Request For Proposal (RFP)

One of the challenges that our clients face almost every day is responding to a Request For Proposal (RFP).

Because this is an important part of our clients responsibilities, we are always happy to assist in this critical juncture in a project.

In today’s tough economy, competition is fierce among design professionals so it is critical to be as prepared as possible when trying to win new projects, especially those that are put out for bid. New publicly bid projects that have good potential to go to construction have become scarce. When a project does come up, there are 20 to 30 firms competing for the same job, making the chances of your firm being awarded the project even slimmer. When considering whether or not to bid on one of these projects you need to ask yourself the following questions:

• Does your firm have the experience with the project type?
• Do you have the staff capable of handling a project of this size and scope?
• Do you have confidence in your design team including your sub-consultants?
• Can you turn in a successful project that will be profitable?

When preparing your response to the Request for Proposal (RFP), you take many steps to ensure your firm has a good chance at being awarded the project. You choose a project manager and the employees within your firm that have the most experience with the project type. You take great care in selecting your sub-consultants. You follow your customary quality control procedures. Every aspect of the design phase, the costs of construction, the construction schedule and most importantly your fees will be thoroughly reviewed before the bids are released.

For more information regarding the proper way to respond to an RFP, please click HERE to read Debra Pellet’s guest essay on ae ProNet’s website or contact your local Professional Underwriters, Inc. office.