For larger or multi-site connectivity buys, a request for proposal (RFP) gets carriers competing on the same terms \xE2\x80\x94 which means better, comparable bids. Here's how to write one that works.
Why an RFP Helps
Without a spec, every carrier quotes something slightly different and you can't compare. A good RFP defines exactly what you need so bids line up and price differences are real.
What to Include
- Locations and addresses \xE2\x80\x94 every site to be served.
- Service type and bandwidth per site (dedicated vs. broadband, speed, CIR).
- SLA requirements \xE2\x80\x94 uptime, MTTR, latency targets.
- Redundancy needs \xE2\x80\x94 which sites need failover or diverse paths.
- Term and pricing format \xE2\x80\x94 ask for MRC, NRC, and any construction costs broken out.
- Timeline \xE2\x80\x94 installation and go-live dates.
- Support and management expectations.
Make pricing comparable: require carriers to break out monthly (MRC), one-time (NRC), and construction separately \xE2\x80\x94 otherwise a low MRC can hide a big install cost. See reading a quote.
You Don't Have to Run It Alone
A broker effectively runs an RFP across carriers for you \xE2\x80\x94 standardizing the ask, collecting bids, and normalizing them so you compare fairly. We do this at no cost. See what a broker does and our services.
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