A recent experience reminded me why transparency and due diligence matter when discussing potential construction projects.
I was approached by an individual who introduced himself as holding a senior position in a construction company. During an informal meeting, he described an urgent construction project opportunity and suggested that he could put QHSEL forward for the assignment.
Naturally, I requested some basic information - the project brief, site layout, details of the client and clarification of his authority to represent the organisation. He indicated that he would revert with the information.
With limited documentation available, I sought assistance from a trusted professional contact to make preliminary enquiries. Based on the feedback received, the project appeared to remain at the feasibility or planning stage. The enquiries also raised questions about the extent of the individual’s authority to represent the organisation.
Despite these matters remaining unresolved, I continued receiving requests to submit our company profile, accompanied by suggestions that we might otherwise lose the opportunity.
There may have been a misunderstanding about the project’s status or the individual’s role. Nevertheless, urgency should not replace basic verification.
A project being included in a feasibility study does not, by itself, mean that it has been approved, funded or authorised for procurement. Depending on the project and jurisdiction, further steps may include assessing technical and financial viability, securing the relevant approvals and funding, obtaining land and statutory clearances, developing the scope and design, and completing the applicable procurement process. Some of these steps may overlap.
Likewise, the procurement route should be verified rather than assumed. Public projects may be subject to competitive tendering, while other procurement methods, including direct negotiation, may be permitted under applicable rules and approvals. An introduction alone does not establish an entitlement to an appointment or award.
There is a legitimate role for intermediaries and business development representatives. What matters is that their mandate, responsibilities and any proposed commercial arrangements are clear and properly authorised.
At QHSEL, we welcome credible opportunities and professional introductions. Before committing resources or allowing our credentials to support a proposal, however, we need sufficient information about the client, project status, scope and authorised route of engagement.
Due diligence is a matter of professional responsibility and mutual protection. A credible opportunity should allow reasonable questions and clear answers.