We recently had a prospect ask what they needed to consider as part of their taxonomy RFP. Here are some things to include:
- Specific approaches to taxonomy development: steps for term extraction, approaches for automated and manual content audit procedures
- Taxonomy testing: What are the methods by which the taxonomy will be tested prior to deployment? What usability tests would be performed and what data would be collected?
- Metrics: How will search engine and web tracking metrics be used in deriving the taxonomy?
- Integration with content strategy: By what process will taxonomy be integrated with content strategy and content management systems?
- Integration with search strategy: How will the taxonomy be leveraged and integrated with search tools and mechanisms?
- Success factors: What are the critical success factors for taxonomy project success? How will you ensure that these are met?
- Project risks: What are the typical and atypical project risks? Provide a risk mitigation plan for these.
- Taxonomy operationalization: List clients for whom you have operationalized the taxonomy. What is the process by which you will ensure proper handoff of the taxonomy?
- Organizational buy in: How do you achieve organizational buy in? How are senior managers brought into the process?
- Hand off to technical teams: How is the taxonomy delivered for technical implementation?
- Tools used: What tools do you use in taxonomy development and testing?
- Support model: What kind of support is provided for the taxonomy process after project completion?
- Current or pending litigation: Is your company involved in litigation? If yes, please explain
- Has your company ever defaulted on a contract or been sued for failure to comply with contract terms? If yes, please explain
- Has your company ever failed to complete any work awarded? If yes, please explain
- How do you propose that our company should hold your organization accountable for its performance in this program?