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A Go / No-Go decision determines whether the company should invest time and cost in a bid. Tender helps organize evidence, scoring, and gaps, but it does not replace the judgment of an authorized human decision-maker.

Decision dimensions

Scores and blockers

A score helps compare opportunities. A blocker stops the decision even when the score is high. Examples include a mandatory certificate that cannot be obtained in time, an unacceptable term without an approved exception, unavailable guarantee capacity, a conflict of interest, or an unrealistic delivery or bid deadline.
Distinguish between missing information and non-compliance. Missing information needs an owner and due date. Non-compliance needs remediation, an authorized exception, or a No-Go decision.

Decision workflow

1

Verify the source and documents

Do not assess an opportunity whose core facts or latest documents are still uncertain.
2

Review fit and evidence

Confirm that each score is supported by company data, tender text, or a documented assumption.
3

Resolve addressable gaps

Assign an owner and date for each question, document, partner, or clarification.
4

Record blockers and exceptions

State the impact and the person authorized to approve an exception.
5

Record the recommendation

Choose Go or No-Go with a concise, reviewable rationale.
6

Request approval

Route the decision to Approvals when required by company policy.

Write a useful rationale

Good Go rationale: “High technical fit, three evidenced similar projects, required classification available, and expected margin within the approved range. Finance must still approve the bid bond.” Good No-Go rationale: “Mandatory OEM authorization cannot be obtained before closing, and no approved partner can satisfy the condition.” Avoid rationales such as “looks good” or “not suitable.” They are not actionable or auditable.
AI-generated recommendations can be incomplete or wrong. Review the official tender documents, company evidence, and approval authority before committing resources or money.

Next: build the proposal

Use the approved Go decision and reviewed requirements to prepare technical and commercial responses.