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RFQ vs RFP: Understanding the differences

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RFQ vs RFP: Understanding the differences.

Learn how RFQs and RFPs help businesses compare vendors, gather pricing, and choose the best solutions for their needs.

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Hand holding cards labelled 'RFQ' and 'RFP' with 'vs' in between, comparing the two procurement processes.

Published by Adobe Acrobat India on 4 April 2025

Work Management, Process & Scale, Digital Transformation

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What is an RFQ (request for quote)?

What is an RFP (request for proposal)?

What are the key differences between an RFQ and an RFP?

Can you use both an RFQ and an RFP?

How do digital tools simplify RFQs and RFPs?

Frequently asked questions

Understanding the right procurement document to use can make or break your sourcing process. Whether you need to compare vendor prices quickly or seek comprehensive project proposals, knowing when to use a request for quote (RFQ) versus a request for proposal (RFP) is crucial.

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What is an RFQ (request for quote)?

An RFQ, or request for quote, is a document you send to suppliers when you know exactly what you need and want to compare prices. It’s mainly used when buying products, equipment, or services that are easy to define and compare.

When to use an RFQ:

You need a price comparison for a specific product or service.
You know exactly what you want and don’t need input from vendors.
You’re choosing based mostly on price.

Example: You need 100 office chairs with specific features. You send an RFQ to several suppliers asking for their best price.

What is an RFP (request for proposal)?

An RFP, or request for proposal, is used when your needs are more complex, and you want vendors to suggest the best solution. It asks for more than just pricing — you also want details on how they’ll complete the project or provide the service.

When to use an RFP:

You’re unsure exactly what you need and want vendors to offer solutions.
You’re hiring for a project or service, not just buying a product.
You need to compare experience, skills, and approaches - not just price.

Example: You need a marketing campaign for a new product. You send an RFP asking agencies to explain how they would approach the project, their pricing, and examples of past work.

A lady offers a price to be entered into a calculator from another vendor.

What are the key differences between an RFQ and an RFP?

While both help you gather information from vendors, RFQs and RFPs are used in different situations:

RFQ: Focuses on price and is used when you know what you need.
RFP: Focuses on solutions and is used when you need expert input.

Here’s a simple way to think about it:

RFQ = "Tell me your price."

RFP = "Tell me how you’ll solve my problem."

Can you use both an RFQ and an RFP?

Using both an RFQ and an RFP together can be a smart approach to make sure you get the best solution and price for your project. Here’s how it typically works:

1. Start with an RFP (request for proposal):

When you know what problem you need to solve but aren’t sure about the best approach or vendor, you start with an RFP.
This allows potential vendors to submit detailed proposals explaining how they would meet your needs, including their methods, timelines, and pricing estimates.
You can compare different solutions, evaluate vendor expertise, and see which approach fits your business best.

2. Shortlist the best vendors:

After reviewing the RFP responses, you narrow your list down to the top vendors who seem best suited for your project.
You may have a clearer picture of your preferred solution and a better understanding of the specific products or services required.

3. Follow up with an RFQ (request for quote):

Now that you know exactly what you need, you can issue an RFQ to the shortlisted vendors.
An RFQ is focused on getting precise pricing for the defined scope of work or product requirements.
Vendors compete on cost, and you can easily compare their quotes.

4. Make an informed decision:

By combining the RFP and RFQ process, you get the best of both worlds: innovative solutions and competitive pricing.
This approach reduces risk, ensures clarity on what you’re paying for, and helps you select a vendor who offers both quality and value.
Using RFPs and RFQs together can streamline your procurement process, give you confidence in your vendor choice, and help you stay on budget.

How do digital tools simplify RFQs and RFPs?

Managing RFQs and RFPs can be time-consuming, but digital tools like Adobe Acrobat Pro can make the process easier:

Create reusable templates for RFQs and RFPs.
Collect vendor responses digitally.
Use e-signatures to speed up contract approvals.
Store and track all documents securely in one place.

Frequently asked questions.

Is following the RFQ or RFP process always necessary?

If you already know a trusted vendor, you might not need a formal RFQ or RFP. However, using these processes can often lead to better prices and results.

How long should I allocate for the RFQ or RFP process?

An RFQ can often be completed in a few days, while an RFP might take a few weeks, depending on how complex the project is.

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Disclaimer: This article is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or professional advice. While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, laws and regulations in India can change frequently. Therefore, you should consult with a qualified legal professional to ensure that the information is applicable to your specific situation. Adobe disclaims any liability for any actions taken based on the content of this article. The materials provided are on an “as-is” basis without any warranties, either express or implied, including but not limited to warranties of accuracy, completeness, or fitness for a particular purpose.

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