Rfpguide

Guidelines for Writing a Request for Proposal (RFP)
June 25, 2010
Outline
A Request for Proposal (RFP) is a crucial stage of the client/supplier relationship. Guidelines for an RFP are becomingcommon practice in the world of web-related technologies. An RFP aids in establishing a line of communication and can clarify needs and requirements of your project. I have compiled this document toassist you in creating an RFP that will adequately represent and address your needs.

An RFP should define your needs, it does not need to be a document that is laced with technical jargon that webprofessionals alone understand. It is my job to translate your needs into best-solution specifications. Tell me what you want in plain English, however clear that picture may be. Try to lay out budgetarylimitations and time constraints in this initial RFP. This helps to ensure that the proposal I present is an accurate one that responds to your RFP and lets me know up front whether we can be ofassistance or not.

One last consideration is that your RFP should contain specific criteria concerning eligibility of potential developers (i.e., Respondents must have been in business for no less than3 years). This is a courtesy, proposals take a great deal of thought and time to prepare. Please state this clearly in the initial RFP. This will ensure that neither your time, nor the respondents iswasted.

Recommended structure and checklist
Overview
A plain English description of what the project will entail. This can be summarized in a paragraph or two.
Company/Organization ProfileTell us about your organization or business. This will assist Sticky Wicket Designs in visualizing the context of your project. Knowledge and examples of any existing branding and similar projects -successful or otherwise - help to establish your organization in our eyes.
Intended Audience
A description of the audience for your product/project. Is it specifically geared towards a certain...