5 Common Visual Mistakes in Construction Proposals & Fixes

In construction proposals, the content is just as important as the way it’s presented. Many proposals fall short visually, making it harder for evaluators to navigate key information and understand the project’s value. One common mistake is inconsistent formatting. Changing fonts, layouts, or styles from page to page creates confusion and a sense of disorganisation. The solution is to establish a consistent design system that brings cohesion and clarity to the entire document. Another issue is dense, text-heavy pages. Large blocks of text can overwhelm readers and cause important points to get lost. Breaking up text with bullet points, subheadings, and infographics helps make content more digestible and engaging.

Low-quality visuals are also a problem. Blurry images or irrelevant stock photos can undermine professionalism. Custom, high-resolution visuals—like 3D renders or bespoke diagrams—create a stronger impact.

Lack of visual hierarchy can make it difficult for reviewers to find the most important information. Clear, well-designed layouts with strategic use of font size, colour, and spacing guide the reader’s eye. Lastly, many proposals miss the opportunity to tell a story. Data-heavy submissions can feel dry and forgettable but incorporating visual storytelling—such as process diagrams or timelines—adds context and clarity, making your proposal more memorable.