A recent experience got me thinking about the competitive bid process. I met with the potential clients and we hit it off, so I encouraged them to keep me in the loop during the design phase in case I could help with pricing options. The client chose an architect I know and like, and I was optimistic things would go well.

Months later, I got the completed plans and learned I was one of five companies invited to bid. One builder immediately dropped out after learning how many others were involved. I don't know what the other bids came in at, but we were all well over the anticipated budget for the job. The client was mad at the architect and unsure how to proceed....

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