Two similarly named robot quotations may cover very different projects. Align scope and expose omissions before hardware price dominates the decision.
One requirements matrix
Ask each supplier the same questions. Mark missing items as unconfirmed rather than zero cost. Hands, computing, SDK access and licences may vary between editions of the same model.
Price, evidence and responsibility
Separate price, timing, commissioning and acceptance. Distinguish written quotation facts from presentations. Process capability needs a test; service claims need a named provider and response scope.
Minimum and target configurations
Compare trial essentials with production requirements. A cheaper locked-down edition may not suit researchers. Expensive equipment adds no value unless the agreed task uses it.
Information to start
- Dated quotations with version and supply scope
- Operating assumptions and common cost horizon
- Required, optional and excluded items
Deliverable to agree
Quotation matrix, gaps, questions and explained differences.