What Should Be Included in a Strong Method Statement for Tendering?

A strong method statement is a key document in many tender submissions. It outlines how a contractor or supplier plans to carry out the work safely, efficiently, and in line with the client’s requirements. Buyers rely on it to assess whether the bidder understands the project, can manage risks, and has the ability to deliver results.

In competitive procurement, a well-written method statement can make a significant difference. It gives evaluators confidence in the bidder’s approach, helping them visualise how the contract will be completed. In sectors such as construction, engineering, and facilities management, these documents are often heavily weighted during the scoring process.

Strong method statements are tailored, clear, and focused on the buyer’s expectations. They address specific delivery challenges, outline health and safety practices, and show how risks will be managed. When written well, they help position a bid as credible, competent, and ready to deliver.

What Is a Method Statement in Tendering?

A method statement in tendering is a written explanation of how a contractor or supplier will deliver the required works or services. It sets out the approach to completing the contract safely, efficiently, and to specification. Buyers use it to evaluate a bidder’s understanding of the project and ability to meet expectations.

Unlike a general project plan, a method statement focuses on practical implementation. It details how tasks will be carried out, who is responsible for each activity, and how risks will be controlled. The level of detail expected often depends on the size, complexity, and nature of the contract.

These documents are particularly important in sectors where safety, timing, and coordination are essential. Construction, highways, and facilities management contracts frequently require method statements to support quality and safety assessments. Public sector buyers may also include them as scored elements under technical or quality criteria.

A strong method statement shows clear planning, identifies potential issues, and provides assurance that the supplier can deliver the work safely and competently.

Key Elements Buyers Expect to See

To assess whether a supplier can safely and effectively deliver a contract, buyers set questions and look for clear, detailed method statements. These should be tailored to the project and demonstrate a practical understanding of the work involved. The most important elements typically include:

Health and Safety Approach

• Description of how site safety will be managed
  
• Reference to relevant legislation, such as CDM Regulations or HSE guidance
  
• Measures for staff training, PPE, supervision, and incident reporting

Delivery Plan

• Step-by-step outline of how the contract will be delivered
  
• Details of sequencing, timescales, and resource allocation
  
• Consideration of project-specific challenges or constraints

Risk Management

• Identification of potential risks relevant to the project
  
• Explanation of how each risk will be monitored and mitigated
  
• Contingency measures for common issues like delays or supply shortages

Quality Control

• Methods for ensuring consistent standards throughout delivery
  
• Systems for checking work, recording outcomes, and making corrections
  
• Any relevant accreditations or frameworks, such as ISO 9001
  

Including these elements in a clear and structured format helps buyers assess the credibility of the bid and its alignment with their project needs.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even well-qualified bidders can lose marks if their method statements are unclear or poorly presented. Avoiding common pitfalls is essential for producing a strong submission.

Generic or Copy-Pasted Content

• Using a one-size-fits-all statement that does not reflect the specific project
  
• Failing to address the unique requirements or priorities outlined in the tender

Overuse of Technical Jargon

• Relying on specialist terms without explanation
  
• Making it difficult for evaluators to understand the proposed approach

Lack of Detail

• Omitting timelines, resources, or named responsibilities
  
• Providing vague answers that offer little reassurance

Poor Structure and Formatting

• Submitting long blocks of unorganised text
  
• Failing to use headings, bullet points, or logical flow

Ignoring Evaluation Criteria

• Missing out key points listed in the scoring guidance
  
• Failing to align responses with the buyer’s objectives
  

Avoiding these mistakes can significantly improve the quality and impact of a method statement, making it easier for evaluators to score the submission highly.

Examples of Impactful Method Statements

Successful method statements are clear, relevant, and focused on the buyer’s priorities. They present detailed plans supported by evidence of capability and experience. The following examples illustrate effective approaches.

A facilities management contractor bidding for a school cleaning contract included a phased mobilisation plan. It covered recruitment, safeguarding checks, staff induction, and equipment delivery. Timelines were presented in a simple chart, and the health and safety section referred to COSHH procedures and training. The buyer awarded full marks for demonstrating both compliance and attention to operational detail.

In a highways maintenance tender, a supplier outlined how lane closures would be managed to minimise disruption. The strong method statement included a traffic management plan, night working schedules, and coordination with local authorities. Risks such as adverse weather and utility conflicts were addressed with clear contingency plans. The buyer praised the submission for its practical foresight.

Another winning example included quality assurance measures linked to KPIs. Daily checklists, supervisor sign-offs, and client feedback loops were included to show accountability throughout the contract term.

These examples share a common strength: they answer the buyer’s needs with clarity, structure, and relevant detail, rather than generic or overly technical language.

Supporting Stronger Tender Submissions Through Clear Method Statements

A clear and detailed method statement is vital for demonstrating a bidder’s ability to deliver contracts safely, efficiently, and to the required standard. Tailoring the document to the specific project ensures that key risks, delivery challenges, and quality controls are addressed. Such an approach builds trust with buyers and improves scoring potential.

For businesses seeking professional support in writing competitive tenders, Your Tender Team offers expert services designed to maximise success rates. Their experience and tailored approach help clients submit proposals that stand out and meet buyer expectations efficiently.