What part of an estimate can reasonably be expected to be done for free?

Question

I have been asked to competitively bid on a software project without getting paid. While the request for quote does include detailed user requirements and an architectural survey there is no architectural or software design included. Each company bidding is expected to propose their own design. Is it reasonable to be expected to disclose ones design for a competitive bid when not getting paid? The company could simply aggregate the best of the designs and hand it over to the lowest bidder or decide to do it internally.

Answer 1

It's only reasonable if the proposed design is kept confidential and not disclosed to other competitors. Of course the final bid will include the cost of the initial bid.

Answer 2

If you don't trust the people you're bidding to then don't bid. If they're a reputable business then it's unlikely they'll try to rip you off like that.

You need to decide if the potential pay-day is worth a little up front investment of your time. If there's big money to be made then it's probably worth you investing time and effort up front to try and win the deal. It's really up to you to decide if it's worth doing.