Facilities Administration

Real Estate Services Group

RFQ/RFP Principles to Success

• Introduction to Principles
• What is the RFQ/RFP process?
• A means of selection.
• A three-step process consisting of an RFQ, RFP and Negotiation (or a two-step process if there is a pre-existing short list of qualified participants eliminating the need for an RFQ).
• A competitive process with a defined set of selection criteria.
• Why do an RFQ/RFP process?
• To generate competition—increase the potential price/rent received or otherwise strike a better bargain.
• To get a range of solutions to best refine the project to achieve campus goals.
• To grant access to the University’s business.
• To allow disposition of controversial projects in a public process.
• How can the RFQ/RFP process be used?
• Identify a third-party development team for a project off campus (purchase or lease) or on campus (ground lease).
• Find a qualified partner with whom to develop a project.
• Seek professional services or outsource defined functions.

• What are the key elements of a successful RFQ/RFP Process?
  • A cohesive project team that knows what it wants.
  • A clear project concept (not a fishing expedition)
  • Realistic expectations consistent with market conditions.
  • Sufficient direction and background information to fully orient development teams.
  • Selection criteria defined and disclosed.
  • Sufficient time to attract qualified teams and have the short list respondents prepare proposals.
  • A short list (i.e., 3 or 4 finalists pre-qualified) for the RFP Phase.
  • A responsive, timely decision process.
  • Recognition that the RFQ is the 1st step in negotiation.