Workshop Description:
This workshop provides a comprehensive overview of the Request for Proposal (RFP) process for complex public procurements. Participants will learn to plan, develop, evaluate, and negotiate RFPs using structured, defensible methodologies. The course focuses on practical application, combining classroom instruction with real-world scenarios to help participants conduct objective evaluations and achieve best-value outcomes.

Who Should Attend:

• Public procurement professionals responsible for developing, managing, or evaluating RFPs
• Program or technical staff involved in drafting solicitations
• Anyone seeking to strengthen their understanding of the public-sector RFP process

Course/Workshop topics:

• When and how to use the Request for Proposal method
• Proposal development and submission requirements
• Evaluation team selection, roles, and responsibilities
• Developing evaluation criteria and scoring methodologies
• Establishing the competitive range
• Oral presentations and vendor demonstrations
• Best and Final Offers (BAFO) and negotiation strategies
• Debriefings and protest considerations

Benefits of Attendance – participants will:

• Identify when the RFP method is the most appropriate procurement approach
• Apply structured proposal evaluation methodologies
• Develop clear, defensible evaluation criteria and scoring tools
• Facilitate effective oral presentations and demonstrations
• Use BAFOs and negotiations strategically to improve outcomes
• Make well-supported and defensible contract award decisions