Managing the RFP Process of Government ICT Projects from a Discursive Perspective

E-government projects which utilize Information and Communication Technology (ICT) to enhance public service delivery and improve governmental efficiency, hold significant promise. However, the success rate of these initiatives, particularly in developing countries such as Sri Lanka, remains alarmingly low. A key factor contributing to this high failure rate is the inadequacy of the Request for Proposal (RFP) process, which often results in budget overruns and project delays due to incomplete or inaccurate requirements. This research explores the pivotal role of RFPs in the successful implementation of e-government projects. Using a mixed-method approach, the study incorporates three case studies, and a Likert scale questionnaire prepared based on case study outcomes. The data for quantitative analysis was collected from questionnaires and quantitative data analysis was done using SPSS software. The findings from data highlight the critical importance of a well-crafted RFP in mitigating budgetary issues and ensuring precise requirement specifications. The study culminates in the development of ten practical guidelines aimed at enhancing the RFP preparation process, thereby increasing the likelihood of success for future e-government projects. Adopting these guidelines will enable government organizations to prepare more effective RFPs, contributing significantly to the overall success of their projects. While the guidelines are broadly applicable, slight adjustments may be necessary depending on the specific nature of the project. These guidelines offer valuable insights for both industry professionals and policymakers in the e-government sector.