Request for Proposal (RFP) for the Creation of an Accessible, Responsive Website for rainbowchamber.org

Submit proposals in PDF format to: [email protected] (subject line: Website RFP)

The Rainbow Chamber of Commerce Silicon Valley is seeking proposals from qualified website development companies to create an accessible and responsive website for rainbowchamber.org. The purpose of the website is to provide information about the organization, its services, events, and resources, and to serve as a platform for engaging with members and the LGBTQ+ community. The website should be visually appealing, user-friendly, and accessible to individuals with disabilities. The content of the site will essentially remain the same, but we’re open to ideas.

  1. Project Scope: The selected vendor will be responsible for the following:
  • Design and development of a fully accessible, responsive website based on agreed-upon wireframes and specifications.
  • Integration of content management system (CMS) (like WordPress) for easy content updates and management.
  • Implementation of search engine optimization (SEO) best practices.
  • Integration of social media sharing capabilities.
  • Inclusion of all current content on the site, adapted for new design
  • Integration of Chambermaster (current member management system) that includes:
    • Integration of event management and registration system.
    • Incorporation of a member directory with search functionality.
    • Integration of a newsletter subscription feature.
    • Implementation of analytics to track website performance.
  • Provision of training and documentation for website maintenance.
  1. Technical Requirements: The website should meet the following technical specifications:
  • Fully responsive design optimized for desktop, tablet, and mobile devices.
  • Compliance with web accessibility standards, including WCAG 2.1 Level AA.
  • Optimized performance.
  • Compatibility with major web browsers (Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Edge).
  • Integration of a secure SSL certificate for data encryption.
  • Implementation of responsive web design techniques.
  • Cross-browser compatibility testing.
  • Integration of Google Analytics for tracking website performance.
  • Website host may remain or change based on technical needs. Hosting details will be handled separately and is not part of this RFP.
  1. Design and User Experience: The website should have the following design and user experience considerations:
  • Clean, modern, and visually appealing design that reflects the organization’s branding.
  • Intuitive and user-friendly navigation.
  • Consistent and accessible color schemes and typography.
  • Clear and legible content layout.
  • Integration of multimedia elements (images, videos) where appropriate.
  • Integration of a search function for easy content discovery.
  • Clear calls-to-action to encourage user engagement.
  1. Project Timeline: The estimated timeline for the project is as follows:
  • Proposal Submission Deadline: August 11, 2023
  • Submit proposals in PDF format to: [email protected] (subject line: Website RFP)
  • Vendor Selection: August 20, 2023
  • Kick-off Meeting: On or before first week of September
  • Website Development: September 2023
  • Content Population: September
  • User Acceptance Testing: September
  • Website Launch: On or before October 1, 2023

Note: The timeline is subject to change based on mutual agreement between the selected vendor and Rainbow Chamber of Commerce.

  1. Proposal Submission: Interested vendors are requested to submit their proposals, including the following information:
  • Company profile and background.
  • Overview of relevant experience in website development, especially for non-profit organizations.
  • Description of the proposed approach and methodology.
  • Proposed project timeline.
  • Cost estimate for the entire project, including any ongoing maintenance or support fees. Note that we welcome special consideration for our non-profit status and competitive pricing as a show of support and respect for our community.
  • Examples of previous work and client references.
  • Any additional relevant information.
  1. Evaluation Criteria: Proposals will be evaluated based on the following criteria:
  • Compliance with technical requirements and web accessibility standards.
  • Demonstrated experience in developing accessible and responsive websites.
  • Quality and creativity of design and user experience.
  • Proposed project timeline and methodology.
  • Cost-effectiveness and value for money.
  • References and client testimonials.

Submit proposals to [email protected] (subject line: Website RFP)