Every Section That Must Be in Your RFP
RFP Section Reference Guide
- Cover Page: Project name, RFP reference, company, issue date, confidentiality notice
- Table of Contents: Numbered sections with page references
- Executive Summary: Context, objectives, expected outcomes, key dates
- Company Overview: Brief description, industry, size, locations, values
- Instructions to Bidders: Submission format, deadline, Q&A process, language, required documents
- Process Timeline: Key dates: Q&A deadline, submission, evaluation, shortlisting, award
- Scope / Specifications: Detailed specifications, service levels, deliverables, volumes, sites, exclusions
- Technical Requirements: Mandatory requirements, desirable requirements, innovation zone
- Pricing Model: Mandatory format (Excel), cost items, units of measure
- Terms & Conditions: Contract template or key clauses (liability, IP, GDPR, termination)
- Evaluation Criteria: Criteria, sub-criteria, weightings, scoring methodology
- Supplier Questionnaire: Company information, financial data, references, certifications, CSR/ESG
- NDA / Confidentiality: Mutual NDA or confidentiality undertaking
- Compliance Declaration: Supplier confirms acceptance and ethical commitment
- Appendices: Technical drawings, data samples, site visit details
💡 Innovation Section: Include an "Innovation Zone" in your RFP where suppliers can propose alternatives to your specifications. Some of the best sourcing outcomes come from supplier-driven innovations that procurement would never have thought of.