Procurement teams often write an RFP because it’s on the annual calendar, and there may be pressure to move quickly. But they don’t always work side by side with the utility or department that needs the project. Consultants then respond to what’s written in the RFP. If the scope wasn’t written to address the issues, the proposal won’t address them either, resulting in plans that are broader than required, more expensive than necessary, and harder to implement. A targeted phased approach starts with procurement and sets realistic expectations for project elements and the timeline to project success. Consultants bid more specifically, solutions get sharper, and the final plan is easier to execute.