RFSO Response Tips

Read the RFSO and all Exhibits in their entirety to ensure your understanding. If anything is unclear, send your question in writing to the RFSO contact person by the question deadline noted in Bonfire.

Avoid using hyperlinks within your proposal document as opening them may increase the risk of potential viruses. It is clearly stated in the RFSO that these will not be looked at or evaluated.

Do not assume that because your company has an existing contract with Kinetic GPO the requested information does not need to be provided. Evaluations are based strictly on the information provided in the response and not on any previous history or knowledge.

Only proposals received on or before the Submission Deadline set out in the RFSO Timetable will be evaluated. Respondents are cautioned that the timing of their proposal submission is based on when it is received, not when it is submitted. Allocate sufficient time to upload documents and finalise your submission.

Ensure all listed mandatory requirements are submitted including Exhibit E Market Basket. Although this is a non-binding process, failure to submit pricing in Exhibit E will result in an automatic rejection.

Specifically list previous public sector agency and GPO experience. A general statement such as "we have worked for many municipalities and school boards" without being specific will not be considered in the evaluation or scored.

Thoroughly review Exhibit C and the questions being asked. In some cases, there are several questions in each section which are each allocated specific points. Respond to the questions in the order that they are outlined in Exhibit C.

When responding to an RFSO the amount of information you provide is not limited. Keeping your response succinct will help ensure you provide what is required without unnecessary bulk.

Be sure that those in your organisation are clear on who will be submitting the response. Two responses from the same firm will not be considered and may result in a bid rejection.

Take advantage of the debrief opportunity offered. Just because your company was successful at one RFSO does not mean they will be for the next one. Take the time to find out where improvements can be made.

Ensure that you have spoken to your references to confirm that the individual and contact detail is correct, and that they are aware they are being named, prior to listing them in the RFSO.