Introduction

CoST, the Infrastructure Transparency Initiative, is working to improve the measurement and reporting of our macro-level impact. As part of that effort, we are seeking a consultant to develop a methodology and guidance, for use by CoST members and others, to measure and report on the financial cost savings resulting from applying CoST tools and approaches. This call for proposals describes the details of the assignment and invites applications from suitably qualified individuals or firms to be appointed to complete the assignment.

Background to CoST

CoST is a charity and non-profit company registered in the UK. We work with governments, industry, and civil society to promote transparency, accountability, and participation in infrastructure investment. The ultimate impact of our work is better value for money and better-quality infrastructure and services. We currently have 20 members and work with a range of other partners including bilateral and multilateral agencies, industry bodies, and other stakeholders. More information on CoST can be found here.

Scope of Work

The objectives of this assignment are twofold: (1) To develop a methodology to measure and report on the financial cost savings resulting from applying CoST tools and approaches and; (2) To develop a guidance note to support those applying the methodology. These objectives will be achieved through completing a series of interrelated activities including:

a. Complete a desk-based review of relevant secondary sources. CoST will provide some materials, and the consultant will be expected to identify additional materials.
b. Conduct a stakeholder consultation group meeting to develop use cases for the methodology that help determine its scope, its requirements, the ways that users will interact with it, the volume and quality of data required and any technical requirements for its operationalisation.
c. Identify a sample of CoST members, and/or other partners, to act as test cases. You will draw on their experience and use the data they provide to develop and test the methodology.
d. Develop the draft methodology, giving consideration to technical, commercial, political economy and other relevant factors, and present it to the client for feedback.
e. Refine the methodology based on the feedback received.
f. Develop a draft guidance note aimed at those who will apply the methodology. The length and format of the guidance note is likely to be similar to those already developed by CoST on other topics, which are available on the CoST website.
g. Present the draft to the client for feedback and revise it based on that feedback.

Working with CoST

The successful applicant will be in regular contact with a CoST team member throughout the assignment. CoST will facilitate introductions, provide support in convening meetings, and give timely feedback on draft materials.

Structure of the Proposal

The proposal should be no more than 2500 words in length (not including appendices). The proposal should include the following sections, but it is not limited to them.
a. Introduction: Introduce the applicant, their experience relevant to the assignment, their understanding of the assignment and any other response to the Call for Proposals.
b. Methodology: Detail the proposed methodology for undertaking the assignment, which are likely to include but not limited to research methods, participant selection, data collection and analysis, analytical tools, statistical methods, ethical considerations and risk management.
c. Team Qualifications: Describe the qualifications and expertise of the proposed team, highlighting relevant experience in relation to the assignment.
d. Budget: Present a detailed budget proposal, including requirements for personnel, travel and other necessary expenses.
e. Appendices: Include any additional relevant documents such as organisational profiles, CVs of key personnel, and examples of previous similar assignments.

Timeline

▪ The deadline for submitting proposals is 12pm on 21st March 2025
▪ Interviews on or around 27th March
▪ Decision and contracting 31st March
▪ Inception report 14th April
▪ Submission, feedback and revision of draft outputs around 16th May
▪ Submission on final outputs 30th May.

Budget

The budget available for this assignment is approximately £25,000.

Submission of Proposals

Proposals should be submitted to Petter Matthews at p.matthews@infrastructuretransparency.org no later than 12pm on Friday 21st March.
Questions and clarifications my also be submitted via this address.