3. Compliance with Regulations: Ensure the alternative offer adheres to the general conditions of the tender.

Challenges Associated with Alternative Offers

1. Unclear Criteria: The announcing entity may not specify clear evaluation criteria for alternative offers.
2. Resistance to Change: The announcing entity may face difficulties in accepting new solutions.
3. Impact on Timeline: Evaluating alternative offers may take additional time.

Their Role in Tenders

• Provide an opportunity to compete based on creativity, not just price.
• Contribute to improving project efficiency by presenting advanced solutions.
• Enhance the announcing entity's flexibility in achieving its goals.

Alternative offers are considered an effective tool to stimulate innovation and achieve savings and quality in tenders.