The RFP

For samples and valuable information about request for proposals from AMCs, contact

The American Society of Association Executives (ASAE)

International Association of Association Management Companies (IAAMC)

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

1. 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.
2. The search committee should craft the RFP (see http://www.iaamc.org/forms/rfp_guidelines.doc for an excellent checklist). This shouldn’t be a wish list, but an accurate reflection of what services you need handled. They 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?

3. Distribute RFP. Be sure to encourage and allow questions from AMCs.
4. Score the proposals based on your criteria and cost.
5. Conduct interviews with leading candidates.
6. Conduct reference checks.
7. Select the firm.