This is a Request for Proposals. Please read this post thoroughly prior to submitting your proposal.

Please submit your proposal in a PDF by December 8, 2023, to Deanna Wilson at dwilson@ahint.com.

Introduction and Background:

The National Organization for Research Development Professionals (NORDP) invites experienced facilitators and consulting firms to submit proposals for facilitation services to assist in developing a roadmap for the implementation of high-level strategic objectives set by our board of directors. We are seeking qualified professionals with a proven track record in facilitating strategic planning and roadmap development. Significant experience with volunteer and member-driven organizations is required. Additionally, NORDP is requesting responses from those with experience working with Institutions of Higher Education.

NORDP is the professional association representing and serving research development professionals. Research Development encompasses a set of strategic, catalytic, and capacity-building activities that advance research, especially in higher education. Research Development professionals help researchers become more successful communicators, grant proposal writers, and advocates for their research. They help researchers bring new ideas to life. Research Development professionals also serve their institutions. They create services and resources that transcend disciplinary and administrative barriers and create programs to spur discovery. NORDP fosters a culture of inclusive excellence by actively promoting and supporting diversity, inclusion, and equity in all its forms to expand our worldview, enrich our work, and elevate our profession.

NORDP currently has over 1,300 members and has benefited from exponential organic growth since its creation in 2010. The results of the implementation of this roadmap are intended to make necessary strategic changes to the association to allow for continued sustainable growth of not only the organization but also the research development profession.

The selected facilitator will have access to the NORDP board, committees, members, and other key stakeholders as well as data from the 2022 Climate Survey, 2023 Membership Survey, and 2023 high-level organizational assessment.

NORDP is looking for a facilitator who will prioritize inclusivity and transparency in the road map creation process with an emphasis on consensus building.

Scope of Work and Deliverables:

The selected facilitator(s) will be responsible for the following tasks:

1. Collaborate with our team to understand and clarify the high-level strategic objectives set by the board.
2. Lead strategic roadmap development sessions with key stakeholders and volunteers.
3. Guide discussions, capture input, and facilitate consensus-building around the roadmap.
4. Compile and synthesize input to create a comprehensive strategic roadmap document that includes an implementation outline or plan.
5. Provide ongoing support and guidance to volunteers tasked with implementing the roadmap.
6. Offer expertise in roadmap development best practices and strategic planning.

The selected facilitator will provide a deliverable to the board of directors that addresses the following

1. Recommendations to the board regarding the strategic vision guidelines provided to the facilitator based on stakeholder feedback
2. A strategic roadmap document that includes an implementation outline and key milestones

Proposal Submission Guidelines:

Proposal Format: Proposals should be submitted in electronic format (PDF) and include the following sections:

1. Cover Letter: Briefly introduce your firm, team, and your interest in this project.
2. Company Profile: Describe your organization's background, relevant experience, and qualifications.
3. Proposed Approach: Outline your approach to facilitating the roadmap development process.
4. Project Timeline: Provide a proposed timeline for completing the project.
5. Budget: Include a detailed budget that specifies all costs associated with facilitation services.
6. References: Include a minimum of three references from past clients or projects.

Proposals are limited to 20 pages, single-spaced, submitted in PDF.

Submission Deadline: Proposals must be received by Friday, December 8, 2023, at 5:00 pm Eastern Time.

Submission Address: Please email your proposals to dwilson@ahint.com with the subject line "Strategic Roadmapping RFP - [Your Company Name]."

Evaluation Criteria:

Proposals will be evaluated based on the following criteria:

1. Relevant Experience and Qualifications, including experience with member-driven and volunteer-based organizations and Institutions of Higher Education
2. Proposed Approach and Methodology
3. Project Timeline and Feasibility
4. Budget and Cost Effectiveness
5. References and Client Testimonials

Terms and Conditions:

1. NORDP reserves the right to reject any or all proposals received.
2. NORDP may request additional information or clarification from proposers.
3. The selected facilitator(s) will be required to sign a contract outlining project details, deliverables, and payment terms.

Timeline:

    Proposal Submission Deadline: December 8, 2023

    Proposal Evaluation Period: December 11 – 22, 2023

    Notification of Selected Proposer: December 28, 2023

    Target Project Commencement: January 2024

    Target Project Conclusion: April 1, 2024

Thank you for your interest in working with NORDP. We look forward to receiving your proposals.

About National Organization for Research Development Professionals

NORDP was established in 2010 as part of a grassroots movement to build a community of Research Development professionals driven to enhance the research enterprise at their institutions. The organization grew from an informal network of individuals engaged in research development activities at universities and research institutions across the United States and is now more than 1,300 members strong, representing a diverse set of institutions and sectors, and including RD professionals from multiple countries from around the globe. Beginning in 2010, NORDP has held an annual conference that brings together its members and others—and from these conferences, the organization has developed new initiatives, new strategic partnerships and new forms of knowledge.

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