IT and Computer Proposal Writing Resources

How To Write a Winning Proposal

Exerpted from The Sant Corporation - July 18, 2006

1. Introduction

• Why Do Customers Want Proposals?

2. What Goes into a Winning Proposal?

• Evidence that you understand the client's business problem or need
• A recommendation for a specific approach, program, system design, or application that will solve the problem and produce positive business results
• A compelling reason for the client to choose your recommendation overany others
• Evidence of your ability to deliver on time and on budget

3. Personalization

• Effective sales people do not deliver one message
• Effective marketing and sales require a combination of content and insight
• Boilerplate messages may be worse than no messages at all
• Use the customer’s language and refer to issues from their business and their industry

Complete document in PDF format

Seven Proposal Formatting Tips

Exerpted from CapturePlanning.com - September 26, 2006

1. Two Headings are Better Than One

2. Make It Easy to Evaluate Compliance

3. Keep It Short

4. Put It In An Appendix

5. Don't Forget Your Website

6. Don't Bind It Like a School Report

7. Black-and-White or Color?