b'RFQ & RFP: Understanding the EssentialsT he procurement process for;for previous clients who can providecomprehensive document looking to design, construction services,feedback on the firms work. procure a specific product, service, or a products, and projects, typicallyconstruction for a specific project. begins with one or two keyWhen is an RFQ Used? Unlike an RFQ, an agency can request documents: the Request forPrequalification: Often, an RFQfees for Architectural/Engineering Qualifications (RFQ) and/or the Requestis a step in a larger prequalificationservices for a Design/Build project. for Proposal (RFP). Both are integralprocess to narrow down a group ofDesign/Build projects in Missouri are to selecting a firm, vendor or contractorcontractors or vendors to a shortlistrequired to be a two-part procurement; for a project, though they serve distinctfor a subsequent RFP.RFQ is step one, RFP as step two. The purposes and have different levels ofPublic Sector or Governmentsame is true for Construction Manager detail. These documents are used byProjects: For publicly fundedservices. Design/Build request for clients to assess and select the bestprojects, the state of Missouri requiresservices typically provides a stipend for architectural firm, best products, or besta RFQ for architectural/engineeringthe teams that submit and do not win the contractor for their needs. This articleservices. Fees are not allowed to beproject.explores what RFQs and RFPs are, howrequested in an RFQ process per they differ, and how they contribute toprovision 8.285 to 8.291, RSMo.,Key Elements of an RFP:the overall selection process. but are to be negotiated after a firmProject Scope: A clear description of is selected. If the agency is unable tothe projects objectives, deliverables, What is an RFQ negotiate a satisfactory contract withand overall goals. This includes (Request for Qualifications)? the firm selected, you then proceed todetails about size, location, use, and A Request for Qualifications (RFQ)the next firm selected. any special considerations.is an invitation issued by a project ownerEstablishing Long-termDesign Requirements: The owners (or agency) to potential architecturalRelationships: Some clients useexpectations for the project, product firms, vendors, or contractors to submitRFQs to evaluate firms for long-termor service, including any specific their qualifications for a specific projectcollaboration or future projects,criteria the design must meet. For or product type. The RFQ primarilywithout a specific immediate projectexample, the RFP may require focuses on evaluating the companysin mind, to establish a roster ofsustainable design or compliance experience, expertise, and capability toqualified professionals. with certain building codes or successfully undertake the project orFirst Step in a Multi-stepstandards, or a particular type of provide the appropriate product. It doesProcurement Process: In situationsproduct to be utilized.not require detailed design proposals orwhere a client is uncertain aboutRelevant Experience: Examples of cost estimates; rather, the RFQ seeks towhich firms to invite to proposesimilar projects completed, including determine which firms are best suitedfor a specific project, an RFQ helpsproject scope, budget, and outcomes.based on past work, technical expertise,narrow down the pool based on theTimeline: The expected duration and professional qualifications. firms qualifications, allowing for aof the project, including milestones more competitive and informed RFPfor design development, bidding, Key Elements of an RFQ: process later. construction, and final completion.Firm Profile: Information aboutNon-design services: In some cases,Budget: A rough idea of the the firm, including history,RFQs may be issued for servicesfinancial constraints for the project, number of employees, and areas ofthat dont require a proposal but arewhich can help the firm develop a specialization. focused on verifying capabilities proposal that aligns with the owners Project Experience: Examplessuch as contractors, consultants, orbudget expectations.of previous work, especially thoseengineers in addition to architects. Submission Guidelines: Detailed projects that are similar in scope, size,Fees: When it comes to procuringinstructions for how to format and and complexity to the current one. architectural/engineering services insubmit the proposal, including Team Qualifications: Details aboutthe state of Missouri with an RFQ,submission deadlines, required key personnel, their qualifications,a publicly funded entity cannotdocumentation, and any specific experience, and roles on similarrequest fees to be included in theirforms that need to be filled out.projects. submittal. Fees must be negotiatedReferences: Contact information Project Approach: How theafter the selection of a firm. for previous clients who can provide firm typically approachesfeedback on the firms work.projects, including methodology,What is an RFP The RFP is the document where firms management strategies, cost control(Request for Proposal)? can truly differentiate themselves by and design philosophy. A Request for Proposal (RFP), onpresenting not just their qualifications, References: Contact informationthe other hand, is a more detailed andbut their unique design solutions and 26|SCHOOL PLANT MANAGER MAGAZINE|SPRING 2025'