
The challenge of responding to calls for tender
Invitations to tender, whether for public or private contracts, often represent strategic opportunities for companies. However, responding effectively to a call for tenders is a complex task that requires a thorough understanding of documents such as the DPGF (Detail Quantitatif Estimatif), the DQE (Detail Quantitatif et Estimatif), the BPU (Bordereau des Prix Unitaires), and the CCTP (Cahier des Clauses Techniques Particulières).
The management of these elements, coupled with the analysis of the overall envelope and the client’s criteria, can quickly become tedious, particularly in sectors such as construction, medical device manufacturing or manufacturing industry. This is where a CPQ (Configure, Price, Quote) solution, combined with Artificial Intelligence (AI), can make all the difference.
What is a CPQ solution connected to AI?
CPQ is a tool for configuring complex offers, establishing accurate prices and rapidly generating sales proposals. When connected to AI technologies, it offers additional capabilities, such as:
- Automatic analysis of tender documents CPQ-IA tools use natural language processing (NLP) to rapidly analyze documents such as CCTP and BPU. Key terms, essential clauses and regulatory requirements are extracted and processed by rules engines that automatically guide bid configuration.
- Cost forecasting and optimization AI-based predictive models draw on historical data to accurately estimate costs. At the same time, CPQ workflows instantly compare these estimates with global budgets or envelopes. Multi-criteria optimization algorithms propose solutions aligned with buyers’ rating criteria.
- Generate compliant, customized documents CPQ’s dynamic templates automatically create quotations, DQEs and technical briefs. IA tools enrich these documents by generating content tailored to each customer, while guaranteeing compliance with technical and regulatory standards.
- Collaboration and validation Centralized data in a CPQ-IA portal facilitates collaboration between teams. Integrated workflows ensure that every change is validated in real time, while intelligent notifications reduce processing times.
The benefits of a CPQ solution connected to AI to respond to calls for tender
- Considerable time savings On average, an AI-connected CPQ solution reduces the time needed to prepare a response by 40%, not only by drastically reducing manual tasks, but also thanks to automated approval workflows and intelligent task prioritization.
- Error reduction CPQ validation engines and AI models automatically check data consistency and compliance with normative requirements, reducing errors by an average of 85%.
- Customization and compliance The adaptive rules engines integrated into CPQ-IA tools enable each offer to be customized while respecting the specific criteria of public or private purchasers, improving customer satisfaction by 25%.
- Improved conversion rates By combining the power of AI’s predictive algorithms with CPQ’s bid simulators, companies see a 30% increase in their success rates.
- Simplified collaboration Data centralization and intelligent notifications reduce the number of meetings required by 50%, allowing teams to focus on strategic issues.
Key sectors for the adoption of a CPQ solution coupled with AI
Construction
In the construction sector, invitations to tender involve complex projects such as public or private infrastructures. A CPQ-IA solution can efficiently manage voluminous documents such as BPUs and DPGFs, automating the extraction and analysis of essential information. In addition, it facilitates the configuration of bids, ensuring that proposals comply with the client’s requirements, while optimizing costs to meet strict budget envelopes.
Medical equipment manufacturing
In the medical industry, suppliers are often called upon to tender for sophisticated equipment for hospitals and clinics. A CPQ-IA solution enables them to configure customized bids that take account of complex technical specifications and regulatory constraints. It also helps to produce compliant documents, such as quotations and technical briefs, while meeting tight deadlines.
Manufacturing industry
For manufacturers, whether it’s for mass production or custom orders, invitations to tender involve a wide variety of requirements and precise specifications. CPQ-IA tools help manage these variations by proposing configurations tailored to each customer. Automated workflows guarantee rapid validation of proposals, reducing the sales cycle.
Engineering and consulting services
Tenders in this sector are often highly technical and include complex selection criteria. A CPQ-IA solution can analyze these criteria to help prioritize bid strengths. In addition, it generates technical briefs and tailored proposals that respond directly to the client’s expectations, thus increasing the chances of success.
Pairing AI with CPQ, the Key to Winning Tenders
For companies wishing to respond effectively to calls for tender, the integration of a CPQ solution connected to AI is an undeniable asset. It not only simplifies and accelerates processes, but also improves the accuracy and quality of proposals. Whether you’re a construction company, a medical device manufacturer or a service provider, adopting this solution could well transform the way you conquer new markets.
Would you like to find out more?
Contact ITCelerator, specialists in CPQ and Artificial Intelligence solutions, to find out how our tools can help you win your next tender.