What Is Proposal Writing?

Proposal writing is one of the most important skills in business and technical writing. Companies write proposals to attract new business, sales clients and projects. Research professionals write proposals to attract funding for further studies. Units of local government and nonprofit organizations write proposals to secure grants for new programs and initiatives.

Function

A proposal aims to persuade the intended audience to do something. Business proposals strive to persuade potential customers to purchase a company's products or services. Other proposals try to persuade the intended audience to fund a new project

Requests for Proposals

Many people write proposals in response to a Request for Proposals, or RFP. Companies, foundations and other organizations send out RFPs when they want to receive proposals for products and services, or applications for funding.

Features

In general, a written proposal should consist of an introduction that summarizes the problem and your proposed solution; a main body that explains the details of what you are proposing; and a conclusion that emphasizes how your solution will benefit your client.

Considerations

Be realistic when estimating a project budget and a schedule for completion, as a client will likely hold you to it.

Size

Proposals can vary in length depending on the type of project or service being proposed. Some proposals are brief and informal, while others are lengthy and detailed.

Resources

• Guide to Proposal Writing