CHAP 10

1. 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.

2. 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

3. 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.

4. 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.

5. 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.

6. 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.

7. 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.

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

• Introduction
• Background
• Authorization
• Budget

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

• Staffing
• Authorization
• Budget
• Proposal

10. 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.