Writing the Green RFP

American Institute of Architects (AIA) Committee on the Environment. This guide is available free of charge as a series of Web pages and downloadable PDF files. Visit

www.aia.org/cote_rfps.

Writing the Green RFP presents the basics of the RFP for design services and addresses some considerations unique to the green RFP.

The guide breaks a typical RFP into its components, explaining how to inculcate green intentions into its language most effectively. The guide asserts that green goals deserve to be addressed from the get-go. The product introduction should “state the client’s core mission, identify how sustainable design relates to that mission, and reference other relevant statements about the motive for pursuing a sustainable design project.” Sample language illustrates how specific suggestions can be incorporated into an RFP.

One area that could be stronger is the discussion of evaluation methodology. The guide cautions that “requiring firms to show LEED-certified buildings of the same type or scale as the project in question may result in a low number of responses.” Instead, the report suggests requiring familiarity with LEED or design-team participation by LEED-accredited professionals. But, given the relative ease of gaining LEED accreditation, those credentials may not be a meaningful screening tool for designers and consultants.

The guide is complemented by a few evolving resources. Currently, 16 sample RFPs and RFQs, from Oberlin College, Battery Park City, and the U.S. Navy, among others, are reprinted in full. A section called “Voices of Experience” quotes clients and consultants who have found success in green RFPs and tells stories of lessons learned. Frequently asked questions conclude the guide. Already helpful, the guide, and these chapters especially, will grow over time. COTE welcomes feedback and contributions.

– JB