Q: What is an RFP?
A: A Request for Proposal (referred to as RFP) is an invitation for suppliers, through a bidding process, to submit a proposal on a specific commodity or service. A bidding process is one of the best methods for leveraging a company's negotiating ability and purchasing power with suppliers. The Request process brings structure to the procurement decision and allows the risks and benefits to be identified clearly upfront. The Request purchase process is lengthier than others, so it is used only where its many advantages outweigh any disadvantages and delays caused. The added benefit of input from a broad spectrum of functional experts ensures that the solution chosen will suit the company's requirements.
Similar terms include a Request for Quotation and a Request for Information.
Q: How can DirectRFP help me with an RFP?
A: DirectRFP is a hosted, online RFP system that automates the entire RFP process. RFP Questions and Responses are stored in a central repository for the customers use at any time, in any of your RFPs. The system is accessible from anywhere (internet connection required) 24x7.
Q: Who runs DirectRFP?
A: DirectRFP, LLC is a subsididary of LinkSource Communbications, a telecommunications firm based in Folsom, CA. LinkSource Communications created the DirectRFP system initially for their use to automate their multitude of RFPs. After realizing the success they had with the system, they decided to offer DirectRFP as a public service for organizations seeking to gain competitive bids for their projects.
Q: What is required to install DirectRFP?
A: Technically, you only need just a web browser. Since DirectRFP is a hosted solution, we take care of all the installation and configuration.
Q: Is DirectRFP secure?
A: Yes. DirectRFP is secured using 128-bit SSL certificates. SSL is a commonly-used protocol for managing the security of a message transmission on the Internet. SSL uses a public-and-private key encryption system, which also includes the use of a digital certificate. In addition to this, all sensitive data is further encrypted and stored in the database providing an additional layer of security.
Q: Is the server area secured?
A: Yes. The server is secured and protected in a state of the art facility employing security measures such as: Code Access Lock, Security Guard station, Biometric Hand Scanner, Steel doors and Proximity Security Badge locks and 24 hour monitoring via video surveillance. Our facility is SAS70, Type II complaint. More on SAS 70: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SAS_70
Q: Can I use my own RFP Questions?
A: Yes. DirectRFP allows users of the system the ability to quickly and easily upload their RFP questions using Microsoft Excel.
Q: Can I buy the source code for DirectRFP?
A: No. We do not license the DirectRFP source code. However, we will be happy to customize the DirectRFP system for your specific needs / requirements.
Q: Can I manage what my employees see and have access to in the system?
A: Yes. DirectRFP comes standard with Roles, Groups and Permissions. These permissions may be set at the Group or Individual Level. The administrator may grant or deny access to any and every aspect in the DirectRFP system. Further, you may assign read only permissions.
Q: I need help developing my RFP questions. Will DirectRFP be able to assist?
A: Yes. The system includes a number of standard RFP questions for certain products and services. If you need assistance with the RFP question generation for an RFP that is not included in the system, DirectRFP will be glad to assist. You may request a quote at anytime here.
Q: How does the system handle the pricing portion of the RFP?
A: There are two options for obtaining pricing. You may create a Pricing Grid in the system that allows you to specify the product or service description and allows the bidder to enter their price. This allows the system to easily compare pricing between bidders.
Q: How does the system handle emails to and from the bidder?
A: The system includes a Communications Module. All correspondence is required to go through this module. Once communication is submitted, an email is sent to the recipient with a link to click on in order to view and respond to the communication.
