Michael Asner helps government officials (usually auditors or procurement executives) and lawyers deal with procurement and request for proposal (RFP) issues. He also helps private-sector companies understand the RFP process and how to create effective proposals.

For the last 20 years, he has provided consulting services, published books and articles, and offered workshops to governments and government agencies throughout North America and the Caribbean.

On May 6, Asner will offer a one-day workshop, "Bullet-Proofing Your RFPs for State Agencies," in Denver, at the Colorado State Purchasing Department. The following is a brief checklist of RFP lessons that Asner offers in his one-day RFP course.

Critical RFP lessons …

1. Whenever possible, avoid using RFPs — they are problematic.

2. Never write an RFP for the first time — that's when you make all the errors.

3. Never start with a blank piece of paper — find examples, templates and models.

4. Always invest in learning about best practices — a great rate of return!

5. Recognize that your problems are NOT unique — they exist everywhere.

6. Remember, you own the process not the content — so get some help.

7. Always have an RFP gatekeeper to review the final RFP.

On May 18, Asner will deliver the keynote address to the 12th Annual State Purchasing Forum in Albany, N.Y., at the Empire State Plaza Convention Center. Go to this Office of Government Services site for more information.

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