How to write a Effective Proposal

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Nayeem Shaikh's picture

Dear All

I am just joined Stickminds and this is my first question. I am in solution team of this new organization which i have recently joined. As part of the solutioning team I am responcible for giving solution to RFP's (Request for Proposals).

Can somebody guide me in how to write good proposals. Any links,notes etc will do for reference.

Awaiting reply from experts.

 

Regards

Nayeem

 

  

 

Tags: 
business analysis
quality assurance
test methodologies
testing

2 Answers

Matthew Heusser's picture

Hello Nayeem -

I'm afraid I don't have an easy answer for you. Most RFP's are sort of a game. You put a ton of effort into them and have a small chance of getting picked. Your best bet, I think, is to yes, answer the questions, but create a single one-page cover letter about why you are different/better. Get the company to read that first, and interpret your answers in that light.

I found Alan Weiss's "Million Dollar Consulting Proposals" helpful -

http://www.amazon.com/Million-Dollar-Consulting-Proposals-Proposal/dp/11...

But his advice is very anti-RFP. Don't answer the 200 questions; instead get to know the company you are working for, be the sole bidder on the contract, and by the time you get to the proposal, it is no surprise to anyone. RFP's send you the opposite way. Be careful.

Fiona Gibson's picture

Writing effective proposals as well as tools and advice that may improve your business writing overall. 

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