If you want to win government tenders in South Africa, understanding Functionality Scoring is essential. Functionality Scoring determines whether your business can deliver the project successfully before pricing and B-BBEE points are even considered. If you fail this minimum threshold, your tender is disqualified — even if your price is the most competitive. In this guide, we explain how to pass the minimum functionality threshold and increase your chances of winning tenders.
That is why learning how to meet and exceed the functionality threshold will dramatically increase your tender success rate.
Quick reminder: Functionality scoring = proving you are capable, skilled, and equipped to do the work.
What Is Functionality Scoring in a Tender?
Functionality scoring is the evaluation of your capability to successfully perform the contract. Government uses this stage to filter serious, qualified bidders from those who cannot deliver.
You are usually scored on:
- Past performance & relevant project experience
- Technical skills and industry expertise
- Staff qualifications and CVs
- Resources, equipment, and systems
- Proposed methodology or execution plan
- Track record & reference letters
Most tenders set a minimum threshold, such as 70%. If you score below that — even by 1% — your bid fails.
Goal: Score above the minimum threshold
Never: Submit without evidence or clear documentation
Key Documents You Need to Meet Functionality Requirements
To pass functionality scoring, include the following:
- Required Document Why It Matters
- Company profile Shows operational structure & professionalism
- List of previous projects Proves experience
- Completion/reference letters Shows successful delivery
- Organisational structure Demonstrates team capability
- CVs & qualifications Validates skills & expertise
- Execution methodology Explains how you will deliver
- Equipment/resources proof Confirms capacity
- Industry certifications (if required) Confirms compliance
Tip: Create a permanent “tender folder” so every document is always ready.
How to Pass the Minimum Functionality Threshold (Winning Tips)
Use these proven strategies to increase your score:
- Match the tender wording
- Repeat key terms used in the tender document.
- Provide evidence
- Letters, certificates, CVs, photos — proof always wins points.
- Use a professional layout
- Tables, headings, bullet points, and clean formatting help evaluators score you easily.
- Tailor each submission
- Avoid copy-paste responses. Each tender deserves a customised plan.
- Include a clear methodology
- Step-by-step delivery plan = serious contractor energy.
- Show capacity creatively
If you lack equipment or a skill, attach rental agreements or subcontracting letters.
Common Mistakes That Cause Tender Disqualification
Avoid these errors:
- Generic templates
- Missing CVs or expired documents
- No supporting proof
- Weak or unclear methodology
- Poor document formatting
- No references or completion letters
Example of a Functionality Scoring Table
| Criteria | Weight |
|---|---|
| Relevant project experience | 30% |
| Technical methodology | 30% |
| Staff qualifications | 20% |
| Capacity & equipment | 10% |
| References & track record | 10% |
| Minimum threshold to pass | 70% |
Your goal is not just to hit 70% — aim for 85%+ to stand out.
When you understand and master Functionality Scoring: How to Pass the Minimum Threshold, you give yourself a winning edge.
You don’t just submit tenders. You submit qualified, strategic, competitive proposals. That is how you stay in the running and eventually secure government contracts.