What is an addendum in the context of bidding documents?

An addendum in the context of bidding documents is a written change or clarification issued before the bidding process officially begins. It serves the purpose of communicating additional information that can affect bidders' understanding of the project requirements, specifications, or deadlines. By issuing an addendum, the issuer ensures that all bidders have access to any modifications or clarifications that may influence their proposals, thereby promoting fairness and clarity in the bidding process.

This is essential as it allows bidders to make informed decisions based on the most current information. An addendum can address questions raised during the initial stages of the bidding, amend specifications, or clarify ambiguities in the bidding documents, ensuring that all participants have a clear understanding of what is required.

Other options do not accurately describe the function of an addendum. A final contract after bidding pertains to the agreement that results from the bidding process, while a summary of bids received does not relate to clarifications or modifications but rather a collection of submitted proposals. An assessment of project feasibility looks at whether a project is viable and is unrelated to the bidding documents themselves.