When a municipality needs an outside service provider or consultant, a Request for Proposal (RFP) or a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) are options to communicate this need. The purpose of an RFP is to provide specialized service providers with a specific detailed description of a project and request that they submit a proposal addressing the manner in which the project would be completed and the cost. From the responses, the local government selects the consultant based on the cost and responsiveness to the RFP.
An RFQ is similar to an RFP, however an RFQ provides the opportunity to select a consultant based on the needs of the community and qualifications of the consultant, not low bid.
RFP Sharing Services – Learn about the League’s new service to help you get your RFPs/RFQs out to the appropriate consultants through our Business Alliance Program.
Selecting and Working with Consultants (MML Handbook chapter – PDF)
Guidelines for Selecting a Commercial Contractor (PDF) – The League, in collaboration with WARM Training Center, the Clean Energy Coalition, and Michigan Energy Options, developed these guidelines and recommended contract provisions to aid municipalities in developing a RFP or other bid documents. This work was supported by the Michigan Recovery and Reinvestment Plan and the Bureau of Energy Systems.