1.38 In this section the input variables which Procuring Authorities will need to introduce into the Spreadsheet or programme to assess their particular projects are identified. Input variables fall into two categories:
• Input Values are those variables, such as Capital Expenditure, Operating Expenditure and the Contract Period, that are inevitably project programme specific. The Spreadsheet assumes no value for such variables and Procuring Authorities will need to input relevant information to enable the Spreadsheet to run;
• Hardwired Default Values are highlighted in grey on the spreadsheet, neither the sponsoring department or the Procuring Authority should alter these inputs.
1.39 Procuring Authorities should ensure that all input variables (i.e. Input Values and Default Values) are appropriate to the circumstances of each project or programme they assess. For inputs sourced from third party advisors, it will be important for Procuring Authorities to understand the form in which the data is provided (e.g. nominal/real) and relevant assumptions (e.g. level of contingency) in order to avoid possible distortions (e.g. double counting).