Recently we concluded a process with a key client to choose a strategic exhibit partner and build a new exhibit for their domestic trade show program. This was a great process to go through and far more complex than was first envisioned.
We started with the basic request of needing a new exhibit. After much discussion of requirements, procurement regulations and timing and schedule, we chose to follow a process that included a request for information (RFI) followed by a request for proposal (RFP). The process we chose to follow (and which we will document here in a series of posts relating the experience) included these steps:
- The research and writing of a RFI, including the release, selection process and review of received responses.
- The research and writing of a RFP and the selection of recipients and proposed selection process and criteria.
- Choice of a selection team and scoring system.
- Determination of site visits and evaluation of those visits.
- Final presentations.
- Notification and award of the project
- The process after the award.
While this is not an exhaustive look at this program, it, hopefully, will give others embarking on this same path some insight into what they might be getting into (or are already into!).
However you choose to select your next exhibit marketing partner or your next exhibit, consider some or all of these elements before you start. Mapping the process is as important as implementing it.
TTSG
