Disputes

RFP's (RFP definition) that are poorly produced can cost a great deal. As reported in Computer Weekly, millions of pounds have been written off by a software product supplier and an insurance company because of a dispute over the specification of a system. These were large companies so you would think they would know better. But incomplete and vague RFP's are a common and perennial problem, even for the Government. For example, we have recently received a very vague one from a local council.

Buying the wrong system

Even if you avoid a dispute, you may still end up buying the wrong system. If the specification is vague or incomplete , the system you buy may not be capable of doing what you need. Such a specification allows a supplier to mould your requirements to match his product, rather than the other way round. The impact of this can mean losing one's job and even the whole business.

Using an inefficient buying process

Production of a Request For Proposal can involve a great deal on unnecessarily wasted time and money because people find themselves going round in circles and having to re-work the proposal. It can also be very stressful This waste can be largely avoided with the right methods and management.

Protecting yourself

Many of the problems above can be caused by lack of experience, skill, or not enough time to do the job properly. We can provide all these with the following services:-

• Help to initiate the project.
• Advice on creating a Request for Proposal.
• Creating the whole document or part of it.
• Designing standards.
• Training.
• Reviewing existing Request for Proposals.
• Managing a project.
• Rescuing an existing project.

These can be provided individually or in combination, and on-site or remotely.

We have been helping companies, large and small, with Request for Proposals, since 1986, on a variety of systems and in different business sectors including; insurance, investment, pharmaceuticals, medical equipment, paper and marine.

To find out how we may be able to help you, please telephone or email us at one of the contact points below:-

Telephone: +44 (0)20 8573 3911
Facsimile: +44 (0)56 0126 9338

Email: vlilley@lilleyinfosys.co.uk

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