The elements of a quotation-comparison template
When you request a quote from several suppliers for the same items, you need a comparison template that shows the difference clearly so you pick the best value — not just the cheapest. Let's see the elements the template must include, and how Zemam compares supplier quotes side by side and converts the winner to a PO in one click.
1. The request details
- Request number and date
- The requested items and their quantities
- The required specification for each item
2. Each supplier's quote
- Supplier name, code, and contact
- Unit price per item
- Quantity available (can they supply the full amount?)
- Lead time
- Quote validity (valid until)
- Payment terms (cash / credit / installments)
- Taxes and discounts
- Warranty and spec compliance
- Supplier notes per line
3. Analysis and decision
- Each supplier's total (Σ price × quantity)
- Best price per item — highlighted
- Best lead time per item — highlighted
- The recommendation / award (the winner) and why
How Zemam does it
In Zemam you create a Request for Quote (RFQ) with the items and quantities, and each supplier submits their quote — even via a link, no account needed. The system gathers the quotes into one comparison table showing each supplier's unit price, lead time, and available quantity plus their total, and highlights the best price and best lead time per item. You record payment terms and warranty in the notes, award the winner, and convert their quote to a Purchase Order in one click — no re-entry. The whole comparison is a pre-PO stage with no accounting entries; the accounting impact starts at the PO.
Frequently asked questions
Should I compare on price alone?
No — price isn't the only criterion. The cheapest may be slower to deliver, lower quality, or have harder payment terms. A proper comparison balances price, lead time, payment terms, quality, and warranty — so sometimes the slightly pricier supplier is actually the better value.
How does Zemam collect supplier quotes?
You create a Request for Quote (RFQ) with the items and quantities, and each supplier submits their quote — even via a link they receive without an account. Then you see all quotes in one side-by-side comparison table: unit price per item, lead time, quantity available, and each supplier's total.
Does the system show me the best quote?
Yes — the comparison table highlights the best price and best lead time for each item, so you decide fast. Payment terms and warranty are recorded in the notes field on each quote so they factor into the comparison too.
Once I pick a supplier, what next?
You award the winning quote and convert it to a Purchase Order (PO) in one click — same items, prices, and quantities, no re-entry. Importantly: quote comparison is a pre-PO stage with no accounting entries; the accounting impact starts at the PO and goods receipt.
Related reading
Compare your suppliers' quotes and pick the best value
In Zemam you request quotes, compare them side by side with the best price and lead time per item, and convert the winner to a PO in one click.