Requesting a quote for a Capability Improvement Grant project
Getting a proposal and quote
Identify a consultant with the expertise to help you implement the business improvements you wish to make.
Ask the consultant to provide a formal proposal and quote. You will need to include these in your Capability Improvement Grant application form.
The consultant's proposal must align with a recommendation in your CDIC report.
When seeking proposals you should describe your project's scope, including:
- the purpose of the project
- tasks
- expected project outcomes
Consider the consultant's role and how you will make the most of their expertise. You may wish to ask for references or examples of their work.
Evaluating a proposal and quote
Will the consultant provide you value for money and deliver the project on time and on budget? Here’s some things to consider when evaluating their proposal and quote.
Quality
Consider if the consultant has gone to some effort to prepare the proposal and quote.
Content
Check that the proposal and quote:
- address your needs as outlined in your CDIC report
- set out the expected outcomes and deliverables
Methodology
Consider whether the consultant's proposed approach is feasible. Is there a reference to previous, similar work?
References
Ask the consultant to provide contact details for previous clients. Contact them to verify the consultant's previous work.
Suitability of project personnel
Ensure you and the people who will do the work are willing and able to work together.
If the consultant plans to subcontract the project, check that the people who will be working with you have the necessary expertise.
Affiliations
Check if the consultant is a member of any professional associations, such as the:
- Australian Institute of Management
- Institute of Management Consultants
- Australian Institute of Training and Development
Timing
Ensure the timeframe is realistic and achievable for you and your business.
Price
Don’t immediately discard proposals and quotes on price alone. Sometimes a higher price may deliver better outcomes. There may be room for negotiation on a very good, but highly-priced proposal and quote.
Engaging a consultant
When you engage a service provider you enter into a commercial agreement. This agreement may be expressed either through the terms of reference or through the consultant’s proposal and quote. The agreement should identify the project's:
- key roles
- tasks
- responsibilities
- costs
- timing
If you're not sure about finding the right consultant, talk to your business adviser or facilitator.
We use cookies to give you a better experience on our website. Learn more about how we use cookies and how you can select your preferences.