In this episode of Talk Commerce, I had the pleasure of speaking with Phillip Jackson from Future Commerce. We delved into the often-overlooked, but critically important world of Request for Proposals (RFPs) within the ecommerce landscape. Phillip and his team at Future Commerce have released a new report called “The Honest Truth,” and it tackles the unspoken realities of the RFP process – a topic that’s often shrouded in a bit of a charade, as Phillip pointed out.
The RFP Charade: A Look Behind the Curtain
Phillip and I agree that the RFP process can feel like a bit of a game. It’s often the case that merchants and buyers already have a good idea of who they want to work with. This isn’t always about cutting corners, but rather about streamlining the process. I’ve seen this firsthand over my many years in the ecommerce space, often finding that RFPs serve more as a formality than a true comparison of vendors.
I think it’s a really crucial point that Phillip highlights in the report. It challenges the traditional view of the RFP process and invites us to consider how it could be improved. It is a great reminder for agencies to build strong relationships and demonstrate their value in more meaningful ways.
RFPs and the Rise of AI
One of the most fascinating takeaways from our conversation was the increasing role of AI in RFP processes. Phillip mentioned that agencies are already leveraging AI to generate proposals and that even the buyers are using AI to manage the entire process. It is truly the beginning of a shift, as Phillip noted that the two systems aren’t really talking to each other yet.
This is a trend that I’m watching closely and something I believe will continue to evolve. It made me ponder how the future of agency work could look in a world where AI increasingly automates RFPs. We’re moving towards a future where business needs can be directly translated into solutions, which could lead to greater efficiency and connection. I’m curious to see what that will ultimately mean for both agencies and the companies looking to hire them.
The Future of RFPs & Agency Relationships
The question of who you know versus what you know is definitely a factor in RFP processes. However, Phillip’s report indicates that trust is a major factor in this process. I was really struck by how the data suggested that everyone is a little unsure who they can trust in an RFP.
This resonated with me because I’ve always emphasized the importance of building relationships. I believe that building genuine connections with clients and partners is essential for long-term success. It’s not just about landing a project, it’s about having a long-lasting partnership that benefits everyone involved.
Final Thoughts: Navigating the Changing Landscape
This discussion with Phillip Jackson about the honest truths of RFPs within ecommerce provided a unique perspective on an often-overlooked topic. It’s clear that AI is transforming the way agencies and companies interact, potentially changing the very nature of the RFP process.
I encourage you to listen to the full podcast episode and to explore Future Commerce’s report for a deeper dive into these insights. The world of ecommerce is in constant flux, and it’s vital to stay informed about trends that are shaping the landscape.
I hope you found this blog post informative and helpful! If you have any questions or insights about RFPs or the changing ecommerce environment, I encourage you to join the conversation in the comments section below.
And don’t forget to subscribe to the Talk Commerce podcast to stay up-to-date on the latest ecommerce insights!
