What, How, Why, When (WHWW)
As we step into 2024, it is the perfect time to revisit the fundamentals of bid writing. At BidVantage, we employ a structured methodology for every key point in our bid writing process: What, How, Why, When (WHWW). This approach ensures clarity and comprehensiveness in our proposals. Let us break down what this methodology entails and how you can apply it effectively.
What: Your specific approach or solution in response to the question. It is about clearly defining what you are offering or proposing as a solution to the client’s problem or need.
How: Detailing your method or process for implementing the proposed solution. This section should articulate the steps, resources, and strategies you will employ to deliver your solution effectively.
Why: A detailed exploration of the benefits to the client and end-users from your solution. This part should focus on the value proposition, explaining why your approach is beneficial and how it addresses the client's objectives.
When: Instances when you have successfully implemented similar solutions, reinforcing the credibility of your claims. This part provides evidence of your experience and success in similar contexts.
Now let us have a quick look at applying this in practice. Below we have an example question, and then the answer structured in the WHWW approach. Alongside each of the WHWW are introductory sentences and then prompts for further detail that would be required. We take this approach in our planning stage, ensuring that the answer is carefully structured and that we know what we need to develop the answer ready for first draft and onwards.
The question for the exercise is: "How would your organisation assist our city in reducing its carbon footprint and promoting sustainable energy usage?"
What: Our approach is based on three key pillars: clean energy technologies, energy conservation practices, and behavioural change through education and awareness initiatives.
Ideas for further detail: Do not assume full understanding from the evaluator – so provide short descriptions of what the three key pillars mean.
How: Introduce renewable energy systems, promote energy-saving practices, and implement educational programs for sustainable living.
Ideas for further detail: Clear descriptions of the details of each element and how they will be implemented – when, who by, any relevant technical details, and any relevant process diagrams.
Why: This approach will reduce the city's carbon footprint, promote sustainable habits, and ensure long-term environmental health.
Ideas for further detail: Quantifiable benefits if possible – e.g. what would the reduction be in the city’s carbon footprint? In addition, timelines for when these benefits may occur – e.g. long-term environmental health – is this 3, 5 or 10 years down the line?
When: Successful application in cities like [Insert Name], leading to lower energy consumption, increased use of renewables, and heightened public awareness.
Ideas for further detail: KPI performance, statistics, quotes, testimonials, etc – to provide clear evidence that your approach has been successful elsewhere. Do not just say it – prove it.
As you can see from the above, the WHWW approach gives a clear and logical structure to the answer, allowing an evaluator to follow a clear thread of easily understand and score your response. While flexibility is key, as every bid is unique, adopting this methodology cultivates good habits and a mindset for success in bid writing.
If you would like more information on our approach, or want to see it applied in practice, contact us today to ask how we can support you.