[rykiel]

To fellow web designers, how do you write effective RFP answers?

Umm, may I ask what RFP means? I'm a web designer, but I have no clue what this means.

[robert]

RFP = Request for Proposal

[robert]

I've seen thousands of proposals over the years, here is my top 5 things more or less you don't want to make a mistake on:

#1 - Spelling and grammar errors, this is by far the biggest mistake on RFP's.
#2 - Not including contact information, this includes full address, phone, fax and email.
#3 - Not including references, before we sign any contract over $500, we ask for these.
#4 - Including fake references, believe me when I say people check. Often I see "Microsoft" or "Yahoo" when in fact just that is a turn off as it's traditionally their policy not to allow this.
#5 - Not following up with a hard copy. Every professional group I've dealt with has delivered a hard copy, typically via overnight package. This should apply to any proposal over $2k, makes for a killer response and makes you stand out.

Just my two cents ;)

[3cellhosting]

Adding to Robert's reply there are a couple of other important aspects to RFQs (Request For Quote).

• Make sure that you answer every element of the original brief. Give examples where appropriate.
• Where possible provide choices for the client. This shows flexibility and leaves them in control.
• Always breakdown your costs. Some clients may buy extra services if the see you are competitive in a specific area or service.

If you are sending a hard copy then it should be on 100g quality paper printed at highest quality you can get and then bound properly. Put yourself in the client's shoes - the mail arrives and you have two quotes, one on 80g cheap copier paper with a staple at top left corner, the other on crisp white 100g paper wire bound with card back cover and clear front cover.

Remember - You only get one chance to make a first impression :)