Finding a Website Developer
Outline for a Request for Proposal

Generally, a web client presents her needs to potential developers in a Request for Proposal or RFP. The RFP should include:

A. Introduction
Give the developer a brief introduction to your organization, your project schedule, and any rules you have for your bid process (schedule, contact, format, etc.).

B. Project Goals
In clear terms, describe the long- and short-term goals for your website. A statement of your organization's general mission should be included here as well.

C. Evaluation
What kinds of evaluation do you need for your website? Do you want a private access to the site before public launch to make sure it's working properly? Who needs access to the pre-launch site? What kinds of usage reports do you want?

D. User Requirements
List your primary and secondary users, and note if they have any special requirements, technical or otherwise.

E. Graphic Design Requirements
Will your site be based on an existing corporate identity, or will you need an entirely new look? Do you have a lot of illustrations to incorporate? Any other special graphic needs?

F. Functional Requirements
Functional site features are those that require special computer programming, i.e. features that do something rather than just displaying text or images. For example, searchable databases, search engines, and forms are all functional features. What kinds of functional features will your site require?

G. Hosting Requirements
Do you plan on buying your own server to house your website, or do you want someone else to take care of hosting for you? Do you have other hosting needs, such as email, Internet access, or email lists?

H. Content
Give an overview of the content you are developing for the website. How many features are you planning? How many images?

I. Planning
How much help do you want on planning the architecture and navigation for the website?

J. Staffing and Operations Summary
Who will the developer be working with throughout the site development process? What kind of staff do you have to maintain the site once it's up?

K. Promotion
Give an overview on how you will promote the site, and how (if at all) you want the developer involved.

L. Summary of Items to Include in Estimate

M. Attachments you may want to include:

1. Site features list

2. User scenarios: A profile of each of your primary and secondary user types. Give each a name and dream up a scenario for how that user will browse through your site.

3. Organizational brochures