Workforce solutions RFPs are meant to bring clarity, confidence and consistency to complex buying decisions. However, our research shows many procurement and workforce leaders are still navigating a process that has not kept pace with changes to the workforce, with only 30% stating they feel very confident their latest process identified the right partner.
The research shows many organisations are running substantial RFP cycles, yet buyers still struggle with like-for-like comparison, supplier differentiation and validating capability. 43% struggle to compare suppliers on equivalent terms and 38% find it difficult to differentiate between them.
Traditional RFPs have relied on written submissions as the main measure of supplier capability, but that approach is no longer seen as enough to reveal how a partner will perform in practice.
Data, in-person interaction, technology demonstrations and references from existing clients are the leading measures of supplier capability and should feature prominently and not as just an addition to a report. In fact, less than 10% stated that written responses were a measure of capability, so why is it currently such a massive aspect of so many RFPs?
These findings – as well as the rest of the data in our report - point to a need for a clear blueprint for success: a more focused, evidence-led RFP process that helps buyers make confident, future-ready decisions.
Strengthening requirements, improving supplier comparison and placing greater emphasis on proof, transparency, people and outcomes will create a process that is easier to navigate.
Avoiding the leading frustrations such as generic or overly long answers, or lack of transparency and data, will make the RFP process more meaningful for stakeholders and better equipped to identify the right workforce solutions partner.
Download the full report to see the research, insights and practical blueprint for improving your next workforce solutions RFP.
What the report covers
The report explores where today’s workforce solutions RFPs create value, where they fall short, and how buyers can build greater confidence into supplier selection. It covers:
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How organisations are running workforce solutions RFPs today
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The biggest challenges affecting comparison, confidence and decision-making
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Common frustrations with supplier responses, from generic answers to pricing opacity
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The capabilities that matter most now, including AI, automation and workforce analytics
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A practical blueprint for creating a fully trusted RFP process
In 2026, a traditional text-heavy RFP is rarely enough to get a true picture of a workforce solution providers’ true capability.
Who should read this report?
Procurement, HR, talent acquisition and workforce strategy leaders involved in buying or evaluating workforce solutions, especially those planning or reviewing an MSP, RPO, services procurement, direct sourcing or blended tender.
Download the full report to benchmark your current RFP approach and identify where your process can be made sharper, clearer and more effective.
