What an RFP is
For federal negotiated acquisitions, the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) describes an RFP as the document that communicates the government's requirements, anticipated terms and conditions, the information offerors must include, and the factors and subfactors used to evaluate proposals.
RFI
Request for Information — market research; gathers information, not offers.
RFQ
Request for Quote — typically focused on pricing for a defined need.
RFP
Request for Proposal — a full proposed solution, often with pricing and evidence.
These distinctions follow GSA's federal guidance. Corporate buyers may use these terms differently — always read what the specific document asks for.
Six-step process
- 1
Read the entire solicitation and every attachment
Include amendments, forms, and Q&A. Note the deadline and time zone. - 2
Build a compliance matrix
List each requirement with its response location, owner, and status so nothing is missed. - 3
Decide go / no-go
Weigh eligibility, fit, capacity, timing, and commercial risk before investing effort. - 4
Write to the stated requirements and evaluation factors
Answer what is asked, in the order asked. Support claims with evidence and relevant past performance. - 5
Validate price, forms, and format
Check price/cost, representations, signatures, attachments, and page or format rules. - 6
Review, submit, and keep proof
Submit through the required channel before the deadline and retain proof of submission.
RFP final check
Use this before you submit. Your selections are not saved.
Preparation progress: 0 of 10 (0%)
Not ready to bid yet? Start with the supplier readiness checklist, or learn where to find government contract opportunities.
Sources & official resources
Requirements change. Always confirm current rules with the official source.
