Glossary term
Technical Query (TQ)
A written technical question raised by a bidder or evaluator that needs a formal answer before an offer can be completed or accepted.
Last reviewed by the OdysseyGPT team
What it is
A technical query (TQ) is a numbered written question, raised by a bidder or evaluator, that resolves an unclear, conflicting or missing technical requirement before an offer is finalised or accepted.
Key Takeaways
- Bidders raise TQs before submission; evaluators raise them during TBE.
- Each TQ cites the documents and clauses involved.
- Check the instructions to bidders for how answers are incorporated.
Why it matters
A technical query (TQ) is used when a requirement is unclear, two documents conflict, or an offer needs more evidence. Tenders also call these technical clarifications or pre-bid technical queries. Bidders raise TQs during the tender period to ask which requirement applies; evaluators raise them during technical bid evaluation to ask a bidder to confirm, explain or change part of its offer. Each TQ is typically numbered, cites the document, clause and page, and is answered in writing. Whether the answers become part of the contract depends on the tender's instructions to bidders. A TQ is a question; a deviation is a declared exception to a requirement.
How OdysseyGPT uses it
OdysseyGPT marks requirements it cannot settle against the manufacturer's datasheets as clarification or not addressed, with a quote and page from the source document, which helps an engineer write a precise TQ. Deciding whether to raise the query, and its wording, stays with the engineer.
Evaluation questions
What makes a good TQ?
One question per TQ, the exact clauses quoted by reference, and a proposed answer the other side can simply confirm.
Do TQ answers change the specification?
They can clarify or modify it for that tender. Check the instructions to bidders for how TQ answers are incorporated.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a TQ and a deviation?
A TQ asks a question and waits for an answer. A deviation states that the offer does not meet a requirement and explains why.
When should a bidder raise a TQ?
When requirements conflict, a value is missing, or the order of precedence between documents is unclear, ideally before the tender's query deadline.
References
Pre-bid query format citing document, clause and page
TP Southern Odisha Distribution
Tender clarification
Supplier Journey (Scottish Government)