For samples and valuable information about request for proposals from AMCs, contact The AMC Institute.

Here are key steps to carrying out an effective RFP process:

• Set up a search committee of active volunteers who clearly understand your association and who will marshal the process from developing the RFP to selection.
• The search committee should craft the RFP (see http://www.amcinstitute.org/select/prepare.cfm for an checklist). Note - this shouldn’t be a wish list, but an accurate reflection of what services you need handled. The committee can begin by answering:
  • What’s your Plan? (Your mission and goals)
  • What do you Do? (Your programs and services)
  • How do you do It? (Your structure and procedures)
  • How much can you Spend? (Your budget)
  • What are the most important services we need from an AMC?
• Test to see if your RFP is realistic by conducting a few conversations with potential AMCs or a trusted association professional.
• Assemble the potential list of AMC’s. This step requires you to do your homework but looking at some AMCs (consider checking ASAE & The Center  directory) and gathering recommendations. At Mariner, we recommend you cull this list by making calls to AMCs that seem to fit. These initial conversations can also help you refine your RFP. Mariner welcomes such calls!
• Request responses. For most, this step is either completing the on-line request through The AMC Institute or via email to a list. Be sure to encourage and allow questions from AMCs – which means you want to provide a liberal response period. Generally give AMC’s 3-4 weeks to review, talk with you and complete a proposal.
• Score the proposals based on your criteria and cost.
• Conduct interviews with leading candidates.
• Conduct reference checks.
• Select the firm.