Today’s post is by Mark Davis; Vice President of Operations and CTO at SafeSourcing. Mark asks "What are other things to keep in mind when running an RFx?"
This is a continuation of my last post where we began to discuss the importance of running a Request for Proposal/Information before a competitive pricing event is run. The last post talked about being specific in the information requested and not being afraid to run an RFx on an existing spend. Here are some additional details to keep in mind.
• More than a template. To obtain truly great RFx results the process should involve more than a template off the internet. Having a team that knows how to properly run an RFx will ensure the right formatting is used; answers will be collected quickly; full results analysis will be conducted; as well as an assurance that the right companies are invited to the process to provide a mix of leaders; innovators and up-and-comers.
• If you use an online tool, go beyond the basic survey providers. Providers that give access for creating free or inexpensive surveys are good for basic questionnaires but often lack the flexibility and post-survey analysis that a company used to handling RFP/RFI responses can provide.
• Remove the bias. If at all possible try to find an independent company that can handle the entire RFx process all the way through to the final results and analysis, ensuring your results will show the best company with no bias.
• Integrate with the Reverse Auction. Having an RFx process tightly integrated with the initial quote gathering and final competitive pricing event means that your company as well as all of the suppliers can get comfortable with one system for everything and not have to go from one tool to another to deliver the information you need.
For more information about the SafeSourcing RFx tools and professional services, please contact a Customer Service Representative today.
We look forward to and appreciate your comments.
