chap 10

Which of the following statements is accurate?

• Proposals are persuasive documents used to solve problems, provide services, or sell equipment.

• Proposals are always solicited.

• Proposals are informative documents used to share problems, identify emerging issues, and categorize available resources for resolution.

• Proposals are developed for external audiences only.

A company might prepare a proposal for which of the following reasons?

• To show its compliance with Homeland Security rules and regulations

• To solicit competitive bids for a new building

• To inform company shareholders of an attempted hostile takeover

• To bid for a contract to retrofit a local bridge

An RFP (request for proposal) can best be defined as

• a document that solicits competitive bids on a project.

• an offer to provide a service, sell equipment, or solve a problem.

• an internal report justifying a request for additional staffing and equipment.

• a persuasive sales presentation emphasizing benefits for the reader.

A business would be most likely to write a request for proposals

• to advertise openings for two sales positions.

• to attract new clients.

• to renovate offices.

• to begin expansion in global markets.

In addition to an introduction, the background information, and the proposal itself, informal or letter proposals often contain

• staffing requirements, a budget, and an authorization request.

• service dates, applicable laws and statutes, and a signed contract.

• a bill for services rendered and a signed contract.

• free prizes and other gimmicks.

You can make the introduction of a proposal more persuasive if you

• explain in great detail how much better you are than your competitors.

• hint at the problem you will solve but avoid explaining the reasons for the proposal.

• remain as vague as possible to keep the reader intrigued.

• provide a 'hook' such as mentioning a remarkable resource available exclusively to the writer.

Which of the following is the best tip to fight writer's block when writing proposals?

• Drink a lot of coffee to make your mind sharp.

• Begin by making a bulleted list of customer wants and needs.

• Make a list of personal benefits you will receive after receiving the contract.

• Type anything because proposals must adhere to deadlines.

In which part of a solicited proposal would you most likely convince your reader that you understand the problem completely?

• Introduction

• Background

• Authorization

• Budget

In which section of an informal proposal would you most likely include a timetable for a project to be completed?

• Staffing

• Authorization

• Budget

• Proposal

What may be included in the staffing section of an informal proposal?

• Credentials and expertise of project leaders

• Size and qualifications of support staff

• Resources such as computer facilities

• All may be included in the staffing section.