Request for proposal
RFP / RFP
A request for proposal invites suppliers to propose how they would meet an outcome or solve a problem, including their technical approach, delivery model, risk treatment and pricing structure.
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Simply put
What it means in ordinary work
An RFP is used when the buyer wants solutions, not only a price. It should set clear evaluation criteria so proposals can be compared consistently.
Why it matters
Complex services and technology often benefit from supplier innovation. An RFP allows that innovation to be considered without losing a defensible selection process.
A hypothetical in practice
A hypothetical city authority issues an RFP for a citizen contact service. Bidders propose different staffing, technology and language-support models, and the evaluation scores outcome quality, resilience, accessibility and cost.
Common pitfalls
A long RFP does not automatically produce better proposals. Prioritise requirements and remove questions that do not affect the decision.
If weightings or mandatory requirements change after the deadline, the process can lose fairness and credibility.
Regional lens
How this lands where you work
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As-of date for date-sensitive regional content: 5 November 2026. Read the review policy.