Is your RFP or SOW unclear?

Is your Lawncare RFP or SOW unclear?

As you get ready for Spring and send out the next RFP/SOW for the lawncare, have you reviewed the specifications you are asking for recently? It may be the reason the prices are coming back are “all over” and you can’t conduct a true comparison.

If your landscape RFP or SOW is hard to understand what is the cost to you and your team? Did you know that if either is unclear the typical result could be misunderstanding of your service expectations, trying to make “apples to oranges” comparison of the bids you do receive, less than stellar results and more. All leading to potentially additional expenses and "double the work" as you may need to rebid the work, pay for the missing services due to the confusing service?expectations, possible legal reviews, replacement costs, not to mention the effect on satisfaction scores and more. These are a few hidden costs that will catchup with you.

With a confusing or unclear SOW/RFP you probably have experienced the following:

Quotes being too low (low bid): Respondents price low and make assumptions that they will cover any “confusing” areas with additional charges for services not defined. More expense!

Quotes being too high: Other respondents “bid high” to be sure they cover their costs or risk for any situation that is not spelled out but know the expectation will be there. Over budget!

No Bids: Not receiving any responses or less than you were expecting. If the SOW is too confusing many companies may just pass, wait for you to come to them after poor results etc. More expense!

With a confusing or unclear SOW/RFP what seems clear, may really be unclear.

A few quick examples:

SOW reads: Lime – Include Lime application.

Seems clear. However here is what might be unclear. How many lbs. per sq. ft. for the lime(rate)? How much is needed? What is the current Ph level? ?Is a soil sample needed? Etc.

All of this will make a difference in response, pricing and results.

SOW reads: Include insect control for the lawn.

Seems clear. However here is what might be unclear. What pest needs to be targeted? If any? What is the material? How many applications? Is it the right program?

All of this will make a difference in response, pricing and results.

SOW reads: Annuals Spring and Fall

Seems clear. However here is what might be unclear. What type of annuals? What size? Is the initial watering included? Pine fines? Fertilizer? Prep?

All of this will make a difference in response, pricing, and results.

So, you can see that details do matter if you want a true comparison of the best value and expense management of your lawncare spend. One simple step can help, take one more look at the SOW or RFP you are working with can it be clearly understood? ?If it can be, your decision and results will be clearer as well.

One more step. When you review the lawncare or science portion of your SOW, fertilization, weed control etc. let’s talk, we can help take this worry away. As your lawncare partner TruGreen Commercial Services will focus on the science side of lawncare, so you don’t have to. We can help.

Let’s Talk.

E.J. Martinez

National and Strategic Account Director

TruGreen Commercial Services

[email protected]