Developing Request For Proposals (RFPs) that facilitate a Quality Response

A member of a listserv I subscribe to  recently asked listserv members what are the elements of a good Request for Proposal (RFP) . 

My answer:  I recommend providing as much information as possible in the RFP to  facilitate responses from bidders that illustrate how they will provide the services you need and their experience providing the services you need.  The list of elements below is not conclusive,  but it provides a potential bidder with enough information to provide a response that will help determine if the bidder is a good fit.

• Brief intro about the organization
  
• Scope of services required
  
• Are there any special certifications preferred?
• When project is expected to begin
  
• Where do you want the work performed? At your site? At the bidder site?
  
• If funding for the project has been determined, state it. If there is no funding limitation let bidders know if the bid is time and materials, firm-fixed priced or some or pricing structure. 
  
• Should bidders submit reference? If yes, how many? 
• Should bidders submit resumes of personnel performing the work?
• If bidders have questions who is the point of contact? When are the questions due? Can bidders call if they have questions?
• How will the RFP be evaluated? What is the top priority? What is second priority?
  
• Who should the bids be emailed or mailed to?
• Format RFP should be submitted (e.g. via email, mailed, PDF format, Word 97-2003 format)  preferred font, single space/double space