For companies just starting out, if funds are limited, choosing tools can be a tricky decision. However, as with any job, choosing the right tools can make a task easier, more efficient and effective. Tracking leads and opportunities is the first step for good management. Tracking can be accomplished through a well-maintained spreadsheet, shared via an online system, or less desirable via email. A more reliable tool is Salesforce.com. Salesforce.com allows a central respository for lead data, allows multiple people to provide input and updates, and provides an effective means to track/report results.

Managing the documents and people pursuing an identified opportunity is the second step. Our company works with different systems depending on our clients requirements. We have organized and established company specific internal systems, using various tools such as eRoom and Sharepoint. But the best system (in our opinion) is Privia by SpringCM (www.privia.com) which is now fully integrated with Salesforce.com. We sort of stumbled across them while working on a client project – and were so impressed – we have become an authorized reseller of the system as well as provide technical and process support for companies who need help in setting up their internal processes. We also offer a special arrangement for companies wishing to test Privia. Through Comprehensive Proposal Services, we can offer month to month arrangements, plus small number access (buying directly from Privia typically requires a 10 seat purchase, with an annual contract).

The key to any successful proposal process is to document your process and have a common area for proposal history (past performance, past proposals, opportunities summaries). A common error is to rely on individual resources (computers, memory etc). If a computer crashes or a person leaves – corporate knowledge and history is lost.

So at the very least – establish and document your processes; establish and update a repository; and capture, document and retain all critical information regarding opportunities considered.

Call for more information, call us at: 877-228-9440

Knowing what is planned for upcoming procurements is an important step in narrowing your strategy. The forecast for GSA can be found at: www.gsa.gov/smbusforecast.

Comprehensive Proposal Services can provide full life cycle proposal support to help you achieve your contracting goals. For more information call us toll-free at   877-228-9440

• One-click import of opportunity data from public sources (e.g., FedBizOpps) and subscription services (Centurion, epipeline, FBO, FSI and INPUT®) into a structured format
• Easy download of opportunity data from contract vehicle portals for GWACs and IDIQs
• Management of team members and partners for proposal development
• Automated Team Selection Worksheet, enabling one-click identification of the right bid team across teaming partners
• Pre-built and configurable tools for pipeline evaluation and reporting – from identification to qualification and delivery of the final proposal or task order response
• Workflow automation to support best practice business and proposal development processes
• Pre-developed Shipley-based processes
• Ability to develop unique processes and manage the proposal process through Privia including accountability and reporting.
• Ability to launch standardized workspaces pre-populated with proposal outlines that reflect company best practices
• Document libraries for reusable content, graphics, and logos
• Past performance repository
• Presence detection of internal team members and external partners
• Communication and collaboration tools such as instant messaging, discussion threads and notifications
• Online comment and editing tools with full document version control and audit trails
• Automated project monitoring and reporting on due dates, milestones, tasks and priorities

For more information, call us toll-free at  877-228-9440