FIND WORK / PRICE & WIN

Client Pre-Qualification

Before you spend time on a site visit, proposal or unpaid advice, check what you actually know about the client and the enquiry. This tool helps surface the things worth resolving first.

It is a prompt for judgement, not a verdict on the client.

The enquiry

Answer each question as things genuinely stand today, not as you hope they will turn out. Nine questions, three answers each.

Project / client label (optional)Used only to title the copied summary. It is stored on this device and does not affect the assessment.

01Does this look like work your practice should be doing?

Strong fitThe project type, scale and location suit the practice.Possible fitIt could suit the practice, but something is outside the normal sweet spot.Poor fitThe work is materially outside the practice’s intended project type, scale, location or capability.

02Is there a credible project budget?Critical

YesA budget or range has been discussed and looks broadly realistic.PartlyA budget exists, but it has not yet been tested or properly discussed.No / unrealisticThe budget is unknown, being avoided or appears incompatible with the brief.

03Do they appear willing to pay appropriately for professional architectural input?

YesThe conversation is about value, scope and fit rather than simply finding the cheapest fee.UnclearFees have not really been discussed yet.ConcernThey appear strongly price-led, expect significant free work or are already pushing for a fee before the scope is understood.

04Are you speaking to someone who can actually appoint you?Critical

YesThe key decision-maker is involved.PartlyOther people still need to agree or become involved.NoThe person making contact cannot meaningfully approve the appointment.

05Is the brief clear enough to understand what they need?Critical

Clear enoughYou understand the main problem, desired outcome and broad scope.DevelopingThere is a genuine project, but important parts of the brief still need clarification.Too vagueThere is not yet enough information to understand what you would actually be appointed to do.

06Is the client’s programme realistic?Critical

WorkableThe timescale is credible for the likely project and approvals.TightThe programme may work, but expectations need managing.UnrealisticThe requested timing is materially inconsistent with the work, approvals or decision-making required.

07How ready are they to take a real next step?

ReadyThey are willing to arrange a meeting/site visit, provide information or discuss an appointment.ExploringThey are genuinely considering the project but have not committed to a next step.Very early / shopping aroundThey mainly appear to be gathering ideas, free advice or multiple speculative quotes.

08What does the interaction so far suggest about working together?

PositiveCommunication has been clear, responsive and respectful.UnknownThere has not been enough interaction to judge yet.ConcernCommunication is already difficult, inconsistent, demanding or repeatedly unclear.

09How are they choosing an architect?

Fit-ledThey are considering relevant experience, approach and whether the working relationship is right.ComparingThey are speaking with a reasonable number of practices and comparing scope, approach and fee.Price / speculative-work ledThe process appears dominated by lowest fee, unpaid design work or an open-ended request for ideas.

Progress0 of 9 questions answered

Anything else making you hesitate?

Optional. Nothing here is required, and none of it decides the result on its own. Selecting 3 or more means the assessment will not read as a strong fit.

Budget and ambition appear materially disconnectedSeveral decision-makers are not alignedSignificant advice/design is being requested before appointmentScope keeps expanding before a fee is agreedRepeated pressure to reduce fees before scope is understoodUnrealistic programme expectationsPoor communication or repeated missed commitmentsNegative history with several previous consultants without a clear explanationThe client appears to be collecting free ideas or speculative proposalsOther concern

SelectedNone

What this tells you

0 of 9 questions answered

Answer all 9 questions to see the assessment. Unanswered questions are not treated as a problem - they are simply not counted yet.

Your answers are saved on this device.

This is a business-development decision aid, not a substitute for professional judgement. A strong score does not guarantee a suitable client, appointment or project outcome.