What is generally the first document to be prepared for a project's procurement?

The first document typically prepared for a project's procurement is the Invitation to Bid. This document serves as a formal request to contractors to submit a bid for the project. It outlines the general scope of the work, important project details, and the timeframe for submitting bids.

The Invitation to Bid is crucial as it officially announces that the project is open for bidding and provides potential bidders with the essential information they need to prepare their proposals. It acts as the initial communication tool between the owner and the contractors, setting the stage for the procurement process.

Following this, the other documents like the Instructions to Bidders and the Bid Form play supporting roles in guiding bidders on how to prepare their submissions and what information to include. While specifications detail the requirements of the project, they are usually developed after the Invitation to Bid has been distributed to ensure that bidders understand the context and expectations before they prepare their proposals.