An RFP (a request for proposal) is what you sent to agencies to assess your project and provide you with a proposal. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to prepare a great RFP for your website. You can be sure that the more thorough you are with your RFP, the more accurate your proposal will be.
What makes a good RFP?
A web redesign request or proposal is the first thing you put together when you need a website. Submitting your RFP to multiple agencies is standard and always a good idea — it's how you get an idea of what it will take to bring your project and vision to life. Agencies usually respond with a proposed solution that lists the scope of work, timeline, and website cost. Normally, this exchange is followed up by a brief phone call and a question and answer session.Think of your RFP as the first impression to possible agency partners. A great RFP sets the ball rolling for a great partnership.
Please don't be uptight. Your RFPs need not be boring. We are talking about your business, so feel free to make it fun. At Hotsnow, we know a thing or two about RFPs, so use our guidelines below as a starting point rather than rules. Please keep it simple.
The outline for an RFP should include:
· Summary· Company Background
· Core Objectives
· Project Scope and Delivery
· Sitemap
· Timeline & Milestones
· Functional/Technical Requirements
· Budget
· Criteria for Selection
1. Summary
This portion of the request for the proposal gets to the point. It tells the reader of your project who you are and why you're submitting an RFP to them. The summary section sets the tone for the rest of the proposal. It would be best if you made an introduction to your company and the reason for submitting your RFP. Tell your potential vendor what you want them to help you accomplish and layout any problems you or your users face with your current site.2. Company background
Giving your company or organization's background tells your potential vendor what you represent and can provide an early indication towards confirming whether the project will be an appropriate fit.3. Core Objectives
It's essential to prioritize the most important objectives you'd like to accomplish in your project so that your vendor knows precisely what you're looking to get out of this engagement. Establishing your goals initially is a great way to increase your chances of success with your new website.4. Project Scope and Deliverables
Your project scope itemizes the tasks you want to be done. It helps your developer to apply an hourly rate based on their best estimates related to previous projects. Having this information will ensure your vendor gives you the best website proposal.Here's a list of what you should expect to see when engaging with your vendor:
· Graphic Design
· Project Management
· Frontend development
· UX/UI Planning
· Content strategy
· Backend development
· On-site SEO
· Quality Assurance and Testing
· PPC Campaigns
· Content Migration
· Copywriting/Content
· Content Management System Training
· Marketing
· Visual Identity
· Brand Positioning
· Photography
· Video Production
