Dealing with Government is not the same as the private sector, and the process can appear difficult and time consuming, but the potential rewards can make it a worthwhile investment of time and resources.

Most tenders follow a similar process, although some of the steps can be more demanding for higher value tenders.

1. The Tender notice is issued - this is typically on one of a number of tender web sites, which are free to view.

2. The notice will advise of the date by which Expressions of Interest (EOI) must be received, and may provide details of sources for additional information. The EOI can be a simple letter or e-mail, or may require a detailed submission of company policies and procedures, these requirements are clearly defined in the notice.

3. On receipt of the EOI the tender board will select a number of companies to progress to the next stage, which is usually a Pre-Qualification Questionnaire (PQQ). This is typically a requirement for detailed information about the bidding companies, to confirm that they are financially sound and have the capability to deliver the products or services required.

4. Once the deadline for submission of the PQQ is reached, the tender board will review all of the PQQ's received and select a number of companies to participate in the tender itself. These companies will be sent a detailed tender document for completion.

5. Bidding companies complete the tender document and submit this to the tender board, within the specified timescale.

6. Once the deadline for tender submissions has passed the tender board convenes to review the offers against the criteria specified. At the end of this process they will provisionally award the contract to the best bidder.

7. There is then a period of time during which losing bidders can obtain feedback on their bids, and submit an objection if they feel the process has not been fair and equitable. Once this time has passed the contract is confirmed with the winning bidder.