Glossary
Tender Writing Glossary for New Zealand Businesses
Whether you're new to tendering or looking to brush up on your terminology, our glossary is here to help. We've grouped key terms into categories so you can find what you need quickly and easily. All definitions are beginner-friendly and tailored for the New Zealand tendering environment.
RFP (Request for Proposal)
A formal document issued by a buyer asking suppliers to propose how they would deliver a service or product.
RFQ (Request for Quote)
A request for suppliers to provide pricing for specific goods or services.
EOI (Expression of Interest)
Used to gauge interest from suppliers before a formal tender process begins.
GETS (Government Electronic Tender Service)
New Zealand government’s online platform for advertising public sector tenders.
Find out more on our GETs page.
Procurement
The process of buying goods or services, usually through a structured tender process.
Tender Response
Your written submission responding to the buyer’s request, explaining how you will deliver the work.
Methodology
A detailed explanation of how you will deliver the project or service.
Scope of Works
A breakdown of the specific tasks or services the contract will cover.
Win Themes
Key messages that show why your company is the best choice.
Key Personnel
Staff members who will deliver the contract, including qualifications and experience.
Value Proposition
What makes your business stand out from the competition.
Evaluation Criteria
The scoring system the buyer will use to assess your tender.
Compliance
Meeting all the mandatory requirements of the tender.
Weighted Scoring
When some parts of the tender are worth more than others (e.g., price 40%, methodology 60%).
Mandatory Requirements
Essential conditions that must be met. Missing these could disqualify your bid.
Non-Conforming Tender
A bid that doesn’t meet all requirements and may be excluded from evaluation.
Schedule of Prices
A breakdown of your pricing for delivering the contract.
Fixed Price Contract
A contract with a set price that doesn’t change.
Contingency Plan
A backup plan to manage risks or unexpected events.
Subcontractor
Another business you bring in to help deliver the work.
Contract Term
How long the contract will last.
Health and Safety Plan
How you will keep people safe while doing the work.
Quality Assurance
Processes to ensure high-quality, consistent delivery.
Risk Management Plan
Identifies potential risks and how you will manage them.
Environmental Management
How you will reduce your environmental impact during the contract.