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Acronymsaka: Request for Qualificationsaka: qualification questionnaire

RFQ (Request for Qualifications)

In Plain English

A document asking companies to submit their qualifications before being invited to bid or propose.

Definition

A Request for Qualifications is a procurement solicitation that asks companies to submit evidence of their qualifications, experience, and capabilities without including a price proposal. RFQs are used to prequalify contractors or design firms before inviting them to submit proposals or bids, shortlisting the most qualified firms for the next procurement phase. On public projects, RFQs are commonly the first step in a two-phase qualifications-based selection process.

Example

The transit authority issues an RFQ for the $500 million rail extension project, shortlisting the three highest-rated design-build teams before issuing the RFP.

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