A nice reminder from Daniel Barnes
Any time I work on a new Request for Proposal, I create a timing chart. I indicate the time spent doing research, stakeholder engagement, various drafts, and feedback for improvement.
I then create the other steps in the timing chart keeping in mind holidays and weekends.
Most often, I start from the date I want to post and work backward. I allow the supplier extra time so that they are not rushed. I avoid posting just before Christmas with a closing date right after Christmas. Bah, Humbug!
Time is allocated for answering questions and making sure that the responses are as complete as possible.
The last and most important piece of the timing is determining the date when the contract will be executed. Which means allowing legal their chance to make changes.
This last part is where the timing is often underestimated. It takes a lot longer than anticipated. Whatever time you have inserted then double it.
I do hope that this helps.
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