Compare data offers on the same terms
Updated 4 October 2026
The short answer
Use the same scope and leave unknowns visible before picking a winner.
Use the offer comparison sheet
When two offers cover different records or rights, the larger number is not yet a like-for-like winner.
Put each offer in its own column and compare these rows:
Dataset, systems and date range
Licence uses, exclusivity and duration
Fixed payment or revenue-share basis
Currency, covered period and permitted deductions
Preparation work and your internal cost
Acceptance test, payment trigger and due date
Updates, ongoing effort and reporting
Termination, replacement and refund conditions
Items still unconfirmed
Keep estimates in a separate section from written offers. Keep first-year projections separate from a single fixed payment. If a currency, deduction or payment condition is missing, do not fill it with zero or assume it matches the other offer.
Then send a clarification using this template:
To compare this with another proposal, please confirm the amount and currency for the same named systems and date range, the licence rights and exclusivity, all deductions, the acceptance test and the payment due date. Please identify any term that is still conditional.
Pick the outcome you care about before choosing: net payment, timing, limited rights or repeat opportunity. Record what you would give up for that choice.
A useful decision can be wait for the missing terms. You do not need to manufacture a score to make an incomplete offer look complete.
Sources and limitations
Programme descriptions can change. The signed agreement controls the price, licensed scope and payment conditions. These worksheets help prepare questions and do not certify rights or promise a deal.
- DataQuote estimate method, checked 3 October 2026
Related guides
Review your relevant buyers
Use confirmed facts and keep restricted records outside your proposed scope.
Start a free assessment