Request for Solutions: Anatomy of an RFS

If you’re competing for opportunities through an Other Transaction Authority (OTA) consortium, chances are you’ve encountered a Request for Solutions (RFS). An RFS outlines everything you need to know about an upcoming project, from requirements and deadlines for teaming opportunities to evaluation criteria.

Understanding the RFS anatomy helps you prepare stronger proposals, avoid missed opportunities, and position your organization for success. Here’s a breakdown of the process to see what an RFS is, how it works, and where NSTXL helps you get ahead.

Coming Soon Notice

The process begins with a coming soon notice, which signals that a new project is being proposed. This early notification gives you time to assess your capabilities, start conversations with potential partners, and prepare questions before the RFS officially releases.

Teaming and Awareness Events

Once a coming soon notice is out, NSTXL provides members with access to awareness and teaming events designed to help you get involved early:

• Innovator NETWORX – A structured networking event that helps you find and connect with potential teammates.
• Industry Days – Larger events where you can hear directly from government representatives and industry peers.

These touchpoints ensure you’re not just reacting to an RFS but actively building the connections and strategies you need to compete.

RFS Posting

The sponsoring government office releases the full project details in the official Request for Solutions. This document outlines technical requirements, proposal instructions, evaluation criteria, and deadlines. Reading and understanding the posting in detail is the foundation of a strong proposal.

RFS Questions Deadline

Every RFS includes a question deadline, which allows you to submit clarifying questions. This is your chance to get the necessary information before finalizing your proposal.

Government Response to RFS Questions

After the question deadline, the government provides answers to all submitted questions. These responses are shared with every participant, leveling the playing field and often offering additional clarity that can strengthen your proposal.

Project TALX

Once the final RFS has been released, Project TALX is hosted. During this live event, the government reviews project details and requirements, and hosts a Q&A session where additional questions on the project can be submitted and answered live.

Any additional questions that cannot be answered during the live event are answered and posted to the project’s opportunity page. This is the final opportunity for innovators to submit questions and receive a response.

Proposals Submission Deadline

The proposal submission deadline is firm. Late or incomplete submissions are often disqualified. NSTXL helps members stay on top of these deadlines and ensures you have the resources to submit complete, compliant proposals.

Down-Select

Sometimes, the government uses a down-select process, where only the strongest proposals move forward. This step allows the government to focus on the most promising solutions while encouraging members to submit their best work.

Evaluation

During the evaluation phase, the government reviews proposals against the criteria laid out in the RFS. Clear, complete, and well-aligned proposals stand out here.

Award Notice

The process concludes with an award notice, which formalizes the project award under the DoW Other Transaction Authority. For winners, this marks the start of delivering innovative solutions to support the warfighter.

The government will notify the awardees that they have been chosen for the project, and an email will be sent to NSTXL members to let them know the project has been awarded.

Become an NSTXL Member and Build Stronger Proposals

Understanding the anatomy of an RFS is key to competing effectively. By knowing each step in the RFS timeline, you can prepare stronger proposals and maximize your chances of success.

As an NSTXL member, you’ll gain access to the teaming events, resources, and support you need to stand out at every stage of the process. Explore current and upcoming opportunities and see how NSTXL membership helps you build smarter, stronger proposals.