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<font size=3>Colleagues:<br><br>
Of course, this dilemma has probably existed since the Romans bid on the
first chariot. You need to present a design to the client to prove
you have a plan in order to sell the job, but you can not prevent the
client from using your design to shop contractors. There is not a
lot you can do about this. I let these clients go without much
regret. If the client does not understand the ethics involved, or
is not ethical, I'd just as soon not work for them.<br><br>
It is a fine line on what documentation you present to the client.
We try to be generic during bidding and vert specific during
contracting. Once the client is ready to sign a contract, we want
it made clear exactly where the modules will be installed and specify any
exclusions.<br><br>
This discussion got me thinking about the cast iron pipe top-of-pole
mount problem discussed here recently. Someone suggested smashing
the customer's pipe and someone else wanted to tell the customer
off. I don't believe either idea is productive or
professional. My approach in similar situations is to remain calm,
present the dilemma and supporting documentation in writing and let the
customer decide: Does he want the job done properly with your
services or improperly without your services. I have observed a few
structural engineers and other professionals that exhibit a very
professional demeanor and I have used them as role models. These
are the men/women that earn good money and are above reproach. This
is the reputation I want to cultivate.<br><br>
Respectfully,<br><br>
William Miller<br><br>
<br><br>
<br><br>
<blockquote type=cite class=cite cite>>You guessed<br>
> it, they showed our detailed proposal to the other firm who then
proposed<br>
> the exact same system we proposed, item for item, except they
lowered<br>
> their price about 1/2%. Yes, we lost the
job.<br>
><br>
> No, its not only not a good idea to give out this cost information,
but<br>
> its also not a good idea to give out a detailed parts list
breakout. If<br>
> the client wants another bid, then go for it, only let the
competition<br>
> have to go to the same trouble you did to figure out what parts and
sizes<br>
> of equipment will be needed.</font></blockquote></body>
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