8 Required elements of a solid proposal production plan

Successful proposal production encompasses myriad elements. Develop a standard proposal production plan, including multiple checklists, and tailor your plan for each proposal according to the RFP requirements. Do this as soon after RFP release as feasible and then update with final details as you get closer to beginning production activities.

Your proposal production plan should include, at minimum:

1. Document production instructions
2. Version control instructions
3. Systems testing instructions
4. Supplies planned and ordered for use for the proposal
5. Software packages and versions planned for use for the proposal (may be specified by the RFP)
6. Resources and supplies – in-house and outside vendors for printing and office/production supplies ordered for use for the proposal, e.g., binders, tab sets, paper, toner cartridges, and other printer supplies
7. White Glove Review quality control instructions
8. Delivery instructions

By Beth Wingate