Draft Request for Proposal(DRFP)
A pre-release version of an RFP issued for industry feedback before the final solicitation, allowing potential offerors to comment on requirements.
Overview
A Draft Request for Proposal (DRFP) is a preliminary version of an RFP released by a contracting agency to solicit industry feedback before issuing the final solicitation. DRFPs allow the government to refine requirements, evaluation criteria, contract structure, and terms based on input from potential offerors, reducing the risk of misaligned expectations and unnecessary protests after the final RFP is released.
Why It Matters in GovCon
DRFPs represent a critical opportunity for contractors to shape the final solicitation. Thoughtful, well-reasoned comments on a DRFP can influence requirements, evaluation criteria, and contract structure in ways that better align with a contractor's strengths. Ignoring DRFPs means accepting whatever the government decides without input — a missed strategic opportunity in competitive procurements.
Key Details
- Purpose: Allows the government to receive industry feedback on draft requirements, terms, and evaluation criteria before finalizing the solicitation.
- Comments: Offerors submit written comments identifying concerns, ambiguities, or suggestions; the government is not obligated to accept any comments.
- Timeline: DRFPs are typically issued weeks to months before the final RFP, with a defined comment period (often 15-30 days).
- No Commitment: Responding to a DRFP does not obligate a company to submit a proposal on the final RFP.
- Industry Days: DRFPs are often accompanied by industry days or pre-solicitation conferences for additional dialogue.
How GovCon Data Can Help
GovCon Data tracks DRFPs alongside final solicitations, alerting contractors to upcoming opportunities early enough to provide meaningful input and begin capture planning.
Related Terms
- Request for Proposal (RFP)
- Request for Information (RFI)
- Sources Sought Notice
- Pre-Solicitation Conference
More Solicitations Terms
A procurement approach where the government selects the offer that provides the greatest overall benefit, considering factors beyond just price.
The group of offerors selected by the government as having a reasonable chance of being awarded the contract, based on initial proposal evaluations.
A solicitation method where the government awards a contract to the lowest-priced responsive, responsible bidder through sealed bidding.
A source selection method where the contract is awarded to the lowest-priced offeror whose proposal meets all technical requirements.
A document that describes required contract outcomes and performance standards rather than prescribing how the work should be done.
A pre-solicitation document where the government seeks industry input on requirements, capabilities, and market conditions before issuing a formal solicitation.
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