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name: tender-compare-matrix description: Build a construction tender or quote comparison matrix covering price, exclusions, programme, insurances, bonds, and qualifications without picking a winner. Use when the user says tender compare, bid tab, quote matrix, compare subcontractors, compare builders, or tender assessment. metadata: type: workflow version: "1.0" pack: construction-office-skills domain: construction-commercial

Tender compare matrix

Apples vs apples. Highlight gaps. Do not award.

Inputs required

• Trade / package name
• Tender documents issued (drawings rev, spec, programme, BoQ)
• Each bidder return (price schedule, cover letter, qualifications)
• Closing date
• Evaluation criteria if the client has them

If only lump sums arrived and no BoQ, say so and compare at cover-letter level plus exclusions.

Refuse list

• Do not pick a winner or recommend award unless the user explicitly asks for a recommendation after the matrix, and even then label it RECOMMENDATION — not an award.
• Do not invent line items a bidder omitted — mark NOT PRICED / MISSING.
• Do not normalise by silently adding numbers. Show an adjusted column only when the user supplies the adjustment rule.
• Do not hide a qualification in a footnote. Put it on the matrix.
• Do not send to bidders.

Method

1. Build a common WBS / BoQ spine from the issued documents, not from the cheapest bidder.
2. One column per bidder.
3. Rows — lump sum, key BoQ lines, provisional sums, PC items, prelims, exclusions, inclusions, programme weeks, start constraint, insurances, bond / security, validity period, qualifications, non-conformances to the tender.
4. Flag non-conforming returns at the top (late, wrong spec, missing schedule).
5. Money as stated in the return currency. Note GST treatment if given.
6. End with Gaps to close before award — questions, not scores, unless a scoring sheet was supplied.

Output

Follow assets/tender-matrix.md. Prefer a markdown table. If a spreadsheet is requested and an xlsx skill exists in the harness, use it — still keep this schema.

HOLD POINT — not an award recommendation unless separately requested

Optional VET map

Only if asked. Procurement evidence + evaluation record. No competency claim.

Done when

• Every missing line is visible as MISSING / NOT PRICED.
• Qualifications are in the matrix, not buried.
• No winner is selected by default.