Request for qualifications (RFQual)

A first stage that asks suppliers to prove their experience, capacity and certifications before any pricing. Those who pass go on a shortlist or an approved list.

Also called: RFSQ, Request for supplier qualifications

Related terms

Pre-qualification

Getting checked and approved before contracts are offered. Firms that pre-qualify join a list, panel or framework and are then invited to compete for the work that comes later.

Supplier list

Any list of pre-approved suppliers a buyer invites to compete, such as a framework, panel, standing offer or vendor roster. Many IT contracts are only open to firms already on a list.