Counties use different solicitation types depending on what they're buying and how much it costs. The name tells you how the county will choose, and therefore how to respond.
At a glance
| RFQ | RFP | IFB / ITB | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Asks for | Prices | A solution and a price | Prices for fixed specifications |
| Chosen by | Lowest acceptable quote | Highest score | Lowest responsive, responsible bid |
| Formality | Often email | Formal, scored by a committee | Formal, sealed, opened in public |
| Negotiation | Rare | Common | Not allowed |
| Examples | Supplies, small repairs | Software, consulting, services | Construction, roads, vehicles |
Responding to an RFQ
Price is what matters. Fill in every line, quote exactly what's specified, state delivery time and how long your price holds, and send it the way the RFQ asks before the deadline. See request for quotation.
Responding to an RFP
You're being scored. Find the evaluation criteria and structure your response around them, in the order the RFP uses. Prove every claim with examples and references, respect page limits, and price in the required format. See how to respond to an RFP.
Responding to an IFB
Precision wins. The lowest price takes it, but only if the bid is responsive: every form signed, every addendum acknowledged, the bid bond attached, and the bid delivered on time. See how to submit a sealed bid.
Other terms you'll see
- RFI (request for information): research only, no contract.
- RFQ (request for qualifications): used for architects and engineers under qualifications-based selection. Same initials, different process.
- Quote request or competitive quotes: the informal middle tier below formal bidding.
Questions
Which is the easiest for a small business to win?
RFQs and competitive quotes are usually the easiest place to start: smaller amounts, simpler paperwork and fewer competitors.
Can a county negotiate after an IFB?
Generally no. IFBs are awarded on the bids as submitted. Negotiation is common in RFPs.