Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) Practice Exam

How many providers should an RFP be sent to at a minimum?

1. 2

2. 3

3. 4

4. 5

The correct answer is: 3

The correct answer is three providers for a Request for Proposal (RFP). This number strikes a balance between having enough options to compare and maintain a manageable selection process. By sending the RFP to at least three providers, you increase the likelihood of receiving diverse proposals, which can bring different perspectives and options to the table. Having three providers allows for a meaningful comparison of services, pricing, and capabilities. Additionally, it ensures that you're not overly reliant on a single vendor, which could lead to limited options and reduced competitive pricing. Sending out too few proposals may limit your choices, while sending it to too many can complicate the evaluation process. Thus, three is generally seen as the optimal minimum to ensure a competitive and thorough evaluation process.