Implementing a Review Process for Proposals with a Small Team

Let’s delve into effective proposal review strategies. For small teams, traditional color team reviews like those in the Shipley model (Pink, Red, Green, and Gold Teams) may not be feasible due to limited personnel. However, there are ways to adapt and still ensure quality in your proposal submissions. 

Adapting the Review Process

1. Stay Focused on Priorities: It's essential to be selective about the RFPs you choose to pursue. With limited resources, a small team cannot afford to spread itself too thin. Concentrate on opportunities where you have the strongest chance of success.
2. Ensure Compliance: Non-compliance is a common pitfall that can lead to disqualification, wasting all the effort put into a proposal. Assign a detail-oriented team member to create and manage a compliance matrix. This step is crucial and should never be overlooked.
3. Customize the Review Process: While the Shipley Method is a valuable guide, feel free to modify it to suit your team's size and workflow. You might only conduct Red, Green, and Gold Team reviews, for instance. The key is to adapt the process to ensure a quality end product.
4. Designate a Proposal Manager: Even in a small team, it's important to have one person overseeing the proposal process. This individual can ensure that deadlines are met and that the proposal remains cohesive, even if they are also contributing content. 

5. Utilize an Effective Outline: Incorporate sections of the RFP directly into your proposal outline. This approach makes writing and reviewing easier, particularly when resources are limited. If you have a small writing team, have them review each other's sections. Cross-referencing with the RFP sections can make this process more efficient.

Managing the proposal process with a small team during the procurement season is undoubtedly challenging, but with careful planning and adaptation, it's possible to produce high-quality proposals. Stay focused, be selective, and tailor the review process to fit your team's unique strengths and limitations. Remember, the goal is not just to submit a proposal but to submit one that has a strong chance of success.