If the local government has opted to use a one-stage selection process, it is possible that a number of detailed and complex proposals will be received. Evaluating these proposals is a difficult and time-consuming task. In order to establish an initial screen of submissions, information that is required in an RFQ process should be included in the mandatory requirements for the RFP. These elements would include:
• a profile of the potential partner making the application (if the partner is to be a consortium formed for the purpose of providing a proposal, each person or firm in the consortium should provide information on its principal business and the length of time that it has been in operation)
• a statement of financial stability (that can be evaluated on a pass/fail basis)
• a statement of financial capability, including access to capital (debt and equity)
• a statement of performance capability that includes an overview of overall experience, experience in similar projects, senior management expertise, expertise of those staff members who will work on the project, ability to obtain necessary resources, and references
If the information provided in this initial portion of the proposal is not satisfactory to the project team, potential partners can be eliminated. This initial screening will save time and allow the project team to give their full evaluation attention to fewer potential partners. The submissions in the one-stage RFP process will also have to include the requirements listed in the following section on two-stage processes.