Writing a Better RFP: Get the Team – and the Results! – Your Community Wants

Course Details

Consultants can provide you with specialized services, complete a project that city staff can't find the time to start or offer additional services without hiring additional full-time staff. Finding the right consultant can be tricky. However, a well-written RFP makes the task easier and leads to more successful projects. Learn best practices for developing a Request for Proposals for consultant services, or responding to them, from both consultants and public-sector staff who review proposals. 

Differences between and RFQ and RFP are described. Tips are provided on how to organize a request, what to include (and things to avoid), how to evaluate proposals, and conducting interviews are outlined.

Join us to learn best practices for developing RFPs, including essential information, defining the scope, creating budgets, reviewing proposals, interviewing, selecting the consultant, and executing the contract. Hear perspectives from both consultants and public-sector staff who review proposals. This program can benefit you as a planner in private practice, someone drafting RFPs, or someone going through the consultant selection process.

Learning Outcomes

• Learn best practices for developing a Request for Proposals and the process for selection of a consultant.
• Understanding the dynamics of a potential consultant review of an RFQ/P can help the RFP authors craft a more enticing request that can lead to a better selection.
• Likewise, for consultants, an understanding of what goes into an RFQ or RFP can help you determine if you want to pursue a project and how you might team up with others for certain requests.
• Enhance consultant and client relationships for more successful planning projects, facilitating the professional and career development of planners in both the public and private sectors.