It isn’t uncommon for me to receive a frantic call from a purchaser asking how to write an RFP.
I’m happy to help. But what concerns me is the emergency focus on completing a document. An RFP isn’t just a document. It is a process. And no matter how well-structured the document is, the result is highly likely to be a failure unless the entire RFP process was equally well-structured.
This means asking the right suppliers to bid, prequalifying them when necessary. It also requires working closely with internal customers to ensure that the right selection criteria are in place. Bottom line, you need a step-by-step sourcing strategy, so you are prepared to handle the tasks that follow the issuance of the RFP.
So, if you find yourself in immediate need of help with RFP writing, slow down and make sure you are properly managing the entire process. In the long run, it will actually save you time and help you avoid sloppy mistakes that will embarrass you later.
We’ve compiled some excellent NLPA References for you below:
- RFP Tips
- Request for Proposal RFP
- 10-Point RFP Proofreading Checklist
- RFP Planning
- Evaluating Proposals For Compliance Doesn’t Have To Be Such A Pain In The A-Double-Dollar-Signs!
Become a member of one of the world’s largest procurement associations today.
Recommended Reading
- Procurement Best Practice Execution
- Best Cost Reduction and Performance Management Strategies
- Managing Supplier Performance
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