1. Learning Objectives

• Understand

the purpose of therequest for proposaland the research proposal; how each is used

the variations on each and their contents

the processes for evaluating the quality of proposals

2. The Research Proposal Process 3. The RPP-Using a Research Supplier 4. Benefits of the RFP RFPs Provide monitoring device Provide control function Provide evaluation opportunity Formalize research procurement process Establish performance expectations 5. Unethical uses of RFPs

Help sponsor plan project budget

Gather cost estimates and design ideas for in-house projects

Create impression of competitive bid for sole-source project

6. Activities in the RFP process Qualify potential vendors Write and distribute RFP Answer supplier questions Evaluate submissions Provide critique to all suppliersAward contracts and start 7. RFP Components Proposal administration information Summary statement of problem Technical section Management section Pricing section Contracts and license section 8. Pricing Section

Services

Data collection

Data analysis

Client meetings

Travel

Respondent survey incentives

Mail costs

Telephone costs

Design meetings

Facilities/ Equipment

Pilot tests

Report preparations

Computer models

Project management

Questionnaire/ reproduction costs

Labor

Deliverables

9. RFP Elements RFPElements Services and support Cost proposal Background Vendor information Proposed solution Instructions tobidders 10. Qualifying Research Suppliers

Research Supplier/ Staff

Experience and industry status

Code of ethical performance

Skill and experience

• Project management

• Research skills

• Business knowledge

Compatibility/ Desirability Supplier Facilities/ Procedures

Project management system

Contractual arrangements

Complaint handling procedures

Quality assurance

Facilities

Reporting procedures

11. The RPP- Doing the project internally 12. The Research Proposal Purpose Presentmanagement question Proposenecessary data Suggest datacollection and analysis Discussresearchefforts 13. Proposal Development 14. Proposal Complexity 15. Structuring the Research Proposal

Executive Summary

Problem Statement

Research Objectives

Literature Review

Importance/ Benefits of Study

Research Design

Data Analysis

Nature/Form

Research Qualifications

Budget

Schedule

Facilities

Project Management

Bibliography

Appendices

16. Researchers Qualifications RelevantManagement Experience ProfessionalResearchCompetence 17. Sample Proposed Budget 18. CPM Schedule 19. Elements of a Project Management Plan Financial/ Legal responsibility Team relationship with client Procedures Organization of research team Management competence Examples of past work PlanElements 20.

Develop a memo-proposal for a research study in which 300 interviews are conducted to address the management question for a management dilemma you face at work or with an organization for which you volunteer.