When responding to a RFQ, how can a small company compete with a large company for City business?
RFQ responses are evaluated on multiple factors. Some factors enable small firms to compete on an equal basis: approach, quality control, and past performance on schedule and budget. Other factors, such as relevant project experience, may not. Respondents should consider how their team would score on all factors when deciding whether to respond to an RFQ. Sometimes, teaming with a larger or more experienced company may be a good strategy. A smaller company should consider pursuing smaller City projects. For example, on projects under $3 million, rather than advertise a RFQ, GSD may select firms from its files of pre-submitted qualifications and prepare a short list for interviews. While there is no guarantee that a small- to medium-sized firm will be selected using this method, our experienced project managers understand the potential of a smaller company to perform smaller projects in a more responsive and cost-effective manner. Nevertheless, all companies, large and small, should sub
